I appreciate that Sanji is the one in Water 7 that tells Usopp to do what only he can do; I feel like Sanji more than any of the others understands what it is to be compared to others and thought to be weak, worse to feel that you are yourself.
Such a great lens to look through. Makes me wonder if Oda had something like this in mind for Sanji since the start? Main difference I think of is Sanji also knows (within his family) what he can’t do but his mom is the one (and sis to an extent) what he IS capable of that his brothers and father are not. His road and path allowed him to talk to Zeff like he did because he faced worse odds and overcame them so nobody can tell him he can’t do something. Then he’s faced with Zeff giving up his life as a pirate because he so STRONGLY believed in Sanji. Confronted with that how could Sanji deny that he IS special? Then to be the big fish in a small pond took that seed of confidence and grew it into a mighty tree capable of weathering almost any storm. Whereas Usopp could only tell himself lies after losing both parents. “He must not care why else would he leave?” “I’m not good enough” “I could never do that”. Only to be thrown into a big ocean without ever having had the chance to grow confident… small wonder that despite all he’s done he still feels like he isn’t a Brave Warrior when really he had it in hand since the start. LOVED how Mark recognized that Luffy and Zoro realized he was being more brave in that situation than either of them. They knew they’d be fine (even if they didn’t they still would fight) but Usopp knows (or at least believes) he won’t be fine yet goes out there anyways. While Usopp has flashes of it at times (vs #4 sugar and PH grunts) he needs to realize that the difference he has between him and the other monsters is that they know there are some fights that if you avoid them would be worse than death. When your friend’s pride has been stepped on, when they are in danger, etc. Yet he still hasn’t fully grasped that like on Onigashima: nami vs ulti (Nami just say it! Lie Nami! It’s no good if you’re dead)
@@bjsuitsAs for Oda's plans for Sanji, we can be pretty sure his name and swirly eyebrows were a conscious design. Meaning he was supposed to be a third something, like a third experimantal modified human, and that he was indeed supposed to be a modified human, merged with some devil fruit properties, as indicated by the swirls. We also learn pretty early that he is from North Blue, yet we meet him in the East. I think him being discarded was a plan from the start. Especially since even from the begining he had the tendency to go on solo missions, which plays into his own inscurities (fully on display in Whole Cake Island, so it took a while). So yeah, I do think indeed "Oda had something like this in mind for Sanji since the start". :D
@@ania7930 idk if modified or not was planned I think “part of a set” was but if it was always based on super sentai that could have been just humans putting on raid suits and getting their powers that way (sorta how Sanji was speculated to get his powers via his suit so he smashed it) and the outline was there but not all the details. Idk maybe Oda will reveal all that after it wraps up?
I know right! Now that he said it because... I always loved that fight and how at the beginning it looks like Usopp might actually win. He actually controls the fight UNTIL the point he runs out of traps. The reason why Luffy win is because he has more strength and stamina and powered through Usopp's traps... But as long as Usopp didn't run out, he controlled the battlefield. And I always found that SO impressive... I never even THOUGHT about that we actually never heard his thoughts... that's genius.
It also, like mark said, gives us an idea of how these fights seem from the enemy's pov. We get slowed down a LOT in his thoughts, but these things are happening, thoughts included, at the pace of the Luffy VS Usopp fight more often than not. He's out here blitzing enemies with off the wall tactics and deceptions nonstop. He's definitely a menace.
@@MoonPhantomHonestly I feel like Luffy kind’ve just won for the plot😂 There are several hits Usopp gets in from Egg bombs to tabasco shots and blinding light that target his weaknesses… if it were anyone else in the series (around that time) they wouldn’t just brush it off like nothing imo.
@@bigpurplepops Njah, I think it's pretty clear Luffy was always going to win that fight. The power level was just too big. Usopp controlled the battle until he ran out of plans. But Luffy was ALWAYS the protagonist with a stupid amount of stamina who always keeps getting back up even when defeated. That legit is Luffy's character. Crocodile beat him, Luffy still came back. Enel threw him off the Island, he still came back, Arlong beat him down... Luffy bounced back up. He is a legit rubber boy. He always bounces back up like Rubber and slingshots back, that has been his character since day one and long before this fight took place. So yeah... It was always going to end in a lose for Usopp. And the thing too is... Usopp knew... Usopp KNEW he was going to loose. It wasn't even about winning or loosing, it was about still doing what he could and maintain his pride. And heck THAT is in line with Usopp's characters too, he actually has entered a lot of fights he knew he couldn't possible win, even in his original introduction he did it, he he knew he couldn't win, he entered the fight anyway and did his best... yes his lost, but his pride was intact. And later again we see the SAME thing with Trebol. He KNEW that if he entered battle he was going to lose... But he did it anyway. That's always who he was. And that circles back when he talks to the Samurais who are about to commit sepuku because they know they can't win this battle and Usopp is just like. "Hey... You know you can't win, but what sort of dumb excuse is that? I go into battles I can't win ALL the time. You losers." Seriously I love Usopp chewing out these Samurais so much and is kind of shocked Mark didn't bring it up. Also is a nice circle as Usopp stepped in deeply admiring these "Fearless Samurais." and then ended up being the one nearly loosing respect for them and giving them a good chewing.
What works about Usopp for me is how much of his stuff comes from failing upwards/ working smarter and not harder. He is 9/10 times well in over his head, but he’s been this since the start and has always carried his weight in his own unique way. A strategic fighter amongst people like Luffy, Zoro and Franky is such an interesting concept and I just wish Oda used him more in the ladder half of the story
I won't really say Usopp fails upward... Buggy does. All of Buggy's victories are total accidents, which makes it hilarious. Usopp's... are not... yeah he loses fights but... he is always a deciding factor of the overall plot anyway. And he is a deciding factor BECAUSE of his plans, BECAUSE of what he deliberately chose to do, because what he did... Worked... So no he doesn't fail, he actually wins. Not by being powerful, but by being smart and insanely creative and adaptable like you said. And DOES things others wouldn't think of. But he thinks, he makes a plan, he does the plan and he changes the overall scenario allowing Luffy to take the big win. That's an amazing thing about One Piece too, in every arch every single Strawhat is needed, when the arch is done we know that if just ONE Straw Hat had not been here, they would all have died. And Usopp is always part of the equation too, if he had not been there and done his thing, they would have lost... every time. And the thing he does is NEVER coincidental, he thought of it and did it.
@@MoonPhantom I would say it is particularly with the god Usopp stuff in dressrosa. Like i guess you could more equate it to right place right time, moreso
@@jamesveronese6519 I don't know man... Even in Dressrossa, it is very clear Usopp HAS the option of leaving... heck it's a major plot point he almost leaves. But then he turns back and enters the fight. Buggy failing upward would be him trying to leave but accidentally runs in a big circle ending up back with Trebol on accident and then getting his arse beat hilariously ending up in a win for Buggy on accident... THAT would be failing upward. But Usopp went back by his own free will on purpose to face his battle and turned the entire tide of conflict BECAUSE he went back by his own free will. If Usopp had not turned back by himself, they would have lost. And then of course later in his second win, the master sniper shot, that's one hundred percent him winning on his own merits so... I have to disagree here... I think Usopp is moving up the ranks entirely because of his own choices and actions, always choosing to enter and fight willingly. Unlike Buggy who is always TRYING to run away, but accidentally ends up in the center of the chaos anyway.
@@audaciousjones No, that's not true at all. The actual issue is that there's so many new characters and things going on that Ussopp just can't get enough screen time anymore
Ussop is literally all of us. We’d all like to think we’d be Luffy or Zoro and act fearless. But if you saw a 9ft fishman you’d be scared then you get told “hey you have to fight that” 99% of people would rightly turn and run because we fear death. We should all strive to be more like Ussop. Scared yes, but he’s no coward. If his family is in danger he will stand up and fight!
Really objectively speaking most of the shit Usopp freaks out about are things that any normal human being on his level would be right and healthy to fear.
Bravery is being afraid but following through anyway. I hope Usopp gets Mjolnir in the coming arc. Nothing would be better than literally being worthy of the hammer!
As a man once said to me, Bravery is not the opposite of fear, but rather the control of it. Its looking fear dead in the eyes and saying "I didn't hear no bell"
One of the reasons why I love ussop so much is because of adaptability. He doesn’t have a devil fruit power nor does he have insane martial prowess, but he’s creative and always makes use of what he has stay on equal footing. His courage and ingenuity make him a standout among the straw hats even if he lacks some do the abilities that the others have
For the most part I agree, but one of my biggest complaints with his adaptability post-timeskip is his bag of infinite bullshit. It becomes less and less creative when instead of using pre-established seeds in interesting ways, he pulls out a new perfect puzzle piece. It sometimes feels like instead of shooting out several different plants to combine their unique attributes into something strong enough to catch sometthing falling he'll go, "oh man, it's a good thing at the islands I trained at there were these plants built like Jojo's characters to grab falling people and buildings!"
@@KasperCoei Yeah I agree, I love Usopp and his character journey so much. But man... What made his early fights INCREDIBLE was that he had this set amount of ordinary things we all knew what was, and then see him use these items in incredible creative ways to win his fights. Okay so Usopp has alcohol, fire pellets, rotten eggs and a sling shot... What can he do with this? Oh, to free people from the wax he ties rope around the wax, soaks it in the alcohol and sets it on fire... That's genius, that's the part of clever thinking I love. And then the dials are introduced in Skypia, Usopp picks them up and it's all about what he can do with this dial! And he uses them in all of these creative and surprising ways, it's so great. And now the dial is gone, and he just has a magic back of whatever plot convenience they need and it's just... less impressive and less fun. I get he needed an upgrade... And I even get why they went with plants because... Machines and inventions are Franky's thing now so Oda wanted to give Usopp his own thing... But I don't see why we could just have two inventors. Franky being more tech savvy and Usopp being more creative with more ordinary stuff. I think they are different enough that their inventions would feel different... Usopp was always stupidly creative, that seemed to his super power. I mean he IS an artist! His drawings and sculptures are amazing! He's the creative one in the crew, that's part of what makes him so invaluable, he thinks of these things nobody else would and thus become a deciding factor. And that is taken away a little bit with the magic bean bag yeah... Still love him though... Also MAN I just gasped and loved the moment so much when Usopp gave the Samurais absolute S for their sebuku culture. Usopp being like. "Even when I am scared and know I can't possible win, you know what I do? I fight anyway. And maybe I loose, so what. I will still fight even when it's hopeless." And he has the history to back that up! My boy has come so far! I love him.
Usopp's name might also pull from the greek fable writer Aesop. Usopp using fibs, fables, and fantasy to escape tough situations, only to then embody those fables and become a warrior of the sea, something of legend, is great character writing. You very much nailed his character.
I love usopps friendship with everyone on the crew. The man is kinda like luffy as he has a unique friendship with each member. I especially love his relationship with Luffy, Nami and Chopper.
