Naruto Shipuuden Season 1 Talkback

[Rolling Cloud]

apparently, this week's Shippuden covers 41 3/4 pages, which is :eek: By Shippuden's standards!

[Mugen]

apparently, this week's Shippuden covers 41 3/4 pages, which is :eek: By Shippuden's standards!

Is this the first time Shippuuden has adapted that many chapters?

[Rolling Cloud]

Is this the first time Shippuuden has adapted that many chapters?

yes, it certainly is. Usually, we've been stuck with 1 - 1.5 chapters. :sweat:

If we stay on this trail, we'll be golden.

[Captain Highwind]

Hm. So it sounds like I should watch this series in 25-episode blocks.

I'm picturing Sasuke-vs.-Orochimaru-fighting-in-the-Forest-of-Death quality, btw. Did they get Gainax again?

[Funkatron]

Wow. This is how Shippuden should look. That whole fight was frelling awesome.

[Captain Zechs]

What episode are we on again?

[Funkatron]

What episode are we on again?

26. This one was the best one yet this arc. A big ass frenetic battle. The animation team did an awesome job animating this one.

[Katsumara]

Best episode of Shippuden by far. I was just amazed at how well the animation team got the movements so fluid and the action so fast-paced. The fact that it covered over 2 chapters was also amazing. I have been drawing away further and further from watching Naruto lately due to the sheer snail's pace we've been moving, but this DEFINITATELY made up for it. Just watched it with poorer quality, but gonna watch it again in HQ very soon.

God, so awesome. On epic scales, I'd actually compare it to 133-136. It was THAT good.. at least to me. I just hope it keeps this trend.

[Captain Highwind]

I just hope it keeps this trend.

It probably won't, since chapter stretching seems to be taking place of filler. But this episode still sounds like really good news. At least it gives people something to look forward to, assuming they do this for the rest of the arcs.

[Katsumara]

It probably won't, since chapter stretching seems to be taking place of filler. But this episode still sounds like really good news. At least it gives people something to look forward to, assuming they do this for the rest of the arcs.

It was an amazing episode and yeah, I hate it that the trend of awesome episodes won't continue. I just hope it doesn't take 25 episodes to get to each awesome episode. ><

[FlyByNite77]

Wow episode 26 was just so friggin amazingly better then anything in Shippuuden so far and there's been some pretty good episodes.

Maybe it's because the episode is such a stark contrast from some of the previous ones in this recent arc and the animation is just a lot more markedly better and because it covers a lot more ground and doesn't have as much 'stalling' as previous episodes (which to be fair the manga provides a lot of the stalling in it).

But wowsers. Sakura FTMFW.

[Mr. Toto]

Oh man, not only was that the best looking Shippuuden episode so far, but it's one of the best looking ones period. The animation quality was insanely high, and the characters stayed on model the entire time. The fight sequences were epic! I had no idea it would be this good. Just amazing.

[Kyuss]

While I'm not one to support false hope, I am willing to believe the chances of improvement are there considering one can only go so far down before one must ascend.

[Captain Highwind]

26

This feels soooo Gainax. Especially when Sakura threw the chakra nullifier at Sasori. Except they didn't get that cool lighting effect like their previous episodes in Part I, so I'm skeptical if it really was them.

After all this, you have to admit this fight is getting really complicated. But that's a good thing. Out of all of the episodes I've seen, I think Sasori has to be the most complex villain to fight so far. I mean, I was pretty squeamish when he started using the water jets (c'mon he put out a cloud in the sky for Pete's sake--no way you can dodge that stuff).

[Katsumara]

26

This feels soooo Gainax. Especially when Sakura threw the chakra nullifier at Sasori. Except they didn't get that cool lighting effect like their previous episodes in Part I, so I'm skeptical if it really was them.

After all this, you have to admit this fight is getting really complicated. But that's a good thing. Out of all of the episodes I've seen, I think Sasori has to be the most complex villain to fight so far. I mean, I was pretty squeamish when he started using the water jets (c'mon he put out a cloud in the sky for Pete's sake--no way you can dodge that stuff).

Yeah, that part was awesome when he turned his water-cannon thing into a highly pressured watershot. The way he cut the rocks and then the cloud was nifty.

Also, don't watch the preview for the next episode. Spoilers.
I lol'd when Sakura yelled "HELL YEAH!" when she punched the dog crap out of Sasori. Also, I agree about how complex he is. Kimimaro was pretty complex with his Bone jutsu and bloodline, and all the skills he could use, but by just pure complexity of the body, and the abilities the body can perform, I do agree about Sasori. He's an awesome villain to say the least.

