: The use of strategic flashbacks—like the meeting between the Red Scabbards and Yasuie—strengthens the emotional impact of his final moments. The Dark Truth of SMILE
Directed by Utaka Nakushima, the episode is praised for its artistic choices that enhance the tragic atmosphere. One Piece Episode 940
: Reviewers on IMDb and Reddit describe this revelation as one of the darkest forms of oppression in the series. The "SMILE" victims are stripped of their ability to express any emotion other than joy, forcing them to laugh even while witnessing the brutal murder of their benefactor. : The use of strategic flashbacks—like the meeting
: Fans on Reddit note that the anime elevates the manga source material by allowing viewers to hear the heartbreaking laughter of the Ebisu townspeople as they cry over his death. Visual Mastery and Direction The "SMILE" victims are stripped of their ability
The episode centers on the execution of , whose death serves as a strategic and symbolic pivot for the rebellion.
: The episode concludes with Zoro reaching a breaking point after learning this truth from Hiyori, setting the stage for a major shift in his character’s motivation for the rest of the arc. Summary of Critical Reception
The episode’s climax reveals the horrifying origin of the town's constant laughter: the .