Usopp and Chopper is ADORABLE! I love that Usopp gets to be like a big brother figure to Chopper, and Chopper really looks up to him and admires him in a sincere way. I feel like Usopp works well as a big brother for other people, back at Syrup he pretty much also worked as a big Brother for the Usopp pirates, and even to an extent Kaya. looking out for them. And now in the new setting Usopp is the younger more weak one to the others, so it's nice there's just ONE person who can be a big brother for and look out for. And of course, Nami and Usopp have this unique bond of being "The normal ones." is always special and heart warming. There's one though... I just love so much... Big brother Sanji... You know how Oda clearly always plan things ahead. Can we talk about Sanji saying to Usopp. "I do what you can't do, and you do what I can't do." Why Sanji in that moment? Why not Nami, someone who we thought related to Usopp more in this area.... It's Sanji because when Sanji grew up HE was the weak normal one, Sanji KNOWS what it feels like to be the weak one and not measuring up to those around him, he has the experience from when he was a little kid with his biological family. I just... OH MY GOD! Oda! ... I always loved that moment between them, but now that I KNOW Sanji's backstory and where he is coming from, how he was actually able to relate... I.... And he looks after Usopp because he knows that feeling just... Big brother Sanji ftw.
@@MoonPhantom I love sanji. He’s my second favourite one piece character after usopp. In my opinion, he’s the best written straw hat and feels more “human” than the other monster trio members. Him talking about the all blue on the Baratie and his face lighting up is one of my favourite scenes in one piece.
@@UsoppOP I liked Sanji fine for the most part, but was often indifferent to him as I thought his antics became a bit too much. Then the Cake Island arch happened.... My god... The Cake Island arch, and I could just feel the guilt for underappreciating Sanji for this entire time. Here's the thing about cake Island too, as the arch went on. I was so... SO convinced that Sanji would be forced to break one of his own rules. I really believed he would reach a point where he had to change, and break his own moral code. And he DIDN'T! In fact... Sanji won because he DIDN'T change. Sanji stuck to his morals and proved himself the better person, proved himself to be so sincere by sticking to his believes and NOT changing... and it felt so good! Pudding fell in love with him because Sanji proved himself to always have been sincere, never ever lying or putting up a front. And my god Sanji just being so excited over baking big mom a cake, truly enjoying himself and looking forward to see Big Mom enjoy his work... And again it's just how Sanji ALWAYS have been. Truly loving cooking, but even more that loving to see other people enjoy his cooking. I... I love Sanji man, I love him so much. Usopp has always been my favorite because he's very personal to me. I was deeply depressed when I first read One Piece and Usopp just resonated with me and everything I went through... Also in my super depressed state I went through the Thriller Bark arch and laughed so much that I cried doing the Perona fight so... Usopp ftw. But yeah... Sanji... baby... my darling... You can cook me dinner anytime good sir. In fact PLEASE. I'm in love with you now, just like so many other girls post time-skip where you really seem to be hitting your stride with the ladies.
Usopp is my favorite Strawhat. I've always got a soft spot for sneaky, rogue fighting styles. The thing I always think about with Usopp choosing to leave the crew over Merry is that Usopp relied on his ability to keep the Merry afloat as thing that made him feel he deserved to belong on the crew. A lot of Usopp's self-worth was tied to his keeping Merry repaired. Even if he wasn't a properly trained shipwright, his efforts always meant they could reach the next island, similar to Nami's navigator skills meaning she's a valid crewmember despite not being a major combatant. The mugging brought his insecurities of weakness to the forefront. He was unreliable, a liability, his weakness had cost them millions. And when he's at his lowest, he finds out the Merry couldn't be fixed. That he had been failing at the only thing that made him feel a valid part of the crew. Because of his incompetence, the Merry, their friend, was unfixable. Thus he had two choices. He can accept the Merry can't be fixed. Since he cannot fight and fundamentally failed the one thing that made he feel like a valid crewmate, that would mean he has no purpose on the crew. How can he allow himself to be on the crew if he's only going to be a liability? He'd only be on the crew because the crew liked him, not because he actually deserved it, because he was a valid and valuable member of the crew. It would be in the crew's best interest to get rid of someone are unreliable as him. Or he could refuse to accept Merry's condition. If the Merry was actually fixable, and he proved that by fixing it, then it would prove that he didn't fail his job and deserved to be on the crew. But because of Luffy's decision, the only way he could do that would be to leave the crew. It's a catch 22. Either he doesn't deserve to be on the crew, and should leave, or he has to leave the crew to be able to prove that he deserved to be a part of it.
Yes. That's one thing the otherwise good deep-dive missed: Usopp being mugged by the Franky Family put him in a super-negative mindset even by his standards, and Luffy choosing to scrap the Merry immediately after reinforced his already low self-opinion. He couldn't keep Kaya's boat seaworthy, he lost the crew's money, and despite already being shown as an excellent marksman he clearly didn't think that was enough to be worthy of being a Straw Hat.
Usopp is my all-time favorite character. Such a well written character, the perfect underdog, and represents us all. A normal man among gods and monsters. Whats braver than that? Love you SogaKing ❤
Yeah this video explains why I love Usopp as a character so much. Amazing breakdown. To go along with what's stated, even during the Onigashima Raid he supported Nami by helping her take down Ulti, supported Otama multiple ways such as giving her an opening to deliver her orders along with shooting the kibi dangos at Gifters, even supported the Scabbards in changing their ideals with his speech. He's really that dude when it comes to this.
Honestly each video is putting into words in a detailed explanation what we all love about the characters and want to express, Sanji is one of the deepest and most amazing characters, he isn't my favorite but he is probably the best written character in the whole show, can't wait for that one to drop
Genuinely Sanji vs Queen episode one of the best anime episodes I've ever seen, Sanji is truly kind and the way they show that is amazing, like how he would rather be broken and give up his life then see his crew members die, he wanted to take Kuma's attack to save the rest of his crew too, and while knowing and agreeing with what Zoro says, he is loyal and does understand like when Zoro says Luffy shouldn't let him back in the crew, but he's hesitant to say it because he is so kind. I think the way One Piece SHOWS he is kind with actions instead of personality and putting it in your face is truly amazing and I really cannot wait to see the unbelievable episode i'm expecting for Sanji, I know this video was on Usopp and it was amazing literally my favorite series on youtube right now, and every episode is so good...
To reinforce what you said about usopp's insecurity and him thinking he doesn't measure up to the others on the crew, his fight with luffy happens after usopp was robbed by the Franky family. Something that reinforced that insecurity in usopp because he demonstrably failed at something as simple as safeguarding the crews money. I think the confrontation was always going to happen, but this particular instance was the straw that broke the camels back.
Syrup Village is drastically underrated. One small detail I like from the anime is how the entire town looks like its drawn in crayon like a children's storybook. The use of colors at sunset, and the crecent moon in particular are extremely stylized. Cause it is, as you very eloquently described, a tale of two liars: Usopp, who lies to bring joy and levity to this town and his friends, and Kuro, who uses lies to deceive the people who trust him for his personal gain. And this is supposedly the weakest arc of the series.
I love the arc too. Usopp is my favorite OP character , but I also love Kaya and their relationship. I hope they marry in the end or reappear married after a timeskip.
Usopp had lowkey been one of my favorite characters of the Straw Hat Crew and definitely one of the more Underrated. His storyline in the Water 7/Enies Lobby Arc is one of the best in the series.
Oda once said Usopp will always be he weakest member of the crew because he wanted him to be the most normal and relatable. Usopp is my favorite character. Yeah, I have a soft spot for anyone who makes me laugh, the weak becoming strong, facing your fears when you’re alone, and the straight man character. I like Leorio in HxH for the same reasons. And I really like characters who have dramatic character development and growth. Almost every arc Usopp gains something new to his change. He slowly is becoming the warrior he wants to be. And I like that. Such a vague goal allowing him to tell stories to his friend (and possible love). One of his songs is called “Lies Become True” and that’s another theme I love about Usopp. It’s ironic that most of the stories he told Kaya have come true so she’s kinda heard them already. But I find that to be funny as well. Overall, Usopp is a character people either love or hate. Many want him to die out of spire but some find his death to be appropriate for his character arc. Usopp is one I’m always rooting for. He may not be as relatable as he once was, but he is still the straight man who calls out when things may be too far. And yet, he’s here, standing strong (standing through Rayleigh’s haki), doing strong things (carrying Luffy and Robin while swimming in Punk Hazard), and proving that while he may be the weakest in the end, he’ll be the weakest member of the strongest crew on the seas.
Perfect summary But I have to disagree on one point... I dont hate Usopps character at all... Its a well written character with a very well fleshed out Journey Up Till now... In fact he really gained Post timeskip for me... But I dont love the character... His scardycat nature is something that feels kinda wrong at this point... After everything he went through He cant be scared of an Island on fire... It simply doesnt make any Sense to me...
@@naviro6672 I completely understand. I had the same reaction when Chopper believed Luffy died during the Raid on Onigashima. While I love the character, I acknowledge that the flaws that don’t bother me can bother others greatly. And vice versa. I may have a thing for lovable cowards (like Chucky from Rugrats) because, the way I see it, a normal person wouldn’t want to go to an island on fire. Strong as one may be, it’s still not inviting. Yet he still did and pulled his weight. With the exception of the Dressrosa incident, I can’t see Usopp abandoning his duty or those in need. He’ll complain, he’ll protest, but he’ll still come through in the end. East Blue Usopp probably wouldn’t try to help Robin on Enies Lobby or save samurai on Onigashima. I think my cut off for cowards would be if he wad still the same way he was back at Arlong Park. When he was coming up with lies and making himself look like he fought hard. I’m actually glad they cut that from the live action. I know a lot of people held that against Usopp for the entire series.
@@Zach984racer Its more the inconsitency that bothered me... Usopp was calm and collected on FMI while facing several obsticals and I was under the impression that he overcame his scardycat nature... But as soon as we arrived in the new world he turned back into pre timeskip behavior... And other than you I am a little bit sad that the Live-Action cut the scene of Usopp trying to prevent the fight with Kiss... It was an amazing character moment FOR Usopp actually... Same in Alabasta when he choose to stay in the fight because his Captains honor was questioned... Imo Usopp shines the brightest when he fights for his crew like at Thriller Bark where he was the only one who was even able to challenge perona...
I think when it comes to the whole “he’ll always be the weakest thing”, it depends on how you look at it. Sometimes I consider Oda’s words vague. I still like Usopp, regardless. But in whatever way Usopp advances shouldn’t be cast away as something stupid when something big happens for him.
Mark, something about these videos has been speaking to my soul. You’re able to not only capture how I feel about these characters, but explain to me why I am feeling that way. Your grasp of literary analysis is intensely powerful and I will not cease to be awed by it.
