One Piece (Season 1, Netflix) - 3/5

This show is a mixed bag in every regard. Sometimes the acting is great, sometimes it’s weak. Some of the episodes are faithful to the source material, some deviate wildly. Some of the setups have great payoffs, some are bungled. Some of the departures from the source material fix plot holes, some create new problems. Because its trying to adapt an enormous amount of source material it often feels rushed, but at the end of the day it’s refreshing to see an adaptation that doesn’t shy away from some of the more outlandish aspects of the source material.

Closest comparison: It’s like Firefly (Season 1) by way of Fullmetal Alchemist (2017).

Setting: Adventure
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Adventure

Cliffhanger - 3/5

This movie is a solid, stock action movie. It’s eminently watchable, with enough of a plot to keep things moving and exciting action to keep the audience engaged. It has a slow start, but once it gets going it doesn’t slow down. There are a few plot contrivances, but they don’t stray too far from the realm of believability and make for an all around fun time.

Closest comparison: It’s like Vertical Limit by way of Rambo II.

Setting: Survival
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Action