One Piece Film: Red
Toei Animation
One Piece Film: Red is the 15th theatrical entry in the franchise and one of its most distinctive, centering on Uta — a globally beloved singer revealed to be the adoptive daughter of "Red-Haired" Shanks himself. Uta has kept her identity as Shanks' daughter secret while building a music career, and when she performs a concert on the island of Elegia, the Straw Hats attend — only to discover that Uta's power and unresolved history with Shanks threatens to trap the entire audience in a world of dreams with no hope of return. The film is unique in the One Piece film canon for making music central to both the plot and the emotional experience, with Uta's songs (performed by Ado) becoming genuinely popular tracks in Japan.
Film: Red received the most extensive attention from Eiichiro Oda of any One Piece film, and while technically non-canon, it features sequences and imagery — particularly involving Shanks — that generated enormous debate among fans about what might eventually become canonical lore. The film's exploration of Shanks as a father figure and the political dimensions of his relationship with the World Government add layers to one of One Piece's most mysterious characters. For the soundtrack alone, Film: Red is worth experiencing — Ado's vocal performances are exceptional — and the film's visual spectacle, particularly in its climactic sequences, represents some of the finest theatrical animation the franchise has produced.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is One Piece Film: Red canon?
Officially non-canon, though Oda's heavy involvement and certain Shanks-related elements have led fans to debate which parts might reflect true lore. Treat it as a high-quality, optional side story.
Who sings Uta's songs in Film: Red?
Uta's singing voice is performed by Japanese singer Ado, who provided all of the film's original tracks. The soundtrack became one of the best-selling anime albums in Japan.
When was Film: Red released?
Released August 6, 2022 in Japan. It became the highest-grossing One Piece film ever, breaking the record set by Stampede.
Is Film: Red adapted from the manga?
Oda had significant involvement and created Uta and key story elements, but it is officially non-canonical. Certain Shanks-related elements have sparked debate about what might be semi-canon lore.
What do fans think of Film: Red?
One of the most commercially successful and broadly enjoyed One Piece films. Ado's vocal performance as Uta and the Shanks content were particularly celebrated. The soundtrack became hugely popular in Japan.