@8:17 That's the best one! You have won the internet today A mix of perfectly 'was not expecting that at all' and I would totally believe the Mexican tv edits of One Piece would actually do that
I feel like this video needed to shout out to Sanji because in Enies Lobby, it was Sanji who told Usopp how he can find his spot on the crew. In Usopp's lowest point in Enies Lobby after being saved from certain death, Usopp is about to face his 'reality' of not being good enough again. Then Sanji (very fitting considering Sanji's past), says "Everyone has things they can and can't do. I'll do what you can't... You go do what I can't." One of my favorite quotes in the entire series and basically sums up exactly why they need Usopp and how Usopp was able to find his niche in the crew, leading to his highs of this arc, shooting down the marines taking Robin away. Looking back on this, it's really masterful how Oda tied in all these threads into Usopp's character arc from day 1 of introducing him and the pay off to be so well done as well. I one day wish I can make such an impactful scene
1:00 this got to be one of the HARDEST Usopp edit's I have ever laid eyes upon. Elden Ring theme GOES HARD ASF. It's as proudly bombastic as Usopp's lies, it's from a game with Celtic features which reminds me of Elbaf, and it's triumph against all the hardest odds thrown against you in a game where adversity is it's blood. The feelings of being weak, small, or scrapping just to get by like our beloved GOD USOPP!
You’ve perfectly summed up why Usopp is one of my favourite characters in the show. He’s not as strong as Luffy, Zoro or Sanji, not as skilled in practical skills useful for a pirate crew like Nami and Franky, but he is still loved and valued by his crew. Yet he never loved and valued himself, he never saw himself as being worthy to be in the Straw Hats. When I read/watched Water 7 for the first time, in particular Luffy’s fight with Usopp, it touched me in a way no story had done at the time. I’ve always struggled with inadequacy and self-esteem issues, making me my own worst enemy and a victim to my most negative impulses. So when I saw how far Usopp grew after Enies Lobby, especially when he took the mask of Sogeking off to motivate Luffy, it made me feel so connected with him. He feared for the worst but pushed through anyway, and he continues to do so even to this day. Finally, I had found a character in this crazy pirate world that I could identify with. He may be a lying and neurotic coward, but he is a cunning and loving brave warrior of the sea.
It a rare case but Usopp was an instant favorite when i very first started watching back on Oct 4th 2023. I loved how genuine he is and how kind he is to everyone. He's selfless in his selfishness. Hes a bard by dnd standards dipping his toe into many different talents useful or useless and an incredible storyteller. He always steps up everywhere he can. Hes fun to be around too, the most depressed people can easily become the most fun. Hes so strong, brave, fierce, even though he doesn't understand just how incredible he is. He will always be my favorite strawhat with chopper and brook following close behind.
Usopp having some of the most badass and funniest moments makes him such a dope character. Also can't wait to see you do a massive video covering the man and legendary mangaka Akira Toriyama in the future at some point.
Such a great video ❤ Thanks, Mark! Just one thing I would like to add: Since you mentioned Usopp's thought towards Luffy in Dressrosa: "You don't need to notice, just keep going forward", I would like to point out that Usopp actually did this in reality in Wano. Just before the raid in Onigashima, after pillaging the Torii Gate, there's a small panel where Usopp single handedly and literally without ANYONE noticing incapacitates everyone who was left out of the festival to stand guard at the entrance of the island. In this way Kaido's forces were never alerted and the infiltration was a 100% successful. None of the crew or their allies noticed this and of course Usopp didn't boast about it because that's not who he is. Definitely putting the "you don't need to notice" in practice. Furthermore, this is a callback to back in Syrup Village, when Usopp said he didn't want the villagers to ever know what he has done for them; because even that early on, the only recognition he sought was his own. I just find it kind of heartbreaking and ironic how even the fans never noticed this small victory for Usopp in Onigashima. But then again, perhaps it is exactly as Usopp wants it to be... Personally, I noticed and I am happy for him. I have always rooted for him and can't wait for the moment he will realise that he has indeed already accomplished his dream.
Usopp is the one character that baffled me because I loved him so much when I first started watching One Piece. He's definitely not the kind of character I thought would ever become my favorite.... but here I am lol. I even got a few figures of him in my collection. In such an extraordinary world with superhuman people, Usopp brings the humanity into it
I always considered someone's opinion of Usopp to be the perfect litmus test determining if they "get" One Piece. Usopp was never intended to be a typical shonen badass. He's the everyman that we all can relate to and root for. He's the "Cowardly Lion" on Luffy's journey. Despite being the comic relief, there is weight behind his strides toward his dream of becoming a brave warrior of the sea. One of my favorite moments of Usopp's character growth is during the Arlong Park arc, when Usopp fights Chuu. Initially, Usopp plays dead in order to save himself without giving a real fight. Usopp even rubs dirt on himself and rehearses what lie he is going to tell the crew about how he gave it his all and lost the fight. Upon reflection what he is doing is cowardly and shameful and not the reason he went out to sea, Usopp musters the courage to challenge Chuu for real once and for all and wins!
The cowardly lion is a perfect comparison. In the original work, it is made very clear that the cowardly lion is actually quite brave, but thinks himself a cowardly because he is scared even while doing what he has to. Usopp has been a brave warrior of the sea since day 1, but he never believed it himself. The only thing usopp has to change is to believe that he has made it and we are so close to that by now.
Characters like Usopp in One Piece or Krillian in DBZ are always my favorite in a series. Their fights are usually using their weaker abilities in clever ways, and that's so much more entertaining to see than the standard "punch harder" route most protagonists go through. I enjoy intelligent characters in general, but characters who aren't one for fighting on top of that get a boosted appeal, since they have to strategize more to make up for what they lack.
Live this ussopp analysis! One moment that sold me about ussopp's charactwr is in alabasta in his fight with mr. 4 and ms. Merry Christmas. This fight he is fighting it with chopper, who as of now is the newest member of the crew. Initially, he tries telling chopper a truth and conviction he holds which is to stand tall in the face of someone mocking the dreams of your friends. The dream in question being luffy becoming the pirate king. Yet, mr. 4 and ms. Merry christmas mute his conviction, chattering his face right in the middle of saying it. Yet... despite taking that hit, almost looking like he is about to die, he repeats his conviction, instilling in chopper what he wanted to tell, and thus lighting a fire in chopper that allowed both of them to get in the same page and defeat their enemy. Its one of my favorite battles and one moment that had me pumping my fist up for our one and only savior Go d. Ussop 😂
I am so grateful for this video 🙏 When I had first watched the barrel scene during Reverse Mountain, I had thought: "What is Usopp talking about? He already is a brave warrior of the sea". Then Water 7 happened and I realised: "Oh, he is someone like me". "Save me, Sogeking!" and "I will be your legendary hero!" are two of my favourite lines in all the series. Usopp is such an amazing person and such a wonderfully written character. He definitely deserves more recognition.
Actual tears-Usopp is my favourite and always has been. As soon as you started talking about how his enemies must have seen him, just... wow. The like button can't be smashed hard enough
Damn, this video series is way too good. How these aren’t getting millions of views is beyond me. Keep up the good work! I'm always excited to see one of these in my subscription feed!
The best and most showing aspect of Usopp is that in a manga where the level of might for a character is shown by there wanted bounty, Usopp is the ONLY character that actively wants his bounty to go down
As frustrating as Usopp can be I love that he’s on the crew. Another TH-camr said Usopp is who we would be if we were on the crew, just a regular person trying to be brave ❤
I'm really enjoying these deepdives into character. It is really a breath of fresh air. Way to many judge characters for some of their actions without taking context into consideration. All well written characters is much more complex than their actions and in these shonen series their fights. Thank you for doing these videos.
YES YES YES!!! Everything you said is why I love Usopp as a character. I could not put into words as to why I did. While I do not lie as often as he does, I definitely can relate to feeling inadequate. Feeling inferior to my peers. That I do not deserve to be where I am and everything happened due to happenstance. I still struggle to work through these feelings, but I also wish to one day feel secure about who I am and what I can contribute to the lives of the people I love. Thank you for sharing this video Mark!
I always say that battle with Luffy is my fav Usopp character moment. Whenever bring someone up. I point out the ship stuff was an allegory/ characteristic of him. You have to pay attention. Brought tears to my eyes.
Just want to say that your videos are always one of the highlights of my week, and somehow 95% of them get me crying MULTIPLE times. Everything from One piece to Naruto and HXH, the way you present your talking points takes me exactly back to when I first watched all of them you somehow multiple the emotional weight of everything.
I love his split Sogen king persona, it just adds so much character to him, i would have enjoyed him more if they showed how ussop when he wears the mask, he becomes this great warrior of the sea and fears nothing, like he did in thriller bark, also love his part in dressrosa after sanji he may be my fav strawhat
I can’t remember if it was Mark’s video or someone else’s but Usopp is best described as the Swiss Army knife, a jack-of-all-trades master of none character. What I like about the lies he says is that they sometimes come true like the giant goldfish whose poop is so massive that they can be mistaken for land or the many times he calls himself the captain until he gets the nickname God Usopp.
Brilliant character breakdown. Because One Piece features a large cast, and a wide cast of main characters, Oda has not crafted the SH's as entirely being compased of extremely dynamic rounded arc characters, and because of this fans really overlook the careful characterization and development in the series. Thank you Mark for this.
Unopp was never my favorite character and I always thought you could just get rid of him but this video help open my eyes to his importance to his crew and as him as a character.
I saw a comment from another One Piece video that I wholeheartedly agree with regarding Usopp’s character: “A self inserting character representing the crux of humanity and it’s flaws and weaknesses but also shining a light on overcoming those weaknesses to persevere is such a wonderful idea to add to such a fantastical story.”
Hot take: Usopp had nothing to apologize for. The Going Merry was a part of the crew and turned out to have a soul. Usopp was right to stand up for a member of the crew, and if it wasn't for Usopp caring so deeply for The Going Merry, it wouldn't have been there to save them all. Usopp's actions literally saved everyone's lives. Luffy was also the one who told Usopp "If you don't like my decision, then leave." Usopp didn't like his decision to get rid of The Merry, so he did what the captain told him to do. He left... He was literally respecting the captain's decision... Usopp also clearly expressed how he felt. Saying that he wasn't as physically strong as the others, and felt like he was dead weight, like The Merry was becoming. Instead of acknowledging Usopp's value as a crew member, Luffy was just like, "Yeah, we're not letting anything hold us back. That's why we're getting rid of The Merry." In other words, telling Usopp that he's also dead weight, just like The Merry. Then Zoro goes on about the whole "respecting the captain" thing, which doesn't make any sense, since they've all disregarded Luffy's decisions at times. I know you could say, "well it's about not being able to leave the group and rejoin whenever you want." But several members have left the group, only to return later. Nami, Robin, and Sanji for example. They never had to apologize for leaving. Usopp should be no different. Long story short, I don't think Usopp had anything to apologize for. He was right to stand up for The Going Merry, saved everyone's lives as a result, and Luffy should apologize for not acknowledging Usopp's value as a crew member and insinuating that Usopp was dead weight.