[MessyB]

I love the generally slower pacing of Shipuuden, but this was a great episode, too. Foreplay and climax.

[buttah]

Wow great episode I think it may be the best one yet, probably because of no Gai doing the same thing over and over again. Hopefully they won't leave us with this one episode and continue with animation as good or just a little worse than this.

[Knighthammer]

Don't have much time to comment now but I do have to say.

This episode is EPIC WIN

GREAT episode!

[mikestorm]

They are just gonna chop and screw the current opening, they will turn 20 seconds into 90, wait for it!

Holy One Piece batman!

[Kaiser0120]

Those Who Fight Puppets: Sakura and Chiyo VS. Sasori's 100 Puppet Army (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8009211701516438305&hl=en)

I made this yesterday after I had a total fangasm over the episode, so I hope people enjoy it.

[Captain Highwind]

Those Who Fight Puppets: Sakura and Chiyo VS. Sasori's 100 Puppet Army (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8009211701516438305&hl=en)

I made this yesterday after I had a total fangasm over the episode, so I hope people enjoy it.
Nice use of hit combos and Victory Fanfare. ^^

[mikestorm]

Those Who Fight Puppets: Sakura and Chiyo VS. Sasori's 100 Puppet Army (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8009211701516438305&hl=en)

I made this yesterday after I had a total fangasm over the episode, so I hope people enjoy it.

Amazingly done, and the ending made me laugh :)

[bigdeath]

Now this fight was what I expect from naruto!

And that fan music video's ending was so perfect, we finally get to see sakuras victory pose.

Also, Sakura fought well for the first time in her life! she should be proud. :p

[NelStone]

Having watched episode 26, I must say that was the most fun I've had watching Naruto in a long time. The animation, the epic music, the ending... pure win.

[letsplaynikaboo]

yup! nice ep. sakura's really proven herself. i love watching her fight =]

[GWOtaku]

I have to agree. Just when it seemed like Shippuden was prematurely jumping the shark, episode 26 comes along and reminds us how good this show can and is supposed to be. Great action focusing on the actual fight of this arc, and yeah the music was well above average for this episode. The animation didn't suck and was pretty fluid. The whole fight with the legion of puppets could've been weak but was extremely well depicted, lots of detail and chaos. Definitely a five star episode after two or three that would've been lucky to get a two in my book.

[beren]

This episode was alright but no where near what the sasuke retrival arc was in terms of quality of animation and music. Watch em back to back to see the diffrence, not on youtube.

[kidx]

Those Who Fight Puppets: Sakura and Chiyo VS. Sasori's 100 Puppet Army (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8009211701516438305&hl=en)

I made this yesterday after I had a total fangasm over the episode, so I hope people enjoy it.
It was good, but in the title on Google video you have Sasori and Chiyo vs Sasori.:anime:

[Kaiser0120]

It was good, but in the title on Google video you have Sasori and Chiyo vs Sasori.:anime:

Thank you for telling me that, I totally missed it!

[Knighthammer]

Episode 27:

Sasori is defeated, we get to see Mangekyo unleashed by Kakashi and appearently next fight is going to FINALLY end the horror that is Team Gai's fight. Seriously, I think they could make a great horror flick out of those fights at this point. The marketing writes itself!

Now in the wake this, I do gotta chastise all of this a bit.

First the good --- Episode 26: BEST EPISODE in the series to date. It may even top Rock Lee vs Gaara in terms of best fight scenes. I can't give it credit for best fight because Sakuara & Chiyo vs Sasori's fight in of itself took SEVEN episodes where it probably could have been knocked down to 3 or 4. Episode 27 was a closure episode so it's nothing I think anyone would be inclined to complain about at all.

Being only on episode 27, my linger questions are:
#1.) Do we *REALLY* need to watch 10 mediocre episodes to get one mind blowing one?
#2.) Has Studio Periot learned to try to mitigate this from happening again ?

My personal hope is that we can move forward now with the series not having months of nothing happening again. If we need filler, there are certainly well proven ways to provide that without this. Maybe Naruto is working under the three strikes rule?

Strike 1: Over a hundred episodes of filler in the original series
Strike 2: So much bad filler in Shippuden it almost completely ruined a really good fight.

Earlier handling of filler was marvelous in Shippuden. Lets hope for more of that as we move forward.

Now lets see how the horror movie that is Team Gai's fight ends!

[FireStarterLE]

i thought the second TV intro (and not the movie promo thing) was supposed to start with this episode?

