Naruto is a Japanese anime television series based on Masashi Kishimoto’s best-selling manga of the same name. Animated by Studio Pierrot, this global sensation follows the journey of Naruto Uzumaki, a misfit orphan ninja with a dream to become Hokage—the leader of the Hidden Leaf Village. Divided into two parts—Naruto (2002–2007) and its sequel Naruto: Shippuden (2007–2017)—the anime series chronicled his evolution from an outcast to a hero revered across the ninja world. The franchise grew to include over 700 episodes, 11 films, 12 OVAs, and a cultural legacy that still thrives today.
Naruto – Official Trailer
What Is Naruto About?
At its heart, Naruto is about belonging, perseverance, and the bonds formed through shared struggle. The story begins with a tragedy: the Nine-Tailed Fox demon attacks the Hidden Leaf Village, and the Fourth Hokage sacrifices himself by sealing the beast inside his newborn son, Naruto Uzumaki. Ostracized for a fate he didn’t choose, Naruto grows up misunderstood and alone—but with an unbreakable spirit.
He forms Team 7 alongside prodigy Sasuke Uchiha and intelligent Sakura Haruno, under the guidance of elite ninja Kakashi Hatake. From simple missions to life-and-death battles, Naruto’s path is shaped by allies and enemies alike, including legendary Sannin, Akatsuki, and other powerful shinobi. The sequel series Shippuden picks up after a time skip, plunging the ninja world into a full-scale war with apocalyptic stakes.
Is Naruto Worth Watching?
Yes—Naruto is one of the most influential and emotionally rich anime series ever created. Here’s why it’s worth your time:
-
- Character Development: From Naruto and Sasuke to even side characters like Shikamaru and Hinata, the series provides long-term growth and payoff.
- Thematic Depth: Explores trauma, redemption, loneliness, and generational legacy.
- Epic Fights: Some of anime’s most iconic battles—Naruto vs. Sasuke, Jiraiya vs. Pain, Kakashi vs. Obito—are here.
- Legacy & Influence: Inspired memes (Naruto run), conventions, spinoffs, and even Area 51 raids.
- Complete Journey: The story begins and ends with clear arcs, giving a satisfying full-circle experience.
Watch Order: Naruto Series and Films
Chronological Watch Order
-
- Naruto (2002–2007) – Episodes 1–220
- Naruto: Shippuden (2007–2017) – Episodes 1–500
- The Last: Naruto the Movie (set between end of Shippuden and Boruto)
- Boruto: Naruto the Movie (optional follow-up)
- Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (Ongoing series about Naruto’s son)
Naruto Films in Order
| Film Title | Year | Series |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow | 2004 | Naruto |
| Legend of the Stone of Gelel | 2005 | Naruto |
| Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom | 2006 | Naruto |
| Naruto Shippuden the Movie | 2007 | Shippuden |
| Bonds | 2008 | Shippuden |
| The Will of Fire | 2009 | Shippuden |
| The Lost Tower | 2010 | Shippuden |
| Blood Prison | 2011 | Shippuden |
| Road to Ninja | 2012 | Shippuden |
| The Last: Naruto the Movie | 2014 | Post-Shippuden |
| Boruto: Naruto the Movie | 2015 | Sequel |
Naruto – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the difference between Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden?
Shippuden is a direct sequel that continues Naruto’s journey after a 2.5-year training gap. It has a more mature tone, advanced character arcs, and bigger stakes.
Do I need to watch the Naruto movies?
The movies are mostly standalone, but The Last and Boruto are canon and relevant to the main story’s conclusion and future setup.
Is it okay to skip filler episodes?
Yes. Many fans skip non-canon filler arcs to stay focused on the main plot. Episode guides online can help you navigate this.
Why is Naruto so popular worldwide?
It balances action with emotion, has universally relatable characters, and delivers consistent narrative growth over hundreds of episodes. Its themes of loneliness, friendship, and self-worth resonate deeply.
Where can I stream Naruto?
Naruto and Shippuden are available on Crunchyroll, Netflix (limited regions), Hulu, and Funimation, with both sub and dub options.
Naruto Voice Cast – Key Characters
| Character | Japanese VA | English VA |
|---|---|---|
| Naruto Uzumaki | Junko Takeuchi | Maile Flanagan |
| Sasuke Uchiha | Noriaki Sugiyama | Yuri Lowenthal |
| Sakura Haruno | Chie Nakamura | Kate Higgins |
| Kakashi Hatake | Kazuhiko Inoue | Dave Wittenberg |
| Hinata Hyuga | Nana Mizuki | Stephanie Sheh |
| Jiraiya | Hōchū Ōtsuka | David Lodge |
| Itachi Uchiha | Hideo Ishikawa | Crispin Freeman |
| Gaara | Akira Ishida | Liam O’Brien |
Conclusion – A Ninja’s Tale That Defined a Generation
Naruto is more than a coming-of-age ninja story—it’s a journey about confronting pain, embracing bonds, and never giving up. Whether it’s Naruto’s rise from zero to hero, Sasuke’s redemption, or Kakashi’s quiet burden, the show leaves a lasting impression.
Through humor, heartbreak, and unforgettable action, Naruto delivers a narrative that transcends its genre and becomes something timeless. It’s an anime that builds a world—then teaches you to believe in your place within it.
Naruto Shippuden – Official Trailer
If you don’t know where to watch this Anime for FREE make sure to contact me via E-mail, or in the comments below. Thank you for reading and make sure to bookmark the site.