Unraveling the Naruto Shippuden Movie Viewing Sequence

So, you’re diving into the world of Naruto Shippuden movies? Awesome! You’re in for a treat – epic battles, emotional moments, and a whole lot of ramen-fueled ninja action. But figuring out where these movies fit into the overall timeline can be trickier than mastering the Rasengan. Don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the maze of Shippuden cinema and ensure you experience the story in the best possible order.

Naruto Shippuden Movies: A Chronological Guide

Navigating the Naruto Shippuden movie timeline can feel like trying to find your way through the Forest of Death – confusing and potentially dangerous! But fear not, aspiring Hokage! We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide, placing each movie within the overall Shippuden narrative. Watching them in the right order will enhance your experience, prevent spoilers, and enrich your understanding of Naruto’s journey. Think of it as unlocking a hidden scroll containing the secrets to optimal Shippuden enjoyment.

Why Chronological Order Matters

Watching the movies in chronological order is crucial because the plot and character development often assume you’re familiar with certain events from the main series. Imagine trying to understand Avengers: Endgame without seeing the previous Marvel films – major plot points would be completely lost! Similarly, watching a later Naruto movie before its preceding arcs could spoil character deaths, power-ups, and relationship developments. Save yourself from unwanted surprises and embrace the intended storytelling flow.

The Correct Order to Watch the Naruto Shippuden Movies

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! Here’s the definitive order to watch the Naruto Shippuden movies, ensuring you experience the story as intended. This list incorporates where each movie falls within the main anime series, so you can perfectly integrate them into your Naruto marathon. Prepare your popcorn, adjust your headband, and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of ninjas!

Naruto Shippuden the Movie (2007)

The first Shippuden movie plunges Naruto and his friends into a perilous mission to protect a priestess named Shion, who possesses the ability to foresee people’s deaths. This movie should be watched after episode 32 of the Shippuden anime series. It’s a self-contained adventure that doesn’t drastically impact the main plot, but it offers exciting action and explores themes of destiny and sacrifice. Expect some classic Naruto-style heroism and plenty of teamwork.

Naruto Shippuden the Movie

“Bonds” arrives next, introducing us to a mysterious aerial ninja assault on the Leaf Village. Naruto and Sasuke must set aside their differences and join forces to protect their home. This movie fits after episode 71. It’s particularly significant because it delves deeper into Naruto and Sasuke’s complicated relationship, highlighting their bond despite their diverging paths. Plus, you get to see some truly epic team-up moves!

Naruto Shippuden the Movie

The Will of Fire focuses on Kakashi, who seemingly sacrifices himself to prevent a devastating war. Naruto and his friends must uncover the truth behind Kakashi’s actions and stop a powerful enemy from obtaining forbidden techniques. This movie is best watched after episode 128. It explores themes of loyalty, duty, and the importance of passing down knowledge to the next generation. Get ready for some emotional moments and intense battles!

Naruto Shippuden the Movie

“The Lost Tower” takes Naruto and Yamato on a mission to capture a rogue ninja named Mukade, who travels back in time to unleash a powerful force. They end up being sent back in time as well, encountering a younger version of Minato Namikaze, Naruto’s father. Watch this movie after episode 175 for optimal viewing. It’s a fun time-travel adventure that offers a glimpse into the past and provides more context for Naruto’s lineage. Think of it as a ninja version of “Back to the Future,” but with more Rasengans.

Naruto Shippuden the Movie

Naruto is falsely accused of attempting to assassinate the Raikage and is imprisoned in Hozuki Castle, a notorious prison known as the Blood Prison. He must uncover the conspiracy and prove his innocence while battling powerful inmates and uncovering a sinister plot. This movie fits in perfectly after episode 220. It’s a darker, more suspenseful entry in the movie series, showcasing Naruto’s resilience and determination even in the face of adversity.

Road to Ninja

Road to Ninja presents an alternate reality where Naruto and Sakura experience what their lives would be like if their parents were still alive. They must navigate this strange new world and uncover the truth behind its creation. Watch this movie after episode 271 for the best experience. It’s a heartwarming and emotional story that explores themes of family, loss, and the importance of cherishing the bonds we have. Be prepared to shed a few tears!

The Last

“The Last” is set two years after the Fourth Shinobi World War and focuses on Naruto’s growing romantic feelings for Hinata Hyuga. A new threat emerges, endangering the moon and the world. Naruto and his friends must embark on a mission to save Hinata and prevent a catastrophic disaster. This movie bridges the gap between the end of the Shippuden anime (episode 493) and the beginning of the Boruto era (episode 494). It’s a crucial piece of the Naruto story, providing closure to the original series and setting the stage for the next generation.

What About Boruto: Naruto the Movie?

While “Boruto: Naruto the Movie” is technically a Naruto movie, it focuses primarily on Boruto Uzumaki, Naruto’s son, and the next generation of ninja. It’s considered a part of the Boruto series rather than a direct continuation of Shippuden. Therefore, it’s best watched after you’ve completed the Naruto Shippuden series and started watching the Boruto anime. Think of it as graduating from the Naruto academy and entering the Boruto academy – a new chapter in the ninja saga!

A Note on Filler Episodes

It’s worth noting that the Naruto Shippuden anime series includes numerous filler episodes, which are story arcs not present in the original manga. While some filler episodes can be entertaining, they can disrupt the pacing of the main story. When deciding when to watch the movies, try to avoid placing them within extended filler arcs. Consult a Naruto episode guide to identify filler episodes and plan your viewing accordingly. This will ensure a more streamlined and engaging viewing experience.

Enjoying the Naruto Shippuden Movie Experience

Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy the journey! By following this chronological guide, you’ll be well-equipped to experience the Naruto Shippuden movies in the best possible order. Remember to immerse yourself in the world, embrace the characters, and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, the Naruto Shippuden movies offer a captivating and unforgettable cinematic experience. So, grab your friends, order some ramen, and get ready to become a true Naruto movie master!

FAQ

Q

While you technically *can* watch the movies without seeing the anime series, it’s highly recommended to watch at least the relevant episodes before each film. The movies often assume you’re familiar with the characters, plot points, and power levels established in the series. Skipping the anime might leave you feeling confused and missing out on crucial context. Think of it like trying to read the last chapter of a book without reading the previous ones – you’ll be lost!

Q

Whether or not the movies are “canon” (officially part of the main storyline) is a bit of a grey area. Officially, most of them are considered non-canon. However, some movies, like “The Last: Naruto the Movie,” are essential to understanding the transition between Shippuden and the Boruto series. Ultimately, enjoy them for the entertaining stories they tell, regardless of their canonicity!

Q

The availability of Naruto Shippuden movies for streaming can vary depending on your region and subscription services. Popular platforms like Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix often have the movies available, but be sure to check their current offerings. You can also rent or purchase the movies on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Apple TV. Happy watching!