Guess whoever said that got bad information

[Dark Soul]

The episode was alright. It concluded the fight with Sasori (finally). Kakashi finally unleashes the Mangekyo (after 3 episodes of waiting). Nothing much else it was just a conclusion to Episode 26.

We finally see the fight with Kakashi/Naruto vs Deidara next episode. I really hope the pacing is better and not slugish like the last fight.

[Superior]

The episode was alright. It concluded the fight with Sasori (finally). Kakashi finally unleashes the Mangekyo (after 3 episodes of waiting). Nothing much else it was just a conclusion to Episode 26.

We finally see the fight with Kakashi/Naruto vs Deidara next episode. I really hope the pacing is better and not slugish like the last fight.Agreed. I did like the Elder Chiyo/Sakura vs Sasori fight, along with the action, but I didn't like the sluggishness of it. Should be a good battle next episode. :cool:

[Kaiser0120]

I just hope that the next episode has a truly remarkable fight with Team Gai if the end of their fight is really going to be the focus. Personally, I'm hoping that it will actually cover two chapters of the manga, speeding through the actual canon material and giving us some quick action with Gai, Ten-Ten, Lee and Neji to pad the edges, just making the episode move fast and furious.

Realistically? One chapter of the manga, the other half Team Gai. Oh well, should be interesting anyway~!

[Kazuya Prower]

i thought the second TV intro (and not the movie promo thing) was supposed to start with this episode?

Guess whoever said that got bad information

That was me, my mistake. This is usually the case with Naruto.

[Knighthammer]

We finally see the fight with Kakashi/Naruto vs Deidara next episode. I really hope the pacing is better and not slugish like the last fight.

I would suggest rewatching the preview bud. Next episode is Team Gai's conclusion.

Based on the preview, its gonna be a complete filler episode BUT if done right could be very good. We'll have to wait and see.

I suggest rolling dice and praying to your respective gods the episode next week doesn't suck!

[Mr. Obsession]

Originally Shipuuden's pacing didn't bother me. In fact I've rather enjoyed some of the padding, like the second bell test and Sasori's background. Things seemed to slow down to a pace that became annoying around the end of the Deidara/Gaara fight. Now, while I'm waiting to see how the next few episodes turn out, these last two have felt much closer to what we were getting at the beginning of the series. So what I'm wondering is, were the last, say, dozen episodes produced in conjunction with the movie, resulting in their less than satisfactory to the fans pacing?

If that's the case, the movie better be damn good to make up for what we were getting.

[bigdeath]

I love Sasori, he was a great monster of a villian. And you almost felt sorry for him at the end, almost. :sweat:

This was a great eppy. Pace is a bit slow but it was still great. :anime:

[FireStarterLE]

That was me, my mistake. This is usually the case with Naruto.

well even at a few other places it has this episode listed as the beginning of season 2, oh well no biggie it'll happen eventually

[purplehairedwonder]

I had been having some Naruto-apathy lately (I know, gasp, right?) so finally just had a big marathon of 22-27 and I will say that 26 stuck out of the bunch as frelling amazing. Lots of canon material was covered, the animation looked great, and the music during the battle scenes was an awesome companion. That was really what Shippuuden should and still can be.

Next week looks like it's gonna be a pure filler episode with Team Gai finishing their fights against their clones, but if handled correctly could be very good. Or if it's handled poorly could be very bad... but I prefer the optimistic approach.

Here's hoping for more episode 26 quality episodes to come in the future.

[TnAdct1]

Next week looks like it's gonna be a pure filler episode with Team Gai finishing their fights against their clones, but if handled correctly could be very good. Or if it's handled poorly could be very bad... but I prefer the optimistic approach. Actually, the next Naruto won't air until the 13th.

[Rolling Cloud]

Actually, the next Naruto won't air until the 13th.

What's preempting it? :confused:

[bigdeath]

Here's hoping for more episode 26 quality episodes to come in the future.

Amen :)

[Kyuss]

bigdeath,

I'm hopeful for something in the mid-40s/mid-50s to be as good as 26. Certainly the fight I've been interested in for some time will finally get some animation treatment.

[Meh]

My question to everyone here is; How long is the ravine/canyon and how many logs/tree trunks could there possibly be? Why are there tree trunks in the sides of the canyon in the first place? D:

[Strollymonster]

My question to everyone here is; How long is the ravine/canyon and how many logs/tree trunks could there possibly be? Why are there tree trunks in the sides of the canyon in the first place? D:

It's the ninja equivalent of Spiderman's off-screen web-swinging. Sure, no one knows what they're attached to, just keep on moving and more trees will keep showing up.

