Piece Episode 940 — One

The episode’s climax reveals the horrifying origin of the town's constant laughter: the .

: Reviewers on Anime Reviews highlight Yasuie's brilliance in using his final moments to discredit Orochi. By claiming the secret revolution flyer was just a prank, he effectively saves the Kozuki clan's plans and gives the rebels a second chance to regroup.

: Instead of traditional gore, Nakushima uses pink flower petals that gradually turn deep red as Yasuie is executed, a creative choice noted in YouTube breakdowns for adding weight to the scene without being purely graphic. One Piece Episode 940

The episode centers on the execution of , whose death serves as a strategic and symbolic pivot for the rebellion.

: 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 episode’s climax reveals the horrifying origin of

Directed by Utaka Nakushima, the episode is praised for its artistic choices that enhance the tragic atmosphere.

One Piece Episode 940, titled , is widely regarded by fans and reviewers as one of the Wano Arc's most emotionally devastating and visually striking installments. The Emotional Core: A Hero's Sacrifice : Instead of traditional gore, Nakushima uses pink

: Some viewers on Reddit found the pacing slow, noting that the episode's title suggests a Zoro-centric action piece that doesn't fully materialize until the following episode.