I've seen that theory that Usopp will die at the end sacrificing his life for the crew or the world and truly becoming the bravest warrior to ever life. An if that does actually happen, I hope his final words to Luffy will be something like "did I achieve my dream?" and Luffy crying will say something like "you've always been a brave warrior to me". Shit would fucking break me especially with how much Usopp looks up to Luffy as a guiding light in his world of self doubt and fear. He seeks validation often, and with Luffy being the person he looks up to the most, Luffy telling him he achieved his goal is going to be the saddest moment ever and will make Usopp probably THE fan favorite character. Its so easy to talk badly about him compared to the others, if he does something like this, you will never be able to downplay him again.
I always love your content, and i love ussop and every point you made about him is why i love him i love how he is the underdog as not having any "special abillity" thats just strong by itself, even with observation Hakki Ussop would mean nothing if he didnt knew how to shoot also, i wanna point out the amazing editing work, i love the use of music of this video and the scenes, things like using lavander town for perona and the Songs used for the water 7/ennies lobby scenes enhance the writting and your narration so much, probs to editor-san and everyone else, another peak Mark video as always
The crazy thing is ussop has a role on the crew. He’s the sniper. In a world of ships, and cannons having a gunner/sniper who can hit targets at long ranges is extremely useful. Not to mention ussop vs sugar and his sniping at Ernie’s lobby show how valuable ussop is. In a world of close range fighters having a long range support fighter can literally be the difference between life and death.
My favorite character! I even have a Sogeking tattoo. His fights are never boring because he always brings ingenuity and imagination. I never know how he’s going to win. Great video!
Thank you for this super cool analysis of Usopp! He’s my favorite Strawhat- always has been- because even when he’s terrified, he still stands up to protect and help his friends, and I always enjoy the character development he has. I hadn’t even realized the framing of the fight with Luffy, but you’re right- he does look menacing and competent there, and it makes me think about all of his fights from the opponent’s view now, how they must think of him. He really is the best support the Strawhat crew could have!
That is crazy because I didn't think about how the crew views Ussop. They would definitely say he accomplished his goal a long time ago but himself not thinking so gives him more time to grow.
I feel like this was the best one piece character analysis yet. Going into the presentation of the character from the manga perspective really highlighted how intentional Oda can be when writing characters. I also never noticed Usopp's growth in regards to needing that outside validation when doing something great. His snipe in dressorosa is one of my favorite moments in One piece and now I understand fully why.
Its amazing that both you and MelonTeee in her own video about Usopp pointed out that Usopp's dream is very vague and it's only limited to what HE thinks being a Great Warrior of the Sea is. Because if you ask anyone else, he already is; he's a member of a Yonko crew for crying out loud. Usopp might just be the best written Straw Hat.
Honestly. Not only is Usopp my favourite one piece character He is one of my favourite characters of all time. The way I like to describe it as... Characters like Batman or Doctor who. Is who I would like to be Usopp is who I am And I am saying that as a white woman lol. But yeah I am Usopp. I suffered greatly from depression when first reading the water 7 arch. And it resonated with me so hard. Usopp's doubts. The way he hides it through an upbeat attitude. His story telling. I resonated with all of it. And man. When we reached the thriller bark arch. And Usopp beat Perona with depression. I was depressed myself. And I laughed so hard that I cried Again it resonated so hard with me. And was also SO inspirational BECAUSE Usopp struggles. Because Usopp is the one facing enemies he knows he can't win again And usually he does indeed loose. But he still stood up and was a deciding factor anyway. And sometimes. Though Usopp shouldn't logically win... He does. Because he never gave up. In spite of the doubt. In spite of the hardship and bad odds Usopp is how I want to be too And yeah I no longer suffer from depression and have a large sogeking statue on my desk 😊
I love ussop and his dynamic with nami which is very underated. But sometimes it feels like his character loops being afraid when we see he can be casual and snipe people with no issue. I get when he's in front of big mom or a foe he can definitely not beat but sometimes i wish he'd pretend to be scared and use that to trap foes
The story still needs some comic relief... But yeah it feels like after Dressrossa, that behaviour is kind of redundant from Usopp, he should kind of be past it by now. He already faced foes so much stronger than himself and survived so... Though I loved so much Usopp giving the Samurai's S when they wanted to commit sepuku cause Usopp is just like. "When I am really really scared, and face a battle I already know I am going to loose. You know what I do? I don't run away, I don't commit sepuku. I go in and fight anyway!" And yes... he does... we have the evidence to back that up. So that moment was just AMAZING to me. Also just Usopp lecturing the fearless samurai's he admired so much beforehand. Funny Mark didn't bring that up.
I blame it all on focus. I really do. Usopp might possibly still have that stuff up his sleeve, but we haven’t seen it yet because he hasn’t been given the focus.
One thing I think doesn't get mentioned enough is that even though Zoro was trying to be stern and do what he felt was right in Water-7, it's plainly obvious if you watch his reactions that he was just as desperately hoping Usopp would rejoin the crew as everyone else. Even Zoro, the guy who was the hardest on him, always believed Usopp had value in the crew and didn't genuinely want him gone.
Remarkable video. Usopp is long overdue for a moment to equal his fight with Luffy against a main enemy crew. Hes my favorite character, I just want more for him. I know we may in Elbaf.. but, man I wish he did something more in Wano.
Wano was such a let down. For such a long arc, some characters didn’t get a “big moment” like they deserved. Maybe I wouldn’t complain so much if people weren’t so critical about it.
Usopp was already my second favorite Straw Hat, only being behind Luffy, but this video gave me an even bigger appreciation for a character I already loved. Thanks, Mark.
Being a storyteller (fantasy writer) myself, I absolutely love Usopp as a character. I hope he acquires self-confidence, because, as you said, he is already a brave warrior. Ironically (or not) I would like to see him coming back to Syrup Village, marrying Kaya and settling down after helping Luffy become King of Pirates... he will have many stories to tell, he could have a factory and invent many things and I think he´d make an awesome father and husband.
I've never really been into One Piece outside of videos like this, but almost everyone I know seems to hate Usopp specifically because of his fight with Luffy. The ones that don't hate him say that Usopp had every right and reason to feel the way he did and shouldn't have had to apologize. In the same vein, most of them also say they liked Sanji's fight with Luffy and that it's good he never had to apologize, despite it being the same kind of deal. Never made much sense to me. But then, I don't know the characters well. The character I see people talk about the most is Zoro, and opinions are always split on him. He's either their favorite character because he's a badass, or their least favorite character because he's a terrible, boring hypocrite. I dunno. Watching this, though, I think Usopp might be my favorite even though I don't know much about any of them.
If someone asked me which character is best written in OP i would whole heartedly say Ussop no matter how lacking he is, he keeps standing up when there is absolutely no one else can and keep giving us some of the most inspiring battles and i would say he made me cry probably more than anyone else at first you dislike him but the more you see him go the more you cant help but root for him and want him to shine brighter than the sun and i am extremely excited to finally see him finally reach Elbaf
I suspect that the tangible aspect of Usopp's goal is to gain the approval of his father. After all, Yasopp was a major driving factor in inspiring Usopp to become a pirate in the first place. I'm guessing the lack of approval he's received from the source of his dream is where his insecurities come from. This is also why I suspect that Yasopp will die at some point in the story prior to Usopp getting to see him. This would allow for Usopp to undergo the toughest challenge his character could possibly take on.
i absolutely love these deep dives into each character. Sanji is my favourite strawhat and i cant wait for the next episode. on a different note NOOOOOOOOOOO, you tricked me with the Cristal beer meme.
I appreciate that Sanji is the one in Water 7 that tells Usopp to do what only he can do; I feel like Sanji more than any of the others understands what it is to be compared to others and thought to be weak, worse to feel that you are yourself.
Well I mean he was the runt of the litter of his family that was thrown away so Sanji absolutely does get how Usopp feels
@@Drums_of_Liberation Yeah, my point exactly.
Such a great lens to look through. Makes me wonder if Oda had something like this in mind for Sanji since the start?
Main difference I think of is Sanji also knows (within his family) what he can’t do but his mom is the one (and sis to an extent) what he IS capable of that his brothers and father are not.
His road and path allowed him to talk to Zeff like he did because he faced worse odds and overcame them so nobody can tell him he can’t do something. Then he’s faced with Zeff giving up his life as a pirate because he so STRONGLY believed in Sanji. Confronted with that how could Sanji deny that he IS special? Then to be the big fish in a small pond took that seed of confidence and grew it into a mighty tree capable of weathering almost any storm.
Whereas Usopp could only tell himself lies after losing both parents. “He must not care why else would he leave?” “I’m not good enough” “I could never do that”. Only to be thrown into a big ocean without ever having had the chance to grow confident… small wonder that despite all he’s done he still feels like he isn’t a Brave Warrior when really he had it in hand since the start.
LOVED how Mark recognized that Luffy and Zoro realized he was being more brave in that situation than either of them. They knew they’d be fine (even if they didn’t they still would fight) but Usopp knows (or at least believes) he won’t be fine yet goes out there anyways.
While Usopp has flashes of it at times (vs #4 sugar and PH grunts) he needs to realize that the difference he has between him and the other monsters is that they know there are some fights that if you avoid them would be worse than death. When your friend’s pride has been stepped on, when they are in danger, etc.
Yet he still hasn’t fully grasped that like on Onigashima: nami vs ulti (Nami just say it! Lie Nami! It’s no good if you’re dead)
@@bjsuitsAs for Oda's plans for Sanji, we can be pretty sure his name and swirly eyebrows were a conscious design. Meaning he was supposed to be a third something, like a third experimantal modified human, and that he was indeed supposed to be a modified human, merged with some devil fruit properties, as indicated by the swirls. We also learn pretty early that he is from North Blue, yet we meet him in the East. I think him being discarded was a plan from the start. Especially since even from the begining he had the tendency to go on solo missions, which plays into his own inscurities (fully on display in Whole Cake Island, so it took a while). So yeah, I do think indeed "Oda had something like this in mind for Sanji since the start". :D
@@ania7930 idk if modified or not was planned I think “part of a set” was but if it was always based on super sentai that could have been just humans putting on raid suits and getting their powers that way (sorta how Sanji was speculated to get his powers via his suit so he smashed it) and the outline was there but not all the details. Idk maybe Oda will reveal all that after it wraps up?
Him actually seeming menacing while not having thought bubbles was such a big thing for you to point out to me
For real, had to go back and relisten to that part again because it hit so hard
I know right! Now that he said it because... I always loved that fight and how at the beginning it looks like Usopp might actually win. He actually controls the fight UNTIL the point he runs out of traps.
