3.5 stars (out of 4)
Released 2015
The focus of the latest NARUTO movie is on the next generation; it’s something of an epilogue that explores what growing up would be like for Naruto’s son, Boruto. Whereas Naruto lost his parents at infancy, Boruto has a loving family. However, Naruto’s heavy responsibilities as Hokage frequently keep him away from home, even on special occasions, which frustrates and angers his son. Not to mention, Naruto understandably has no idea how to be a good dad.
Boruto, Sasuke’s daughter Sarada, and the other kids are really cute here. The families are all cute, actually, providing for a great ending credits montage.
“BORUTO” has all the elements that are central to the franchise, such as teamwork and family issues. Familiar characters are true to their personalities without becoming caricatures of themselves. There’s some humour and an action-packed fight to protect the village, with just the right amount of nostalgia mixed in. And it’s all nicely encapsulated in the length of a feature film.
Of the NARUTO films that I’ve seen, this one is by far the best. In fact, it might be the best NARUTO anything that I’ve seen or read, period.