Haven't you ever wondered where they keep getting logs for the substitutions from? It usually works okay when they're in the woods, and even then, it's always a smaller one that's been precut. Either they manage to find a tree, cut off a chunk, and then zip back in less than a second, or someone in the Naruto world just wanders around littering cut logs wherever they go like a Japanese Johnny Appleseed.

[Kaiser0120]

Haven't you ever wondered where they keep getting logs for the substitutions from? It usually works okay when they're in the woods, and even then, it's always a smaller one that's been precut. Either they manage to find a tree, cut off a chunk, and then zip back in less than a second, or someone in the Naruto world just wanders around littering cut logs wherever they go like a Japanese Johnny Appleseed.

I thought we could all just comfortably call that, "Ninja Majeek." I mean, between summoning giant toads and turning clay into explosives with creepy hand-mouths, I would suppose Insta-Logging wouldn't be too extreme.

[Meh]

It's the ninja equivalent of Spiderman's off-screen web-swinging. Sure, no one knows what they're attached to, just keep on moving and more trees will keep showing up.

Haven't you ever wondered where they keep getting logs for the substitutions from? It usually works okay when they're in the woods, and even then, it's always a smaller one that's been precut. Either they manage to find a tree, cut off a chunk, and then zip back in less than a second, or someone in the Naruto world just wanders around littering cut logs wherever they go like a Japanese Johnny Appleseed.
Just call him, Naruto Appleseed.

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/197/narutoappleseedun2.jpg

[Knighthammer]

Just call him, Naruto Appleseed.

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/197/narutoappleseedun2.jpg

Ok, I know people are thinking it but I gotta say it.

If Naruto would make a habbit of wearing that pot instead of his headband he'd be less likely to suffer head truma from Sakura.

[NelStone]

From the look on his face, I'd say it's too late for that lol.

[FireStarterLE]

ANN has that intro #2 will start with ep. 31

And the song will be Asian Kung-Fu Generation's new single entitled "After Dark", which is being released in November (probably around the same time the episode airs)

[Rolling Cloud]

ANN has that intro #2 will start with ep. 31

And the song will be Asian Kung-Fu Generation's new single entitled "After Dark", which is being released in November (probably around the same time the episode airs)

COOOL~! Any intro by them should be good at least, in my opinion.

[bigdeath]

ANN has that intro #2 will start with ep. 31

And the song will be Asian Kung-Fu Generation's new single entitled "After Dark", which is being released in November (probably around the same time the episode airs)

I can't wait to see that op. :anime:

[Mad Mod 49]

Also, Sakura fought well for the first time in her life! she should be proud.


Sakura vs. Ino.

Your sentence = Failed. :evil:

[bigdeath]

Sakura vs. Ino.

Your sentence = Failed. :evil:

I don't count fight that ends in a tie without sakura using any special skills as fighting well.

[Mad Mod 49]

I don't count fight that ends in a tie without sakura using any special skills as fighting well.


Sorry, but I'm going to take Kakashi's word over yours here, he outright said that Sakura fought well in that fight, special skills or no special skills (Real life ninjas didn't have alot of special skills...does that mean they didn't fight well?) :shrug:

And the tie counting as not fighting well makes no sense whatsoever. Lee not only lost, but was forever crippled by Gaara. Does that mean that he didn't fight well and that all of Gai's statements about him being an excellent ninja was BS then?

[Kyuss]

Kakashi was just being nice. The fact is Sakura had a MUCH greater/evolved fighting skill after her training with Tsunade. While the fight with Ino proved she had Genin skills, it wasn't enough to elevate her to Chunin level. That only occurred after her training with Tsunade.

[kaine23]

I thought we could all just comfortably call that, "Ninja Majeek." I mean, between summoning giant toads and turning clay into explosives with creepy hand-mouths, I would suppose Insta-Logging wouldn't be too extreme.

it's Log, it's Log, it's big, it's heavy, it's wood!

[Kyuss]

And here I was hoping to the All Father that someone wouldn't do that...

Again my hopes are dashed on the rocks of stupidity/trivia.

[bigdeath]

Sorry, but I'm going to take Kakashi's word over yours here, he outright said that Sakura fought well in that fight, special skills or no special skills (Real life ninjas didn't have alot of special skills...does that mean they didn't fight well?) :shrug:

And the tie counting as not fighting well makes no sense whatsoever. Lee not only lost, but was forever crippled by Gaara. Does that mean that he didn't fight well and that all of Gai's statements about him being an excellent ninja was BS then?