The reason why Luffy win is because he has more strength and stamina and powered through Usopp's traps... But as long as Usopp didn't run out, he controlled the battlefield. And I always found that SO impressive... I never even THOUGHT about that we actually never heard his thoughts... that's genius.
It also, like mark said, gives us an idea of how these fights seem from the enemy's pov.
We get slowed down a LOT in his thoughts, but these things are happening, thoughts included, at the pace of the Luffy VS Usopp fight more often than not.
He's out here blitzing enemies with off the wall tactics and deceptions nonstop. He's definitely a menace.
@@MoonPhantomHonestly I feel like Luffy kind’ve just won for the plot😂
There are several hits Usopp gets in from Egg bombs to tabasco shots and blinding light that target his weaknesses… if it were anyone else in the series (around that time) they wouldn’t just brush it off like nothing imo.
@@bigpurplepops Njah, I think it's pretty clear Luffy was always going to win that fight. The power level was just too big.
Usopp controlled the battle until he ran out of plans. But Luffy was ALWAYS the protagonist with a stupid amount of stamina who always keeps getting back up even when defeated.
That legit is Luffy's character.
Crocodile beat him, Luffy still came back. Enel threw him off the Island, he still came back, Arlong beat him down... Luffy bounced back up. He is a legit rubber boy. He always bounces back up like Rubber and slingshots back, that has been his character since day one and long before this fight took place.
So yeah... It was always going to end in a lose for Usopp.
And the thing too is... Usopp knew... Usopp KNEW he was going to loose. It wasn't even about winning or loosing, it was about still doing what he could and maintain his pride.
And heck THAT is in line with Usopp's characters too, he actually has entered a lot of fights he knew he couldn't possible win, even in his original introduction he did it, he he knew he couldn't win, he entered the fight anyway and did his best... yes his lost, but his pride was intact.
And later again we see the SAME thing with Trebol. He KNEW that if he entered battle he was going to lose... But he did it anyway. That's always who he was.
And that circles back when he talks to the Samurais who are about to commit sepuku because they know they can't win this battle and Usopp is just like. "Hey... You know you can't win, but what sort of dumb excuse is that? I go into battles I can't win ALL the time. You losers."
Seriously I love Usopp chewing out these Samurais so much and is kind of shocked Mark didn't bring it up.
Also is a nice circle as Usopp stepped in deeply admiring these "Fearless Samurais." and then ended up being the one nearly loosing respect for them and giving them a good chewing.
What works about Usopp for me is how much of his stuff comes from failing upwards/ working smarter and not harder. He is 9/10 times well in over his head, but he’s been this since the start and has always carried his weight in his own unique way. A strategic fighter amongst people like Luffy, Zoro and Franky is such an interesting concept and I just wish Oda used him more in the ladder half of the story
one piece post time skip has the dbz problem of the villains have got so strong that the weaker team members have become alot less relevant
I won't really say Usopp fails upward... Buggy does. All of Buggy's victories are total accidents, which makes it hilarious.
Usopp's... are not... yeah he loses fights but... he is always a deciding factor of the overall plot anyway.
And he is a deciding factor BECAUSE of his plans, BECAUSE of what he deliberately chose to do, because what he did... Worked...
So no he doesn't fail, he actually wins. Not by being powerful, but by being smart and insanely creative and adaptable like you said. And DOES things others wouldn't think of.
But he thinks, he makes a plan, he does the plan and he changes the overall scenario allowing Luffy to take the big win.
That's an amazing thing about One Piece too, in every arch every single Strawhat is needed, when the arch is done we know that if just ONE Straw Hat had not been here, they would all have died. And Usopp is always part of the equation too, if he had not been there and done his thing, they would have lost... every time. And the thing he does is NEVER coincidental, he thought of it and did it.
@@MoonPhantom I would say it is particularly with the god Usopp stuff in dressrosa. Like i guess you could more equate it to right place right time, moreso
@@jamesveronese6519 I don't know man... Even in Dressrossa, it is very clear Usopp HAS the option of leaving... heck it's a major plot point he almost leaves. But then he turns back and enters the fight.
Buggy failing upward would be him trying to leave but accidentally runs in a big circle ending up back with Trebol on accident and then getting his arse beat hilariously ending up in a win for Buggy on accident... THAT would be failing upward.
But Usopp went back by his own free will on purpose to face his battle and turned the entire tide of conflict BECAUSE he went back by his own free will.
If Usopp had not turned back by himself, they would have lost.
And then of course later in his second win, the master sniper shot, that's one hundred percent him winning on his own merits so... I have to disagree here... I think Usopp is moving up the ranks entirely because of his own choices and actions, always choosing to enter and fight willingly.
Unlike Buggy who is always TRYING to run away, but accidentally ends up in the center of the chaos anyway.
@@audaciousjones No, that's not true at all. The actual issue is that there's so many new characters and things going on that Ussopp just can't get enough screen time anymore
Ussop is literally all of us. We’d all like to think we’d be Luffy or Zoro and act fearless. But if you saw a 9ft fishman you’d be scared then you get told “hey you have to fight that” 99% of people would rightly turn and run because we fear death. We should all strive to be more like Ussop. Scared yes, but he’s no coward. If his family is in danger he will stand up and fight!
Facts !!!!
Really objectively speaking most of the shit Usopp freaks out about are things that any normal human being on his level would be right and healthy to fear.
Bravery is being afraid but following through anyway. I hope Usopp gets Mjolnir in the coming arc. Nothing would be better than literally being worthy of the hammer!
As a man once said to me, Bravery is not the opposite of fear, but rather the control of it. Its looking fear dead in the eyes and saying "I didn't hear no bell"
Reminds me of this dialogue from the game of thrones:
Bran: can I still be brave if I'm afraid?
Ned: that's the ONLY time anyone can be brave
One of the reasons why I love ussop so much is because of adaptability. He doesn’t have a devil fruit power nor does he have insane martial prowess, but he’s creative and always makes use of what he has stay on equal footing. His courage and ingenuity make him a standout among the straw hats even if he lacks some do the abilities that the others have
For the most part I agree, but one of my biggest complaints with his adaptability post-timeskip is his bag of infinite bullshit. It becomes less and less creative when instead of using pre-established seeds in interesting ways, he pulls out a new perfect puzzle piece. It sometimes feels like instead of shooting out several different plants to combine their unique attributes into something strong enough to catch sometthing falling he'll go, "oh man, it's a good thing at the islands I trained at there were these plants built like Jojo's characters to grab falling people and buildings!"
@@KasperCoei Yeah I agree, I love Usopp and his character journey so much. But man... What made his early fights INCREDIBLE was that he had this set amount of ordinary things we all knew what was, and then see him use these items in incredible creative ways to win his fights.
Okay so Usopp has alcohol, fire pellets, rotten eggs and a sling shot... What can he do with this?
Oh, to free people from the wax he ties rope around the wax, soaks it in the alcohol and sets it on fire... That's genius, that's the part of clever thinking I love.
And then the dials are introduced in Skypia, Usopp picks them up and it's all about what he can do with this dial! And he uses them in all of these creative and surprising ways, it's so great.
And now the dial is gone, and he just has a magic back of whatever plot convenience they need and it's just... less impressive and less fun.
I get he needed an upgrade... And I even get why they went with plants because... Machines and inventions are Franky's thing now so Oda wanted to give Usopp his own thing... But I don't see why we could just have two inventors. Franky being more tech savvy and Usopp being more creative with more ordinary stuff. I think they are different enough that their inventions would feel different... Usopp was always stupidly creative, that seemed to his super power.
I mean he IS an artist! His drawings and sculptures are amazing! He's the creative one in the crew, that's part of what makes him so invaluable, he thinks of these things nobody else would and thus become a deciding factor.
And that is taken away a little bit with the magic bean bag yeah... Still love him though... Also MAN I just gasped and loved the moment so much when Usopp gave the Samurais absolute S for their sebuku culture.
Usopp being like. "Even when I am scared and know I can't possible win, you know what I do? I fight anyway. And maybe I loose, so what. I will still fight even when it's hopeless."
And he has the history to back that up! My boy has come so far! I love him.
Usopp's name might also pull from the greek fable writer Aesop. Usopp using fibs, fables, and fantasy to escape tough situations, only to then embody those fables and become a warrior of the sea, something of legend, is great character writing. You very much nailed his character.
Yep its a 2-layered pun, since Uso means "lie" in Japanese
Exactly. And he admires the giants from Elbaf which is fable backwards.
I'm always surprised when people don't pick up on this. It always seemed so obvious to me.
I love usopps friendship with everyone on the crew. The man is kinda like luffy as he has a unique friendship with each member. I especially love his relationship with Luffy, Nami and Chopper.
Usopp and Chopper is ADORABLE!
I love that Usopp gets to be like a big brother figure to Chopper, and Chopper really looks up to him and admires him in a sincere way.
I feel like Usopp works well as a big brother for other people, back at Syrup he pretty much also worked as a big Brother for the Usopp pirates, and even to an extent Kaya. looking out for them.
And now in the new setting Usopp is the younger more weak one to the others, so it's nice there's just ONE person who can be a big brother for and look out for.
And of course, Nami and Usopp have this unique bond of being "The normal ones." is always special and heart warming.
There's one though... I just love so much... Big brother Sanji... You know how Oda clearly always plan things ahead.
Can we talk about Sanji saying to Usopp. "I do what you can't do, and you do what I can't do."
Why Sanji in that moment? Why not Nami, someone who we thought related to Usopp more in this area.... It's Sanji because when Sanji grew up HE was the weak normal one, Sanji KNOWS what it feels like to be the weak one and not measuring up to those around him, he has the experience from when he was a little kid with his biological family.
I just... OH MY GOD! Oda! ... I always loved that moment between them, but now that I KNOW Sanji's backstory and where he is coming from, how he was actually able to relate... I.... And he looks after Usopp because he knows that feeling just... Big brother Sanji ftw.
@@MoonPhantom I love sanji. He’s my second favourite one piece character after usopp. In my opinion, he’s the best written straw hat and feels more “human” than the other monster trio members. Him talking about the all blue on the Baratie and his face lighting up is one of my favourite scenes in one piece.
@@UsoppOP I liked Sanji fine for the most part, but was often indifferent to him as I thought his antics became a bit too much.
Then the Cake Island arch happened.... My god... The Cake Island arch, and I could just feel the guilt for underappreciating Sanji for this entire time.
Here's the thing about cake Island too, as the arch went on. I was so... SO convinced that Sanji would be forced to break one of his own rules.
I really believed he would reach a point where he had to change, and break his own moral code.
And he DIDN'T! In fact... Sanji won because he DIDN'T change.
Sanji stuck to his morals and proved himself the better person, proved himself to be so sincere by sticking to his believes and NOT changing... and it felt so good!
Pudding fell in love with him because Sanji proved himself to always have been sincere, never ever lying or putting up a front.
