[Review] Naruto Shippuuden Movie 2: Bonds

Recently I watched Naruto Shippuden Movie #2, entitled "Bonds". After months away from the series, this was my first taste of the anime. Well, sort of. After all, this is was a theatrical release and not some sort of lame filler.

Without giving too much away, I do have to say that this movie has much to offer. Unlike the new content created for the show, this movie presented a well-written plot, great action scenes, intense action, and even a formidable villain. But more importantly, its presentation didn't settle for a "filler feel" that the tangential arcs are guilty of forcing to the fans.

You know, "Naruto filler". That whole "show the enemy the light" idea. Or the "here's your villain of the week". Or that exaggerative "suddenly I'll force a 180 on you, just to hasten the plot" anime element. I'll admit there was a bit of "here's a concept we'll tie in to attempt to give it credibility", but this time around it made enough sense to accept upfront.

Yet it was still littered with all of the necessary elements to make this "classic Naruto" - inclusion of the extended cast, unexpected (and occasionally playful) twists, sappy (and "aww") moments, heroic sacrifice, having some new person connect to Naruto, the power of friendship/love, Naruto's promise - all that good stuff. Hell, it even had Sasuke.

I won't say it was five-star movie, but for Naruto, it was pretty impressive. I was legitimately surprised and entertained. So if you were ever a fan of the show, I recommend checking it out.

Oh, and make sure to watch it through the credits. There's a nice little bit at the end.