Naruto Shippuden the Movie (2007) Review – A Thrilling Ninja Adventure

Introduction

Naruto Shippuden the Movie (2007) is the first feature film set in the Naruto Shippuden timeline, marking a new chapter in Naruto Uzumaki’s journey. Directed by Hajime Kamegaki and written by Junki Takegami, the movie takes viewers on an action-packed adventure filled with intense battles, emotional moments, and a compelling storyline that adds depth to the Naruto universe. This review will dive deep into the movie’s plot, characters, animation, music, and overall impact, providing a comprehensive analysis while maintaining a strong SEO focus.

Plot Summary

The movie begins with an ominous prophecy foretelling Naruto Uzumaki’s death. A priestess named Shion from the Land of Demons possesses the ability to seal away powerful demons, and her life is threatened by an ancient evil force. A rogue ninja, Yomi, seeks to resurrect the demon Mōryō and conquer the world. Shion is the only one capable of sealing Mōryō, but she needs protection from Naruto and his team—Sakura Haruno, Neji Hyuga, and Rock Lee.

Despite the prophecy that he will die protecting Shion, Naruto refuses to accept his fate and vows to change destiny. The team embarks on a dangerous mission, facing off against Yomi’s minions, traversing treacherous landscapes, and uncovering the secrets behind Shion’s past and powers. The film culminates in an epic battle where Naruto defies fate, using his signature Rasengan to defeat Mōryō and save the world.

Character Development

Naruto Uzumaki

Naruto’s character remains consistent with his portrayal in the main series—brash, determined, and unwilling to accept predetermined fate. His belief in shaping his own destiny is a key theme in the movie, reinforcing one of Naruto Shippuden’s core messages.

Shion

Shion is a compelling addition to the Naruto universe. Initially appearing cold and aloof, she gradually develops a strong bond with Naruto. Her growth from a seemingly indifferent priestess to someone who values life and companionship adds depth to her character.

Supporting Cast

Sakura, Neji, and Rock Lee all have their moments, though their roles are secondary to Naruto and Shion. Neji’s strategic mind, Sakura’s medical skills, and Lee’s relentless energy contribute to the team’s success, showcasing their unique abilities in combat.

Villains

Yomi and his minions serve as formidable antagonists, but they lack the depth and complexity of villains from the main series. Yomi’s motivation to resurrect Mōryō is straightforward, making him a somewhat one-dimensional antagonist. However, Mōryō’s threat as an ancient, powerful entity adds a sense of urgency to the film’s narrative.

Animation and Art Style

The animation quality in Naruto Shippuden the Movie is impressive, particularly in battle sequences. The fluidity of movement, dynamic camera angles, and well-choreographed fights make for an engaging visual experience. The art style remains faithful to the Naruto Shippuden series, with vibrant colors and detailed backgrounds that enhance the movie’s world-building.

The depiction of the Land of Demons is visually striking, featuring mystical landscapes and ancient structures that differentiate it from other locations in the Naruto universe. The animation team successfully captures the essence of the supernatural elements, adding an eerie and mysterious ambiance to the film.

Music and Soundtrack

Toshio Masuda’s musical composition for Naruto Shippuden the Movie is both intense and emotional. The soundtrack complements the movie’s action-packed scenes and heartfelt moments, effectively enhancing the overall experience. The use of traditional Japanese instruments mixed with modern orchestral sounds creates a unique and immersive auditory experience.

The opening theme, Hero’s Come Back!! by Nobodyknows+, sets an energetic tone for the film, while the ending theme, Lie Lie Lie by DJ Ozma, brings a refreshing contrast with its upbeat and catchy melody. The voice acting is also commendable, with Junko Takeuchi delivering a powerful performance as Naruto, capturing his unwavering spirit and emotional depth.

Themes and Messages

Defying Fate

A recurring theme in the Naruto franchise is the idea of shaping one’s own destiny. The prophecy of Naruto’s death looms over the entire film, but he refuses to accept it. This reflects Naruto’s core philosophy—hard work and determination can overcome any obstacle, even fate itself.

Sacrifice and Duty

Shion’s role as a priestess emphasizes the theme of sacrifice. She initially accepts that she must die to fulfill her duty but later learns, through Naruto, that there is another way. The film explores the idea that duty should not come at the cost of one’s life, reinforcing the belief in alternative solutions to seemingly inescapable fates.

Companionship and Trust

Naruto’s interactions with Shion, as well as his unwavering trust in his teammates, highlight the importance of bonds and teamwork. Despite facing overwhelming odds, Naruto and his friends work together, demonstrating the strength found in unity and mutual support.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, Naruto Shippuden the Movie performed well at the box office, earning over ¥1.2 billion in Japan. Fans appreciated the high-energy action sequences and Naruto’s character development, though some critics noted that the story followed a somewhat predictable formula. Despite this, the film remains a beloved installment in the Naruto movie franchise.

From a legacy standpoint, Naruto Shippuden the Movie set the stage for future Naruto films by introducing darker themes and a more mature narrative. It also reinforced Naruto’s role as an inspirational protagonist who refuses to back down in the face of adversity.