Ah, but this is an anime and not real life. Sakura vs Ino was a little boring compared to the other fights so thats why we give her no credit for the fight. This recent fight was great, far better then vs Ino so now I'd say she finnally learn to fight. Even after Sakura vs Ino, Sakura didn't seem useful in a battle to her team mates but now she does. :D

Ties not counting as fighting makes sense when you are watching an anime for great battles. ;) The tie was a bit of a let down just like when you watch a boxing match and it ends in a tie. Its anti-climatic.

[Kyuss]

bigdeath,

As always, your logic is inescapable. I'm just wondering if you agree with my analysis of what the evolution of her fight with Ino proved.

[Knighthammer]

If nothing else, Sakura must have learned that her lack of a specialization was a handy cap on some level.


The incident in the Bridge Builder saga certainly started that thinking.
The incident in the Forest of Death drove it home when Sakura was forced to BITE her opponent!
The battle vs Ino should have driven it homeThose three incidents should have driven home the fact Sakura needs SOME KIND of specialization.

[Kyuss]

Certainly it would have shown that having an ace of some kind, Mister Paladin named Knight Hammer, is far more helpful than just being smarter than the rest of your squad.

[bigdeath]

bigdeath,

As always, your logic is inescapable. I'm just wondering if you agree with my analysis of what the evolution of her fight with Ino proved.

Could you repeat that analysis or show me the post. To me, Sakura vs ino showed the Sakura finnally gained the will to fight. Now she has actually ability and I do think she proved she one of the top ninjas in the village hidden in the leaves.

[Kyuss]

Merely this post: My analysis (http://forums.toonzone.net/showpost.php?p=2646209&postcount=557)

[Mad Mod 49]

Kakashi was just being nice.

Uh-huh...I kind of doubt Kakashi would waste his time thinking nice thoughts. Remember, he didn't just outright say it, he thought it. If he didn't really mean it, why the hell did he think it?

Sakura vs Ino was a little boring compared to the other fights so thats why we give her no credit for the fight.

Which, in effect, shows just how shallow your combat expectations are. :yawn:

[SigmasonicX]

Yes, because it's so silly of us to expect a good fight from a fighting series.

Anyway, the problem is not so much that Sakura didn't fight well during her battle with Ino, it's that she was completely and absolutely useless after that point. That, and compared to the other characters, Sakura didn't exactly do anything that impressive during the fight, as opposed to this fight with Sasori.

Unfortunately, so far in the manga, it looks like the former will still apply to Sakura.

[bigdeath]

I think where dealing with a Sakura fanboy so we are not going to win this arguement.

Its alright to be a fanboy because a hinata fanboy and have swore to defend the cute shy girl till she gets together with naruto. It will happen, believe it! :p

[Rolling Cloud]

New topic...episode that debuted today!

Discuss....

[Kyuss]

I would, however I've yet to see it.

bigdeath,

Understandable since I too am a fan of Hinata's. Not because she's cares so much for Naruto, merely because a factor of genetics.

[Kaiser0120]

Well, it was the worst case scenario. An entire episode dedicated to The Gai Team beating their clones.

*Goes back to watch the whole episode before commenting on it.*

Edit: Ok, so... that was... um... mediocre animation and a lame way to end the fight. 5/10

[mikestorm]

Listen to the score during the beginning of episode 28. It sounds exactly like something you'd hear in Inuyasha. You'll know what I mean when you hear it.

[Knighthammer]

OMG, that was BIBLICAL in terms of suck! BIBLICAL!!!!

"We have to become stronger then we were when we first pulled the seal off"

Wow; I think the best part of this episode was seeing the chase scene again.

I do admit, at the end of the episode I laughed --- at how bad it was. Consequently I think I have cancer now! I suggest everyone wear their anti-cancer garments before participating in this episode!

[NelStone]

Yeah, that was pretty much a waste of time...

So, next is an hour special?

[GWOtaku]

28 was terrible. I cannot believe how lifeless the animation in this series can get. Punches and kicks don't feel powerful, movement is undetailed and made to look sluggish. Part 1 Naruto on its worst day was never, ever this bad. Part 1 filler isn't well thought of by quite a few fans, but you know what? They didn't slack on the action in part 1. When people moved fast it LOOKED fast.

I'm getting pretty concerned about this show. When its good its really good, but at these times like these I can't honestly say that I find it worth watching. In the future if it even looks like they're going to do anything not in the manga I'm just going to not bother. Watching a Gundam SEED clip episode is more exciting, watching Nanoha StrikerS at half speed would be more exciting. It just falls totally flat.

[Mugen]

Did they go back to adapting one chapter a episode after 26?