And my god Sanji just being so excited over baking big mom a cake, truly enjoying himself and looking forward to see Big Mom enjoy his work... And again it's just how Sanji ALWAYS have been. Truly loving cooking, but even more that loving to see other people enjoy his cooking.
I... I love Sanji man, I love him so much. Usopp has always been my favorite because he's very personal to me. I was deeply depressed when I first read One Piece and Usopp just resonated with me and everything I went through... Also in my super depressed state I went through the Thriller Bark arch and laughed so much that I cried doing the Perona fight so... Usopp ftw.
But yeah... Sanji... baby... my darling... You can cook me dinner anytime good sir. In fact PLEASE. I'm in love with you now, just like so many other girls post time-skip where you really seem to be hitting your stride with the ladies.
Except for Robin
it's a cliche quote, but
"Bravery is not the absence of fear, it is the ability to act despite it."
Correct, the absence of fear has other name: Recklessness.
@@diablo.the.cheater luffy reference
Usopp is my favorite straw hat cause he’s a jack of all trades but master of none trying to figure what he can master
He's a master sniper.
It is "a Jack of all Trades, a master of *one* ". Like person above me said he is a master sniper.
He's also a master at telling the truth. Most of what he says comes true.
@@dracosfire7247 Like the giant goldfish that has poops so big people mistake them for islands.
He mastered deception XD
Usopp is my favorite Strawhat. I've always got a soft spot for sneaky, rogue fighting styles. The thing I always think about with Usopp choosing to leave the crew over Merry is that Usopp relied on his ability to keep the Merry afloat as thing that made him feel he deserved to belong on the crew. A lot of Usopp's self-worth was tied to his keeping Merry repaired. Even if he wasn't a properly trained shipwright, his efforts always meant they could reach the next island, similar to Nami's navigator skills meaning she's a valid crewmember despite not being a major combatant.
The mugging brought his insecurities of weakness to the forefront. He was unreliable, a liability, his weakness had cost them millions. And when he's at his lowest, he finds out the Merry couldn't be fixed. That he had been failing at the only thing that made him feel a valid part of the crew. Because of his incompetence, the Merry, their friend, was unfixable.
Thus he had two choices. He can accept the Merry can't be fixed. Since he cannot fight and fundamentally failed the one thing that made he feel like a valid crewmate, that would mean he has no purpose on the crew. How can he allow himself to be on the crew if he's only going to be a liability? He'd only be on the crew because the crew liked him, not because he actually deserved it, because he was a valid and valuable member of the crew. It would be in the crew's best interest to get rid of someone are unreliable as him.
Or he could refuse to accept Merry's condition. If the Merry was actually fixable, and he proved that by fixing it, then it would prove that he didn't fail his job and deserved to be on the crew. But because of Luffy's decision, the only way he could do that would be to leave the crew.
It's a catch 22. Either he doesn't deserve to be on the crew, and should leave, or he has to leave the crew to be able to prove that he deserved to be a part of it.
Yes. That's one thing the otherwise good deep-dive missed: Usopp being mugged by the Franky Family put him in a super-negative mindset even by his standards, and Luffy choosing to scrap the Merry immediately after reinforced his already low self-opinion. He couldn't keep Kaya's boat seaworthy, he lost the crew's money, and despite already being shown as an excellent marksman he clearly didn't think that was enough to be worthy of being a Straw Hat.
I cried three times during this video. Usopp has the best character moments in the show not even close
wtf are you talking about
@@jakebuck6913 what's your problem?
I only cried once, but it was because of the Merry. I'll never not cry at that scene.
@@UsoTeaMor Usopp is dude I hate that guy
At like five minutes in I started crying and I stayed crying until the end. Usopp’s insecurities are so relatable to me personally I cant help it
Usopp is my all-time favorite character. Such a well written character, the perfect underdog, and represents us all. A normal man among gods and monsters. Whats braver than that?
Love you SogaKing ❤
Yeah this video explains why I love Usopp as a character so much. Amazing breakdown. To go along with what's stated, even during the Onigashima Raid he supported Nami by helping her take down Ulti, supported Otama multiple ways such as giving her an opening to deliver her orders along with shooting the kibi dangos at Gifters, even supported the Scabbards in changing their ideals with his speech. He's really that dude when it comes to this.
Honestly each video is putting into words in a detailed explanation what we all love about the characters and want to express, Sanji is one of the deepest and most amazing characters, he isn't my favorite but he is probably the best written character in the whole show, can't wait for that one to drop
Genuinely Sanji vs Queen episode one of the best anime episodes I've ever seen, Sanji is truly kind and the way they show that is amazing, like how he would rather be broken and give up his life then see his crew members die, he wanted to take Kuma's attack to save the rest of his crew too, and while knowing and agreeing with what Zoro says, he is loyal and does understand like when Zoro says Luffy shouldn't let him back in the crew, but he's hesitant to say it because he is so kind. I think the way One Piece SHOWS he is kind with actions instead of personality and putting it in your face is truly amazing and I really cannot wait to see the unbelievable episode i'm expecting for Sanji, I know this video was on Usopp and it was amazing literally my favorite series on youtube right now, and every episode is so good...
@@rimimimimimimimim4170 Yep you're completely right!
To reinforce what you said about usopp's insecurity and him thinking he doesn't measure up to the others on the crew, his fight with luffy happens after usopp was robbed by the Franky family. Something that reinforced that insecurity in usopp because he demonstrably failed at something as simple as safeguarding the crews money. I think the confrontation was always going to happen, but this particular instance was the straw that broke the camels back.
Syrup Village is drastically underrated.
One small detail I like from the anime is how the entire town looks like its drawn in crayon like a children's storybook. The use of colors at sunset, and the crecent moon in particular are extremely stylized. Cause it is, as you very eloquently described, a tale of two liars: Usopp, who lies to bring joy and levity to this town and his friends, and Kuro, who uses lies to deceive the people who trust him for his personal gain.
And this is supposedly the weakest arc of the series.
Nah, that is not the weakest arc, the weakest arc is the one with foxy that feels like filler but it is not filler.
I love the arc too. Usopp is my favorite OP character , but I also love Kaya and their relationship. I hope they marry in the end or reappear married after a timeskip.
Usopp had lowkey been one of my favorite characters of the Straw Hat Crew and definitely one of the more Underrated. His storyline in the Water 7/Enies Lobby Arc is one of the best in the series.
Oda once said Usopp will always be he weakest member of the crew because he wanted him to be the most normal and relatable.
Usopp is my favorite character. Yeah, I have a soft spot for anyone who makes me laugh, the weak becoming strong, facing your fears when you’re alone, and the straight man character. I like Leorio in HxH for the same reasons. And I really like characters who have dramatic character development and growth. Almost every arc Usopp gains something new to his change. He slowly is becoming the warrior he wants to be. And I like that. Such a vague goal allowing him to tell stories to his friend (and possible love). One of his songs is called “Lies Become True” and that’s another theme I love about Usopp. It’s ironic that most of the stories he told Kaya have come true so she’s kinda heard them already. But I find that to be funny as well.
Overall, Usopp is a character people either love or hate. Many want him to die out of spire but some find his death to be appropriate for his character arc.
Usopp is one I’m always rooting for. He may not be as relatable as he once was, but he is still the straight man who calls out when things may be too far. And yet, he’s here, standing strong (standing through Rayleigh’s haki), doing strong things (carrying Luffy and Robin while swimming in Punk Hazard), and proving that while he may be the weakest in the end, he’ll be the weakest member of the strongest crew on the seas.
Perfect summary
But I have to disagree on one point... I dont hate Usopps character at all... Its a well written character with a very well fleshed out Journey Up Till now... In fact he really gained Post timeskip for me...
But I dont love the character... His scardycat nature is something that feels kinda wrong at this point... After everything he went through He cant be scared of an Island on fire... It simply doesnt make any Sense to me...
@@naviro6672 I completely understand. I had the same reaction when Chopper believed Luffy died during the Raid on Onigashima. While I love the character, I acknowledge that the flaws that don’t bother me can bother others greatly. And vice versa. I may have a thing for lovable cowards (like Chucky from Rugrats) because, the way I see it, a normal person wouldn’t want to go to an island on fire. Strong as one may be, it’s still not inviting. Yet he still did and pulled his weight. With the exception of the Dressrosa incident, I can’t see Usopp abandoning his duty or those in need. He’ll complain, he’ll protest, but he’ll still come through in the end. East Blue Usopp probably wouldn’t try to help Robin on Enies Lobby or save samurai on Onigashima. I think my cut off for cowards would be if he wad still the same way he was back at Arlong Park. When he was coming up with lies and making himself look like he fought hard. I’m actually glad they cut that from the live action. I know a lot of people held that against Usopp for the entire series.
@@Zach984racer
Its more the inconsitency that bothered me... Usopp was calm and collected on FMI while facing several obsticals and I was under the impression that he overcame his scardycat nature... But as soon as we arrived in the new world he turned back into pre timeskip behavior...
And other than you I am a little bit sad that the Live-Action cut the scene of Usopp trying to prevent the fight with Kiss... It was an amazing character moment FOR Usopp actually...
Same in Alabasta when he choose to stay in the fight because his Captains honor was questioned...
Imo Usopp shines the brightest when he fights for his crew like at Thriller Bark where he was the only one who was even able to challenge perona...
I think when it comes to the whole “he’ll always be the weakest thing”, it depends on how you look at it. Sometimes I consider Oda’s words vague. I still like Usopp, regardless. But in whatever way Usopp advances shouldn’t be cast away as something stupid when something big happens for him.
Mark, something about these videos has been speaking to my soul. You’re able to not only capture how I feel about these characters, but explain to me why I am feeling that way. Your grasp of literary analysis is intensely powerful and I will not cease to be awed by it.
@8:17 That's the best one! You have won the internet today
A mix of perfectly 'was not expecting that at all' and I would totally believe the Mexican tv edits of One Piece would actually do that
Ain't that a chilean meme? 💀
bruh, that's a chilean meme
This threw me off hard
mexico = all of south america xd
@@diegocorvalan5435 Mexico ain't even in south America (France is though 🥐)
I feel like this video needed to shout out to Sanji because in Enies Lobby, it was Sanji who told Usopp how he can find his spot on the crew. In Usopp's lowest point in Enies Lobby after being saved from certain death, Usopp is about to face his 'reality' of not being good enough again. Then Sanji (very fitting considering Sanji's past), says "Everyone has things they can and can't do. I'll do what you can't... You go do what I can't." One of my favorite quotes in the entire series and basically sums up exactly why they need Usopp and how Usopp was able to find his niche in the crew, leading to his highs of this arc, shooting down the marines taking Robin away. Looking back on this, it's really masterful how Oda tied in all these threads into Usopp's character arc from day 1 of introducing him and the pay off to be so well done as well. I one day wish I can make such an impactful scene
Man, you had crying for the whole video. I just love Usopp and the concept of his character. Thank you for this analysis.
