Naruto and Hinata’s highly anticipated first kiss occurs during “The Last: Naruto the Movie”, which is canon within the Naruto storyline. It’s not an episode of the anime series itself but a full-fledged movie that forms a critical bridge between the end of the main series and the Boruto era.
A Moment Long in the Making
The relationship between Naruto Uzumaki and Hinata Hyuga is one of the most cherished aspects of the Naruto franchise. From Hinata’s unwavering admiration for Naruto to his slow but steady realization of her deep affection, their journey resonated with millions of fans worldwide. Their eventual romance wasn’t just a simple pairing; it was the culmination of years of character development, mutual respect, and shared experiences forged in the fires of war. “The Last: Naruto the Movie” provides the crucial context and emotional weight needed to make their kiss a truly unforgettable moment.
The Significance of “The Last: Naruto the Movie”
This movie serves as a crucial epilogue to the main Naruto Shippuden series. It details the events that unfold approximately two years after the Fourth Shinobi World War, focusing on a new threat posed by Toneri Otsutsuki, a descendant of Hamura Otsutsuki. More importantly, it explores the burgeoning romantic feelings between Naruto and Hinata, finally solidifying their relationship and leading to the aforementioned kiss. Ignoring the movie means missing vital pieces of the puzzle surrounding Naruto and Hinata’s relationship and their subsequent marriage.
More Than Just a Kiss: A Testament to Love
The kiss itself is not merely a physical act. It represents Naruto finally acknowledging Hinata’s unwavering love and reciprocated feelings. It’s a moment of vulnerability and complete acceptance on Naruto’s part, shattering the emotional barriers he had unconsciously erected. He recognizes Hinata not just as a comrade, but as the woman he loves and wants to spend his life with. The intensity of the moment is palpable, further enhanced by the beautiful animation and score of the movie.
FAQ: Unpacking the Naruto-Hinata Romance
To further explore the nuances of their relationship and the context surrounding their first kiss, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Is “The Last: Naruto the Movie” considered canon?
Yes, “The Last: Naruto the Movie” is considered canon by creator Masashi Kishimoto and is integrated into the official timeline. It bridges the gap between the end of the Naruto Shippuden anime and the start of the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations series. Ignoring it leaves significant plot holes in character development.
FAQ 2: What leads up to the kiss between Naruto and Hinata in “The Last”?
Throughout the movie, Hinata’s devotion to Naruto is continuously showcased. She even knits him a scarf as a token of her affection. When Toneri kidnaps Hanabi Hyuga and attempts to force Hinata to marry him, Naruto embarks on a mission to rescue her. During this mission, Naruto confronts his own feelings and realizes the depth of Hinata’s love for him. He also experiences visions of Hinata’s past, further cementing his understanding of her unwavering dedication. This culminates in a heartfelt confession from Naruto and the eventual kiss.
FAQ 3: Does Naruto realize Hinata’s feelings before “The Last”?
While Naruto acknowledges Hinata’s feelings during the Fourth Shinobi World War, particularly after her near-death experience defending him, he doesn’t fully grasp the extent of her love until the events of “The Last.” Before that, Naruto was largely oblivious to romantic feelings, prioritizing his goals and friendships. The movie forces him to confront his own emotional shortcomings and open his heart to Hinata.
FAQ 4: Why is Hinata so important to Naruto?
Hinata represents unwavering loyalty, quiet strength, and unconditional love. She was one of the first people to truly believe in Naruto, even when everyone else dismissed him. Her selfless acts, especially during the Pain Invasion and the Fourth Shinobi World War, showcase her bravery and unwavering commitment to protecting Naruto. She embodies the kind of unwavering support and acceptance that Naruto desperately craved throughout his childhood.
FAQ 5: How does the scarf Hinata makes factor into their relationship?
The scarf Hinata knits for Naruto serves as a powerful symbol of her love and affection. It’s a tangible representation of her devotion and a constant reminder of her presence. When Toneri rips the scarf, it symbolizes an attempt to sever their connection. Re-knitting the scarf is a symbolic act of mending and strengthening their bond, ultimately leading to Naruto wearing it, signifying his acceptance of her feelings.
FAQ 6: What are some other key moments in their relationship besides the kiss?
Besides the kiss in “The Last,” other pivotal moments include Hinata’s confession of love to Naruto during the Pain Invasion, her defense of Naruto against Pain, her healing efforts during the Fourth Shinobi World War, and her constant support and encouragement of Naruto’s dreams. These moments solidify her unwavering devotion and her crucial role in Naruto’s growth and development.
FAQ 7: How is their relationship portrayed in the Boruto anime?
In the Boruto anime, Naruto and Hinata are depicted as a loving and supportive married couple. They have two children, Boruto and Himawari, and prioritize their family. Naruto, as Hokage, faces challenges balancing his duties with his family life, but Hinata provides unwavering support and understanding. Their relationship serves as a strong foundation for their family and a positive example for Boruto.
FAQ 8: Are there any fillers that explore Naruto and Hinata’s relationship more?
While there aren’t specific filler arcs dedicated solely to Naruto and Hinata’s romance, certain filler episodes provide glimpses into their interactions and Hinata’s feelings. However, these episodes shouldn’t be considered canon and primarily serve as lighthearted entertainment.
FAQ 9: How did the Naruto fanbase react to their relationship becoming canon?
The Naruto fanbase generally reacted positively to Naruto and Hinata’s relationship becoming canon. Many fans had long supported the pairing and were overjoyed to see their relationship finally solidified. While some fans may have preferred other pairings, the majority celebrated their union as a satisfying and heartwarming conclusion to their long-standing romance.
FAQ 10: Is it necessary to watch “The Last” before starting the Boruto anime?
While not strictly necessary to understand the basic plot of Boruto, watching “The Last” is highly recommended. It provides crucial context for Naruto and Hinata’s relationship, their marriage, and their family dynamic. Missing the movie can lead to confusion about their relationship and may diminish the emotional impact of certain scenes in the Boruto series.
FAQ 11: Where can I watch “The Last: Naruto the Movie”?
“The Last: Naruto the Movie” is typically available on streaming platforms that offer anime content, such as Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Hulu. It’s also often available for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play Movies.
FAQ 12: What makes the Naruto and Hinata relationship so appealing to fans?
The appeal of the Naruto and Hinata relationship lies in its slow-burn development, its emphasis on mutual respect and understanding, and its portrayal of unwavering devotion. It resonates with fans because it’s a grounded and relatable romance built on genuine affection and shared experiences. Their relationship is a testament to the power of perseverance, loyalty, and the transformative nature of love.
Beyond the Kiss: A Lasting Legacy
The kiss in “The Last: Naruto the Movie” is more than just a romantic milestone; it’s a culmination of years of character development and a testament to the enduring power of love and loyalty. It solidifies Naruto and Hinata’s relationship as one of the most beloved and significant pairings in the Naruto franchise, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with fans worldwide. The film solidifies that their bond, built on unwavering support and mutual admiration, is a vital part of the larger Naruto narrative and deeply significant to the subsequent Boruto series.