[Mr. Toto]

Did they go back to adapting one chapter a episode after 26?
Episode 27 actually covered 2 chapters as well.

If the preview is any indication, then episode 29 and 30 bring us back to crap quality for the series. And just when I got my hopes up too...

[Captain Highwind]

28

For a second I thought Lee was going to say, "Imitate each others' techniques," but whatever. It's done with.

Yay--this arc ends in the next special. Finally.

[Kaiser0120]

28

For a second I thought Lee was going to say, "Imitate each others' techniques," but whatever. It's done with.

Yay--this arc ends in the next special. Finally.

Actually, it looks to end with the episode AFTER the special. That's when the new opening starts.

Though, unfortunately, no-one knows what the opening is going to be. Here I was, hoping for a new Asian Kung-Fu Generation song and, suddenly, it goes to Bleach.

Then again, it needs it after this latest opening... guh. *Hates ALONES by Aqua Timez... but then again, loves Rolling Star by Yui, which doesn't seem to be a popular theme.*

[Captain Highwind]

Actually, it looks to end with the episode AFTER the special. That's when the new opening starts.


Oh I know there will be some epilogue to cap off the arc in at least one episode after the special, but I thought they'd drag out Naruto and Kakashi's fight with Deidara just like they did with Sakura's.

[Rolling Cloud]

Then again, it needs it after this latest opening... guh. *Hates ALONES by Aqua Timez... but then again, loves Rolling Star by Yui, which doesn't seem to be a popular theme.*

*points to sig* =]

anyway, I read on ANN that a certain kid who's name begins with S should appear by episode(s) 33-34. ^_^ (manga readers know who I mean)

[Kyuss]

Cloud,

Are you referring to this anime or Bleach? If you meant this one, it's a tad earlier unless you mean the other emo/non-emo kid. I'm more interested in seeing the guy with the name that begins with Y myself. I'm curious how they'll have him sound.

Regardless at least my estimate for 2008 for the arc people want to see is within the ballpark regardless of how long it took us to get here.

[Rolling Cloud]

Cloud,

Are you referring to this anime or Bleach? If you meant this one, it's a tad earlier unless you mean the other emo/non-emo kid.

I'm referring to Sai since the ep. title for 33 referenced him and 34 had his name in it.

[Kyuss]

Cloud,

I see. Where have you seen these episode titled pray tell?

[Rolling Cloud]

Cloud,

I see. Where have you seen these episode titled pray tell?

ANN! ^_^

Right here! (caution: spoilers) (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=7293&page=25)

[Kyuss]

Cloud,

Ah! I do admit to looking at ANN, but only as it regards to upcoming anime, not current ones. Thank you for that tidbit of information.

[Knighthammer]

Wow, that either implies the next fight is either gonna be really awesome or pure pain to watch.

If the fight lasts no more then four episodes, I'm expecting a good fight.

The last fight could have been done in 4 episodes or less and been made A LOT better.

[Kyuss]

Paladin Knight of Hammer,

I imagine that it will only be 2 episodes and then back to exposition followed by the next arc.

[bigdeath]

So is that naruto and garra eppy a Yaoi special?

(yeah, very BAD joke) :evil:

[Kyuss]

bigdeath,

No but you and I are both aware of such an occurrence later on in the story. It, however, deals with to others not name Garaa or Naruto, even though the latter is responsible for the incident in some way.

[Knighthammer]

this both freights and terrifies me

[Kyuss]

Paladin Knight of Hammer,

You'd be surprised but then again it did startle a number of people. Fan girls were dying of squee at the time.

[FlyByNite77]

I always thought the best way to have ended the clone fight would have been a trade-off where they switch to other opponents.

Logical would have been Lee vs Neji, Tenten vs Gai

I don't think Tenten could fight anyone else on the team, but she could have led her clone over to Gai and Gai would have killed it in like 2 seconds so then some of the weapons she could throw at Gai's clone might have distracted it long enough for Gai to then kill it.

Then being able to see two Rock Lee vs Neji fights going on at the same time would have been epic ;)

[Kyuss]

Fly,

Sadly while your though process on this subject was excellent, it was sadly not to be.

[Knighthammer]

Even though the LOGICAL way to end this would have been to either trade partners or group together and take down one at a time while containing others the filler AT LEAST suggested something that could have been more 'epic' in a non-failing way.

When Lee said "We need to be more powerful" I EXPECTED Gate Openings. I was kind of hoping (and dreading the idea) that Gai taught Tenten and Neji how to AT LEAST open the first gate. I know its filler and thats not true of canon. AT LEAST Gai and Lee could have opened a few gates and knocked them off and then helped their team mates.

