To effectively watch the Naruto Shippuden movies, understand that while not strictly canon (officially part of the primary storyline), they offer thrilling standalone adventures that deepen your appreciation for the characters and world. This guide will explain the best viewing order and where to find them, ensuring you maximize your Naruto experience.
Understanding the Shippuden Movie Universe
The Naruto Shippuden movies present exciting, self-contained stories. While they don’t directly impact the main plot of the anime and manga, they provide valuable character development, showcase creative uses of jutsu, and offer stunning animation. Understanding their placement within the overall timeline is crucial to avoid spoilers and enjoy them to their fullest potential. They generally fall within specific arcs of the main Shippuden series, offering expanded storylines or alternative scenarios.
The Optimal Viewing Order
The key to watching the Naruto Shippuden movies effectively lies in placing them within the context of the main anime series. Here’s the recommended viewing order to minimize spoilers and maximize enjoyment:
- Naruto the Movie: Shippuden (After episode 53 of Shippuden) – Introduces the priestess Shion, who holds the power to seal away a powerful demon. Naruto must protect her from assassins and help her fulfill her destiny.
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds (After episode 71 of Shippuden) – Follows the attack on Konoha by the “Sky Ninja,” forcing Naruto and Sasuke to briefly reunite and fight alongside each other.
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire (After episode 126 of Shippuden) – Sees Kakashi seemingly betraying the village, leading Naruto and his friends on a quest to uncover the truth behind his actions.
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower (After episode 175 of Shippuden) – Sends Naruto and Yamato back in time to the ancient city of Rouran, where they encounter a younger version of Minato Namikaze (Naruto’s father).
- Naruto the Movie: Blood Prison (After episode 220 of Shippuden) – Wrongfully accused of attempted murder, Naruto is imprisoned in Hozuki Castle, where he must uncover a conspiracy and clear his name.
- Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie (After episode 311 of Shippuden) – A powerful genjutsu transports Naruto and Sakura to an alternate reality where their parents are still alive, but their personalities are drastically different. This movie is considered semi-canon, as Masashi Kishimoto, the creator of Naruto, was heavily involved in its story and design.
- The Last: Naruto the Movie (After episode 493 of Shippuden) – Set two years after the events of the Fourth Great Ninja War, this movie is a canon installment and focuses on Naruto’s relationship with Hinata Hyuga and the looming threat of Toneri Otsutsuki. This movie is vital for understanding the ending of the Naruto series and the beginning of Boruto.
Important Note: While Boruto: Naruto the Movie is technically a Naruto movie, it bridges the gap between Naruto Shippuden and the Boruto series and is best watched after completing Naruto Shippuden entirely and before beginning Boruto.
Where to Find the Movies
Finding the Naruto Shippuden movies is easier than ever. Many streaming platforms offer them, but availability can vary by region. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
- Crunchyroll: A popular anime streaming service that often includes the Naruto Shippuden movies as part of its subscription.
- Hulu: Another great option, often carrying a selection of the Naruto Shippuden movies.
- Netflix: While Netflix has carried Naruto and Naruto Shippuden, the movie availability is inconsistent and varies by country. Check your local Netflix library for current offerings.
- Amazon Prime Video: You can often rent or purchase the Naruto Shippuden movies individually on Amazon Prime Video.
- Blu-ray/DVD: For collectors and those who prefer physical media, the Naruto Shippuden movies are available on Blu-ray and DVD.
Avoiding Unofficial Sources
Be wary of unofficial streaming websites or downloads. These can be unreliable, contain malware, and violate copyright laws. Stick to legitimate streaming platforms or physical media to ensure a safe and high-quality viewing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are the Naruto Shippuden movies canon?
Generally, no. The Naruto Shippuden movies are non-canon, meaning they don’t directly impact the main storyline of the Naruto series as established in the manga and anime. The Last: Naruto the Movie is the exception and is considered canon. Road to Ninja can be seen as semi-canon because of Kishimoto’s involvement.
Q2: Do I need to watch the Naruto Shippuden movies to understand the main storyline?
No, you don’t need to. The main plot of Naruto Shippuden is self-contained. However, the movies provide additional context, character development, and exciting adventures that enhance the overall viewing experience. The Last is vital for understanding the end of Naruto and the beginning of Boruto.
Q3: What is the best Naruto Shippuden movie?
This is subjective, but Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie and The Last: Naruto the Movie are generally considered fan favorites due to their compelling stories and character development. Road to Ninja offers an intriguing “what if” scenario, while The Last is canon and focuses on Naruto and Hinata’s relationship.
Q4: In what order should I watch all the Naruto movies (including the original Naruto series)?
The order listed above for Shippuden movies, paired with the original Naruto movies watched in release order during that series’ run, is the ideal way to proceed.
Q5: Are there any Naruto Shippuden movies I should skip?
All the Naruto Shippuden movies offer something unique. However, if you’re short on time, you could prioritize The Last and Road to Ninja. No movie is inherently “bad,” but personal preferences vary.
Q6: Do I need to watch the original Naruto series before watching the Shippuden movies?
Yes, absolutely. Naruto Shippuden is a direct sequel to the original Naruto series. Watching the original series first is essential for understanding the characters, relationships, and overall plot.
Q7: Where can I find English dubbed versions of the Naruto Shippuden movies?
Most of the major streaming platforms (Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video) offer both English dubbed and English subtitled versions of the Naruto Shippuden movies. The availability depends on the specific movie and your region.
Q8: Are the Naruto Shippuden movies available for purchase digitally?
Yes, you can purchase digital copies of the Naruto Shippuden movies on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and the Apple TV app.
Q9: How long are the Naruto Shippuden movies?
The Naruto Shippuden movies generally range from 90 to 110 minutes in length.
Q10: Are there any special editions or collector’s sets of the Naruto Shippuden movies?
Yes, there are special editions and collector’s sets available on Blu-ray and DVD. These often include bonus features like behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and art galleries.
Q11: Is Boruto: Naruto the Movie considered a Naruto Shippuden movie?
While Boruto: Naruto the Movie takes place after the events of Naruto Shippuden, it serves as a bridge to the Boruto series. It’s best viewed after completing Naruto Shippuden and before starting Boruto. Think of it as the epilogue to Naruto‘s story.
Q12: How do I avoid spoilers when searching for information about the Naruto Shippuden movies?
Be careful when browsing online forums or wikis. Use search terms like “Naruto Shippuden movie viewing order” or “Naruto Shippuden movie release dates” to minimize exposure to specific plot details. Also, utilize content filters on video streaming platforms to block thumbnail images that might reveal spoilers. It is best to follow the viewing order suggested above to avoid spoilers, though.