00:14:00 Luffy knows it, Zoro knows it, Nami definitely knows it. And most of all, Usopp nose it!
1:00 this got to be one of the HARDEST Usopp edit's I have ever laid eyes upon. Elden Ring theme GOES HARD ASF. It's as proudly bombastic as Usopp's lies, it's from a game with Celtic features which reminds me of Elbaf, and it's triumph against all the hardest odds thrown against you in a game where adversity is it's blood. The feelings of being weak, small, or scrapping just to get by like our beloved GOD USOPP!
You’ve perfectly summed up why Usopp is one of my favourite characters in the show. He’s not as strong as Luffy, Zoro or Sanji, not as skilled in practical skills useful for a pirate crew like Nami and Franky, but he is still loved and valued by his crew. Yet he never loved and valued himself, he never saw himself as being worthy to be in the Straw Hats. When I read/watched Water 7 for the first time, in particular Luffy’s fight with Usopp, it touched me in a way no story had done at the time.
I’ve always struggled with inadequacy and self-esteem issues, making me my own worst enemy and a victim to my most negative impulses. So when I saw how far Usopp grew after Enies Lobby, especially when he took the mask of Sogeking off to motivate Luffy, it made me feel so connected with him. He feared for the worst but pushed through anyway, and he continues to do so even to this day.
Finally, I had found a character in this crazy pirate world that I could identify with. He may be a lying and neurotic coward, but he is a cunning and loving brave warrior of the sea.
It a rare case but Usopp was an instant favorite when i very first started watching back on Oct 4th 2023. I loved how genuine he is and how kind he is to everyone. He's selfless in his selfishness. Hes a bard by dnd standards dipping his toe into many different talents useful or useless and an incredible storyteller. He always steps up everywhere he can. Hes fun to be around too, the most depressed people can easily become the most fun. Hes so strong, brave, fierce, even though he doesn't understand just how incredible he is. He will always be my favorite strawhat with chopper and brook following close behind.
Usopp having some of the most badass and funniest moments makes him such a dope character. Also can't wait to see you do a massive video covering the man and legendary mangaka Akira Toriyama in the future at some point.
Such a great video ❤ Thanks, Mark!
Just one thing I would like to add:
Since you mentioned Usopp's thought towards Luffy in Dressrosa: "You don't need to notice, just keep going forward", I would like to point out that Usopp actually did this in reality in Wano.
Just before the raid in Onigashima, after pillaging the Torii Gate, there's a small panel where Usopp single handedly and literally without ANYONE noticing incapacitates everyone who was left out of the festival to stand guard at the entrance of the island. In this way Kaido's forces were never alerted and the infiltration was a 100% successful.
None of the crew or their allies noticed this and of course Usopp didn't boast about it because that's not who he is. Definitely putting the "you don't need to notice" in practice.
Furthermore, this is a callback to back in Syrup Village, when Usopp said he didn't want the villagers to ever know what he has done for them; because even that early on, the only recognition he sought was his own.
I just find it kind of heartbreaking and ironic how even the fans never noticed this small victory for Usopp in Onigashima. But then again, perhaps it is exactly as Usopp wants it to be...
Personally, I noticed and I am happy for him. I have always rooted for him and can't wait for the moment he will realise that he has indeed already accomplished his dream.
Yep. One of the reasons I dislike Wano because people overlook his small victories in that arc.
Usopp is the one character that baffled me because I loved him so much when I first started watching One Piece. He's definitely not the kind of character I thought would ever become my favorite.... but here I am lol. I even got a few figures of him in my collection. In such an extraordinary world with superhuman people, Usopp brings the humanity into it
I always considered someone's opinion of Usopp to be the perfect litmus test determining if they "get" One Piece. Usopp was never intended to be a typical shonen badass. He's the everyman that we all can relate to and root for. He's the "Cowardly Lion" on Luffy's journey. Despite being the comic relief, there is weight behind his strides toward his dream of becoming a brave warrior of the sea. One of my favorite moments of Usopp's character growth is during the Arlong Park arc, when Usopp fights Chuu. Initially, Usopp plays dead in order to save himself without giving a real fight. Usopp even rubs dirt on himself and rehearses what lie he is going to tell the crew about how he gave it his all and lost the fight. Upon reflection what he is doing is cowardly and shameful and not the reason he went out to sea, Usopp musters the courage to challenge Chuu for real once and for all and wins!
Definitely stealing this idea it's so good
The cowardly lion is a perfect comparison. In the original work, it is made very clear that the cowardly lion is actually quite brave, but thinks himself a cowardly because he is scared even while doing what he has to. Usopp has been a brave warrior of the sea since day 1, but he never believed it himself. The only thing usopp has to change is to believe that he has made it and we are so close to that by now.
TOTALLY NOT MARK i got chills that ending was so eye opening and well put my gosh W analysis
@8:26 - GODDAMNIT! I just heard about this meme and now its EVERYWHERE! lol excellent review, as always
i absolutely lost it here
They do it for star wars 😂
I love your essay on Usopp and all but damn dude, your editor is amazing! The visuals really bring what you’re saying to the next level!
Characters like Usopp in One Piece or Krillian in DBZ are always my favorite in a series. Their fights are usually using their weaker abilities in clever ways, and that's so much more entertaining to see than the standard "punch harder" route most protagonists go through. I enjoy intelligent characters in general, but characters who aren't one for fighting on top of that get a boosted appeal, since they have to strategize more to make up for what they lack.
Funny how both characters share a VA.
@@keondramcintyre3444 krillin is voiced by the actress that voices luffy
which dragonball character does Usopp's VA voice
@@MrTBSCI think they mean in the English dub. Sonny Strait voices both characters
Great video!
I'm not sure why you included that crackpot conspiracy theory about Sogeking being Usopp though... kinda weird if you ask me...
Thats where he lost me, No way Sogeking could possibly be Usopp
i wish this "joke" would end
@@platinum-or3y you must be a lot of fun at parties…
Live this ussopp analysis! One moment that sold me about ussopp's charactwr is in alabasta in his fight with mr. 4 and ms. Merry Christmas. This fight he is fighting it with chopper, who as of now is the newest member of the crew. Initially, he tries telling chopper a truth and conviction he holds which is to stand tall in the face of someone mocking the dreams of your friends. The dream in question being luffy becoming the pirate king. Yet, mr. 4 and ms. Merry christmas mute his conviction, chattering his face right in the middle of saying it. Yet... despite taking that hit, almost looking like he is about to die, he repeats his conviction, instilling in chopper what he wanted to tell, and thus lighting a fire in chopper that allowed both of them to get in the same page and defeat their enemy. Its one of my favorite battles and one moment that had me pumping my fist up for our one and only savior Go d. Ussop 😂
I am so grateful for this video 🙏
When I had first watched the barrel scene during Reverse Mountain, I had thought: "What is Usopp talking about? He already is a brave warrior of the sea". Then Water 7 happened and I realised: "Oh, he is someone like me".
"Save me, Sogeking!" and "I will be your legendary hero!" are two of my favourite lines in all the series.
Usopp is such an amazing person and such a wonderfully written character. He definitely deserves more recognition.
Can’t wait for the Condoriano video!
Actual tears-Usopp is my favourite and always has been. As soon as you started talking about how his enemies must have seen him, just... wow. The like button can't be smashed hard enough
i never thought of the water seven events like that and holy crap this made it all make sense literally brought me to tears
Damn, this video series is way too good. How these aren’t getting millions of views is beyond me. Keep up the good work! I'm always excited to see one of these in my subscription feed!
I think it's because there are too many spoilers for those who haven't catch up.
The best and most showing aspect of Usopp is that in a manga where the level of might for a character is shown by there wanted bounty, Usopp is the ONLY character that actively wants his bounty to go down
As frustrating as Usopp can be I love that he’s on the crew. Another TH-camr said Usopp is who we would be if we were on the crew, just a regular person trying to be brave ❤
True
@@amoghyadav7840not true. Usopp gets his skull smashed in multiple times and keeps getting up. And he is in the top 5 marksmen of all time
@@josiahbaumgartner7643 ive done that
I'm really enjoying these deepdives into character. It is really a breath of fresh air. Way to many judge characters for some of their actions without taking context into consideration.
All well written characters is much more complex than their actions and in these shonen series their fights.
Thank you for doing these videos.
YES YES YES!!! Everything you said is why I love Usopp as a character. I could not put into words as to why I did. While I do not lie as often as he does, I definitely can relate to feeling inadequate. Feeling inferior to my peers. That I do not deserve to be where I am and everything happened due to happenstance. I still struggle to work through these feelings, but I also wish to one day feel secure about who I am and what I can contribute to the lives of the people I love. Thank you for sharing this video Mark!
I always say that battle with Luffy is my fav Usopp character moment. Whenever bring someone up. I point out the ship stuff was an allegory/ characteristic of him. You have to pay attention. Brought tears to my eyes.
Just want to say that your videos are always one of the highlights of my week, and somehow 95% of them get me crying MULTIPLE times. Everything from One piece to Naruto and HXH, the way you present your talking points takes me exactly back to when I first watched all of them you somehow multiple the emotional weight of everything.
I love his split Sogen king persona, it just adds so much character to him, i would have enjoyed him more if they showed how ussop when he wears the mask, he becomes this great warrior of the sea and fears nothing, like he did in thriller bark, also love his part in dressrosa after sanji he may be my fav strawhat
I love the lavender town remix around 21:00 what a good choice for thriller bark and Perona.
Shit slaps
I can’t remember if it was Mark’s video or someone else’s but Usopp is best described as the Swiss Army knife, a jack-of-all-trades master of none character. What I like about the lies he says is that they sometimes come true like the giant goldfish whose poop is so massive that they can be mistaken for land or the many times he calls himself the captain until he gets the nickname God Usopp.
Rip akira toriyama
I honestly hate how the community views Sogeking as a joke when it is by far the most pivotal point of Usopp's development.
Thank you so much Mark! This just keep getting better and better
Brilliant character breakdown. Because One Piece features a large cast, and a wide cast of main characters, Oda has not crafted the SH's as entirely being compased of extremely dynamic rounded arc characters, and because of this fans really overlook the careful characterization and development in the series. Thank you Mark for this.
Unopp was never my favorite character and I always thought you could just get rid of him but this video help open my eyes to his importance to his crew and as him as a character.
Thank you Mark. Usopp has been my favourite character since the beginning and this video highlights the things I enjoy about him
I saw a comment from another One Piece video that I wholeheartedly agree with regarding Usopp’s character: “A self inserting character representing the crux of humanity and it’s flaws and weaknesses but also shining a light on overcoming those weaknesses to persevere is such a wonderful idea to add to such a fantastical story.”
Yep. This is the best TH-cam video on Usopp that I know of. Kudos!
Hot take: Usopp had nothing to apologize for.
