Netflix’s live-action One Piece has made waves at the 3rd Annual Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, securing two prestigious wins:

  • Outstanding Original Song for a Children’s or Young Teen Program – “My Sails Are Set”
  • Outstanding Stunt Coordination for a Live-Action Program

Adapted from the beloved manga by Eiichiro Oda, One Piece was an ambitious project from the start. It took on the challenge of bringing the world of Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates to life. From stunning action sequences to heartfelt character moments, the series has been praised for its commitment to the source material’s spirit while carving out its own identity.

A significant part of that success was the exceptional world-building and high production value, much of which was made possible through South Africa’s thriving film industry.

Film Afrika’s Role in One Piece’s Success

A production of this scale required a world-class team, and Film Afrika, one of South Africa’s most respected production companies, played a key role in bringing One Piece to life. As the main production company for the series, Film Afrika was instrumental in the execution of its ambitious vision.

From the impressive ship sets like the ‘Going Merry’ and ‘Baratie’, built at Cape Town Film Studios, to the complex stunt coordination that earned the Emmy win, South African crews proved their ability to deliver at an international level. The series not only showcased the country’s world-class facilities but also its skilled local talent, whose craftsmanship helped create an immersive and visually stunning adaptation.

At Crew Collective, we are proud to highlight this achievement, not just because it’s a win for One Piece, but because it’s a win for the South African film industry. Film Afrika, as one of our valued endorsers, continues to pave the way for large-scale international productions, opening doors for local filmmakers and crew to work on high-caliber projects.

The South African Buzz

One Piece’s Emmy wins reaffirm South Africa’s status as a premier filming destination. Productions of this scale bring international recognition and opportunities, allowing local professionals to hone their craft and be part of industry-defining projects.

For those working in film—whether in cinematography, set design, costume, stunts, or post-production—this serves as a reminder that world-class productions are happening right here. South African creatives are not just servicing international productions; they are actively shaping the future of storytelling on a global scale.

Crew Collective: Connecting South African Talent to Global Opportunities

At Crew Collective, we are dedicated to championing the next generation of South African film professionals. As the industry grows, so do the opportunities for local creatives to be part of groundbreaking productions like One Piece.

With each new project, South Africa continues to solidify its place in the global film industry. One Piece may have sailed to Emmy victory, but for the local creatives who helped bring it to life, this is just the beginning of even greater adventures ahead.