[Kyuss]

Paladin Knight of Hammer,

Sadly, it was not to be.

[SigmasonicX]

I made clips of the most QUALITY moments of the episode:

Team Guy is filled with idiots. (http://youtube.com/watch?v=2B5hUpl5kKM)
Lee's GENIUS plan. (http://youtube.com/watch?v=9uwVl1P25y8)

[Prdgn]

Paladin Knight of Hammer,

Sadly, it was not to be.

Not meaning to be rude, but why don't you just use the quote feature?

[Kyuss]

Prdgn,

Why? Is there some reason I need to? If I happen to decide to address someone, shouldn't I use their name?

SigmasonicX,

Good clips. Bad episode.

[bigdeath]

Not meaning to be rude, but why don't you just use the quote feature?

Because worm gods don't use the quote feature. Didn't you learn anything in high school? ;) :p

[beren]

I hope Pain's other tricks are better.

[Kyuss]

Beren,

We will see won't we?

bigdeath,

There also that factor as well.

[MessyB]

Even though the LOGICAL way to end this would have been to either trade partners or group together and take down one at a time while containing others the filler AT LEAST suggested something that could have been more 'epic' in a non-failing way.

Again, neither of those would have been logical. If you try to get Real-Gai to kill Clone-Ten Ten, Clone-Gai kills Real-Ten Ten just as easily. Throw in the fact that the writers then added that the Clones aren't getting tired while the Reals are, it just makes that even worse. So while I agree that 27 was epic fail, there was absolutely no way to resolve this in a satisfactory way. The authors totally blew this, writing themselves into a corner. Like Prof. Farnsworth says, perfectly symmetrical violence never solves anything.

[Captain Highwind]

Like Prof. Farnsworth says, perfectly symmetrical violence never solves anything.

You know, this arc would have been more fun had it turned out that way.

[Knighthammer]

Again, neither of those would have been logical. If you try to get Real-Gai to kill Clone-Ten Ten, Clone-Gai kills Real-Ten Ten just as easily. Throw in the fact that the writers then added that the Clones aren't getting tired while the Reals are, it just makes that even worse. So while I agree that 27 was epic fail, there was absolutely no way to resolve this in a satisfactory way. The authors totally blew this, writing themselves into a corner. Like Prof. Farnsworth says, perfectly symmetrical violence never solves anything.

Thats taking what I said out of context buddy.

Notice I stated to RESTRAIN someone first THEN take out one or more based on who you could restrain and for how long.

The down side to Team Gai is they don't really have any one adept restraint techniques. The VERY CLOSEST might be Neji breaking off someones Chakara to which he could REALLY only do that to Tenten Clone or MAYBE Tenten has some sort of rope in endless aresonal and a trick to restrain clone Gai or clone Lee.

[MessyB]

Thats taking what I said out of context buddy.

Notice I stated to RESTRAIN someone first THEN take out one or more based on who you could restrain and for how long.


The writers made these Clones incredibly sophisticated. If they try to restrain one of the Clones, then the other Clones will try to restrain that Real. There's no winning when it's perfectly symmetrical. The whole thing was just a convoluted plot disaster, no wonder the manga just ignored it.

[Kyuss]

Messy,

Perhaps they should just consider a suicide run or something to that effect. Summonings perhaps.

[bigdeath]

Messy,

Perhaps they should just consider a suicide run or something to that effect. Summonings perhaps.

perhaps they should have skiped it like in the manga. I'm in that school of thought; this was a disaster.

[Kyuss]

bigdeath,

That consideration had come to me as well. Though I admit, I had hoped the anime might work a way to be more creative and interesting.

[Knighthammer]

Personally, I'm under in the camp (or creating the camp) that believes everything involving Team Gai and clones must be packaged up and hidden in a dark room far below the earth's crust marked "Ultimate WMD - Opening will bring the end of all life".

[Kyuss]

Paladin Knight of Hammer,

Sadly I doubt that will occur for your sake. While it is true those episodes are pretty darn crummy, my belief that after we move past this arc, the second and third arcs will help to increase the over all quality of Shippuden. After all, when you've hit the bottom of Hell where else can you go? Maybe the Abyss but that's doubtful.

[Knighthammer]

Paladin Knight of Hammer,

Sadly I doubt that will occur for your sake. While it is true those episodes are pretty darn crummy, my belief that after we move past this arc, the second and third arcs will help to increase the over all quality of Shippuden. After all, when you've hit the bottom of Hell where else can you go? Maybe the Abyss but that's doubtful.

Hell has a bottom?

