Attlas said:I saw this movie in Japan with one of my friends a few days after it released, so I'll throw in my 2 cents.
The reason I think it would be review bombed is because if you're not already a die-hard One Piece fan, this movie has next to nothing for you.
Despite my fairly limited Japanese ability, I was able to comprehend the entire plot and the vast majority of the dialogue, (maybe to an extent of about 90% or so). I think the reason for that would most likely be that this movie barely has any substance. When the movie starts we're introduced to the island and then the "event" starts.
Shortly after the battle begins and the movie devolves into "oh hey look it's [insert one piece character here]" that character does an attack or something and then we get another character show up and the same thing happens all the way till the end of the movie.
I kept expecting some hint of story to be mentioned but it never really happened, aside from a few short moments.
The villain is forgettable and leaves no real lasting impression, writing this review I was struggling to even remember his name, despite being able to remember the Z and Gold villains easily, despite having seen them a longer time ago.
This isn't to say that the movie is bad, if you're a die-hard One Piece fan you will find enjoyment in this movie. The battle is enjoyable, the animation is good and the soundtrack just adds to the excitement.
But I think the lack of a decent story (or any at all for that matter), and over-reliance on fan service really brings the movie down.
I think the people giving 9s and 10s are the ones overly bombing the reviews because the movie certainly isn't good enough for those scores when you consider all the pieces of it.
For me I think the movie would sit at a 5 or 6. It's better than average and I enjoyed watching it, but I would be in no great hurry to run out and watch it again. And if you're eagerly awaiting the western release, and expecting anything more than fan service I recommend you lower your expectations to get more out of seeing this movie.
TL;DR The movie is severely held-back by it's lack of narrative, over-reliance on fan service and rushed pacing. Lower your expectations before watching to get the most enjoyment from this film.