Wokeness has destroyed my favorite movie franchise. Star Wars will probably not be able to recover from that. Accordingly, I am already very careful when I see set-up woke castings.
Unfortunately, Netflix has already noticed negatively in the past. Death Note and Resident Evil, to name a few.
Accordingly, I find the criticism partly justified.
Still, Vivi doesn't bother me in the Netflix series. I think it fits quite well, even if I would have rather wished for an Arabic Vivi, because Egypt's setting.
I also found her arrogant expression well played in the trailer. Vivi was a bit strict as an agent and only later, when she had revealed herself as a princess, became softer from her expression.
Anyway, I think the casting is generally great so far. Even Nojiko was okay. I was more disturbed by story changes, such as the inhabitants of the village were unaware of Nami's business with Arlong.
I'm really looking forward to the season and I'm looking forward to Mr. 3.