The Going Merry was a part of the crew and turned out to have a soul. Usopp was right to stand up for a member of the crew, and if it wasn't for Usopp caring so deeply for The Going Merry, it wouldn't have been there to save them all. Usopp's actions literally saved everyone's lives.
Luffy was also the one who told Usopp "If you don't like my decision, then leave." Usopp didn't like his decision to get rid of The Merry, so he did what the captain told him to do. He left... He was literally respecting the captain's decision...
Usopp also clearly expressed how he felt. Saying that he wasn't as physically strong as the others, and felt like he was dead weight, like The Merry was becoming. Instead of acknowledging Usopp's value as a crew member, Luffy was just like, "Yeah, we're not letting anything hold us back. That's why we're getting rid of The Merry." In other words, telling Usopp that he's also dead weight, just like The Merry.
Then Zoro goes on about the whole "respecting the captain" thing, which doesn't make any sense, since they've all disregarded Luffy's decisions at times. I know you could say, "well it's about not being able to leave the group and rejoin whenever you want." But several members have left the group, only to return later. Nami, Robin, and Sanji for example. They never had to apologize for leaving. Usopp should be no different.
Long story short, I don't think Usopp had anything to apologize for. He was right to stand up for The Going Merry, saved everyone's lives as a result, and Luffy should apologize for not acknowledging Usopp's value as a crew member and insinuating that Usopp was dead weight.
I've seen that theory that Usopp will die at the end sacrificing his life for the crew or the world and truly becoming the bravest warrior to ever life. An if that does actually happen, I hope his final words to Luffy will be something like "did I achieve my dream?" and Luffy crying will say something like "you've always been a brave warrior to me". Shit would fucking break me especially with how much Usopp looks up to Luffy as a guiding light in his world of self doubt and fear. He seeks validation often, and with Luffy being the person he looks up to the most, Luffy telling him he achieved his goal is going to be the saddest moment ever and will make Usopp probably THE fan favorite character. Its so easy to talk badly about him compared to the others, if he does something like this, you will never be able to downplay him again.
😭
I always love your content, and i love ussop and every point you made about him is why i love him i love how he is the underdog as not having any "special abillity" thats just strong by itself, even with observation Hakki Ussop would mean nothing if he didnt knew how to shoot
also, i wanna point out the amazing editing work, i love the use of music of this video and the scenes, things like using lavander town for perona and the Songs used for the water 7/ennies lobby scenes enhance the writting and your narration so much, probs to editor-san and everyone else, another peak Mark video as always
Thank you, your comment made one editor happy today!
That ad break was brilliant XD
The crazy thing is ussop has a role on the crew. He’s the sniper. In a world of ships, and cannons having a gunner/sniper who can hit targets at long ranges is extremely useful. Not to mention ussop vs sugar and his sniping at Ernie’s lobby show how valuable ussop is. In a world of close range fighters having a long range support fighter can literally be the difference between life and death.
Facts
I was absolutely not expecting that clip from stampede, it hit me emotionally
I saw this earlier and didn't realise that another video of my favourite series on TH-cam rn dropped 😭
THANK YOU FOR MAKING GO D USOP VIDEO. THE COMMUNITY IS MISSING USOPP CONTENT
im waiting for your tribute to akira toyriama. also elden ring boss music was just *chefs kiss*
My favorite character! I even have a Sogeking tattoo.
His fights are never boring because he always brings ingenuity and imagination. I never know how he’s going to win.
Great video!
Another banger freaking video. I can't wait to see the rest. great job.
To be brave means feeling fear and having the courage to keep moving forward. That's what makes Usopp a great warrior of the sea.
Ussop supremacy !!! The amount of people I’ve seen misinterpret the water 7 fight is insane 😭.
Thanks for this one Mark!
great video really helped me to see Usopp in a different light thank you for making these videos
Thank you for this super cool analysis of Usopp! He’s my favorite Strawhat- always has been- because even when he’s terrified, he still stands up to protect and help his friends, and I always enjoy the character development he has. I hadn’t even realized the framing of the fight with Luffy, but you’re right- he does look menacing and competent there, and it makes me think about all of his fights from the opponent’s view now, how they must think of him. He really is the best support the Strawhat crew could have!
That is crazy because I didn't think about how the crew views Ussop. They would definitely say he accomplished his goal a long time ago but himself not thinking so gives him more time to grow.
I feel like this was the best one piece character analysis yet. Going into the presentation of the character from the manga perspective really highlighted how intentional Oda can be when writing characters. I also never noticed Usopp's growth in regards to needing that outside validation when doing something great. His snipe in dressorosa is one of my favorite moments in One piece and now I understand fully why.
Aren't we all Usopp, locked inside our own imposter syndrome?
Thanks for the video, Mark!
Usopp symbolizes the fact that TRUE Bravery, TRUE courage isn't a lack of fear. It is pushing past fear and going on despite it.
Amazing. 10/10. Best usopp video I’ve seen yet
God damnit mark, got me right in the feels with the going merry
Its amazing that both you and MelonTeee in her own video about Usopp pointed out that Usopp's dream is very vague and it's only limited to what HE thinks being a Great Warrior of the Sea is. Because if you ask anyone else, he already is; he's a member of a Yonko crew for crying out loud. Usopp might just be the best written Straw Hat.
Honestly. Not only is Usopp my favourite one piece character
He is one of my favourite characters of all time.
The way I like to describe it as... Characters like Batman or Doctor who. Is who I would like to be
Usopp is who I am
And I am saying that as a white woman lol.
But yeah I am Usopp. I suffered greatly from depression when first reading the water 7 arch.
And it resonated with me so hard.
Usopp's doubts. The way he hides it through an upbeat attitude. His story telling. I resonated with all of it.
And man. When we reached the thriller bark arch.
And Usopp beat Perona with depression.
I was depressed myself. And I laughed so hard that I cried
Again it resonated so hard with me. And was also SO inspirational BECAUSE Usopp struggles.
Because Usopp is the one facing enemies he knows he can't win again
And usually he does indeed loose. But he still stood up and was a deciding factor anyway.
And sometimes. Though Usopp shouldn't logically win... He does.
Because he never gave up. In spite of the doubt. In spite of the hardship and bad odds
Usopp is how I want to be too
And yeah I no longer suffer from depression and have a large sogeking statue on my desk 😊
A video about my favourite character is here! Thank you for showing why Usopp is such a great character.
1:06 POV: Usopp becomes Elden Lord and rules over the lands Between
He used Chopper as torrent
thats GOD usopp to you sir
Friggin Mark...making me cry each video
I love ussop and his dynamic with nami which is very underated. But sometimes it feels like his character loops being afraid when we see he can be casual and snipe people with no issue.
I get when he's in front of big mom or a foe he can definitely not beat but sometimes i wish he'd pretend to be scared and use that to trap foes
The story still needs some comic relief... But yeah it feels like after Dressrossa, that behaviour is kind of redundant from Usopp, he should kind of be past it by now. He already faced foes so much stronger than himself and survived so...
Though I loved so much Usopp giving the Samurai's S when they wanted to commit sepuku cause Usopp is just like.
"When I am really really scared, and face a battle I already know I am going to loose. You know what I do? I don't run away, I don't commit sepuku. I go in and fight anyway!"
And yes... he does... we have the evidence to back that up. So that moment was just AMAZING to me.
Also just Usopp lecturing the fearless samurai's he admired so much beforehand. Funny Mark didn't bring that up.
I blame it all on focus. I really do. Usopp might possibly still have that stuff up his sleeve, but we haven’t seen it yet because he hasn’t been given the focus.
Yesss I love this guy and his analysis
One thing I think doesn't get mentioned enough is that even though Zoro was trying to be stern and do what he felt was right in Water-7, it's plainly obvious if you watch his reactions that he was just as desperately hoping Usopp would rejoin the crew as everyone else. Even Zoro, the guy who was the hardest on him, always believed Usopp had value in the crew and didn't genuinely want him gone.
Remarkable video. Usopp is long overdue for a moment to equal his fight with Luffy against a main enemy crew. Hes my favorite character, I just want more for him. I know we may in Elbaf.. but, man I wish he did something more in Wano.
Wano was such a let down. For such a long arc, some characters didn’t get a “big moment” like they deserved. Maybe I wouldn’t complain so much if people weren’t so critical about it.
ok I had to pause the video and laugh for a good minute at the Cervesa gag LOL
Great stuff Mark, always knocking these outta the park
Usopp was already my second favorite Straw Hat, only being behind Luffy, but this video gave me an even bigger appreciation for a character I already loved. Thanks, Mark.
Being a storyteller (fantasy writer) myself, I absolutely love Usopp as a character. I hope he acquires self-confidence, because, as you said, he is already a brave warrior. Ironically (or not) I would like to see him coming back to Syrup Village, marrying Kaya and settling down after helping Luffy become King of Pirates... he will have many stories to tell, he could have a factory and invent many things and I think he´d make an awesome father and husband.
I've never really been into One Piece outside of videos like this, but almost everyone I know seems to hate Usopp specifically because of his fight with Luffy. The ones that don't hate him say that Usopp had every right and reason to feel the way he did and shouldn't have had to apologize. In the same vein, most of them also say they liked Sanji's fight with Luffy and that it's good he never had to apologize, despite it being the same kind of deal. Never made much sense to me. But then, I don't know the characters well.
The character I see people talk about the most is Zoro, and opinions are always split on him. He's either their favorite character because he's a badass, or their least favorite character because he's a terrible, boring hypocrite. I dunno. Watching this, though, I think Usopp might be my favorite even though I don't know much about any of them.
Dang. You’re really observant. Kudos.
Yooo Congrats on 900k Mark! Amazing content as always!
If someone asked me which character is best written in OP i would whole heartedly say Ussop
no matter how lacking he is, he keeps standing up when there is absolutely no one else can and keep giving us some of the most inspiring battles and i would say he made me cry probably more than anyone else
at first you dislike him but the more you see him go the more you cant help but root for him and want him to shine brighter than the sun and i am extremely excited to finally see him finally reach Elbaf
Usopp is really a wonderful written character, he embodies what normal people would be in a complex world
I suspect that the tangible aspect of Usopp's goal is to gain the approval of his father. After all, Yasopp was a major driving factor in inspiring Usopp to become a pirate in the first place. I'm guessing the lack of approval he's received from the source of his dream is where his insecurities come from. This is also why I suspect that Yasopp will die at some point in the story prior to Usopp getting to see him. This would allow for Usopp to undergo the toughest challenge his character could possibly take on.
25:10 Whoever put Con D. Oriano in there, I salute you.
i absolutely love these deep dives into each character. Sanji is my favourite strawhat and i cant wait for the next episode.
on a different note
NOOOOOOOOOOO, you tricked me with the Cristal beer meme.
Man this hit me in the feels
Fantastic video highlighting one of the GOATs GO. D USOPP