I thought it went down FOREVER

[purplehairedwonder]

I just caught up with 28-30 tonight and it was an interesting mix. Twenty-eight really was meh. "They seem to be getting stronger since we're getting tired." NO WAI! ><

But 29 and 30 were a different case. I really felt like I was watching actual Naruto with these episodes. I guess they only covered about two chapters in them, but I felt the pacing was much better and it didn't really feel like it was dragging very much. So with this arc winding down, hopefully the better pacing will stick around since we've had several decent episodes lately.

[Meh]

Personally, I'm under in the camp (or creating the camp) that believes everything involving Team Gai and clones must be packaged up and hidden in a dark room far below the earth's crust marked "Ultimate WMD - Opening will bring the end of all life".
Aww.. You mean you didn't find it funny that they had to be told that they're human and eventually get tired?

*Edit oh poo I was already beat to that joke. :(

[Scirel]

Hey, here's an idea.

How many episodes would there be ever since the charachters split up into three teams if they followed the manga timing? As in, basically nothing on the team Gai fights, Just showing some of Naruto and Deidara at the end of the ep for maybe 1 or 2 minutes, and concentrating totally on sakura and chiyo vs. Sasori?

I think it would flow a lot better. Naruto/Kakashi chasing deidara were some of the most pointless scenes ever, and the gai team fights had downright embarassing animation.

[Mugen]

So, going at their current rate, when will Sasuke make his proper appearance?

[The Falcon]

what's up with the long intervals between episodes? i feel like we've waited forever for 29 and 30 and now we have to wait three more weeks until the next one?

[Kyuss]

I imagine the wait is primarily to ensure the anime doesn't catch up to the manga. Admittedly it's a moot point now, but it's a consideration that some studios make when doing their animes.

[Malex]

So, going at their current rate, when will Sasuke make his proper appearance?

With the chapter rate and constant brakes between airings, I would say April or May.

I don't understand why Studio Perriot could not think of better filler fight scenes with Team Gai. They could have made the clone fights equal to the puppet army episode if they tried. It's like the animators and writers were thinking since it's not explicitly described in manga, it's filler and therefore must be horribly executed.

I have nothing to say about Kyuubi 2 Naruto or Kakashi trying to send Deidara to another dimension.

[Kyuss]

Would that assumption of non-commentary on the Deidara versus Naruto and Kakashi fight be one to say negatively without saying it?

But yes April, May, possibly early June.

[Knighthammer]

Would that assumption of non-commentary on the Deidara versus Naruto and Kakashi fight be one to say negatively without saying it?

But yes April, May, possibly early June.

At least the good thing is at this rate, one years of anime is likely to fit on ONE DVD.

I'm not sure if thats an epic fail or epic win.

[Rolling Cloud]

New OP
LONG SHOT PARTY　「distance」

New ED
Little by Little　「キミモノガタリ」 ("Your Story")

Single release 5.12 of ED


Source (http://forums.narutofan.com/showpost.php?p=10580629&postcount=1)

Those are the new OP/ED. FYI, Little by Little is the band that did OP 3 for the original Naruto. =P

Now, if you don't believe this, you can check out the following sites:

http://plaza.rakuten.co.jp/longshotparty/
http://playlog.jp/littlebylittle/blog/

Source where I got the sites from (http://forums.narutofan.com/showpost.php?p=10580717&postcount=3)

I have to say that I liked: Kanashimi wo Yashina..., so I'm sure I'll like this one.

[Taylor]

Why did studio perriot choose a different music composer for naruto shippuden to make different music?

[Kuroba]

Off-topic, but Little by Little is releasing a new song? Awesome, haven't heard anything new by them in a long time.

[bobbert1]

everyone looks alot cooler... except for neji who looks slightly gay:( other then that its great i dont think ill really be used to watching naruto in japeneese ever... but unfotunatly at the rate the us is making new shows it ill take about 2 1/5 years to get to where they r in japan... which is why i think they may(but probably wont) air them on miguzi like 1 a day or 2 aweek or something so rater then under 52 a year they premiere about 100 episodes... just a suggestion

[pdracox23]

Will we have new episodes of Bleach this week and next week while Naruto Shipuden is missing? Bleach hasn't gone on break for awhile so i'm scared it will during same time Naruto does.

Who follows the schedule hehe

[RomanMack]

Must you make a topic every time Naruto goes on break? :sad:

[Karl Olson]

we have a thread for this - it's getting merged

[Captain Highwind]

29 & 30

The animation looked like it was going to turn out better when Naruto jumped at Deidara right after Kakashi used his Sharingan, but then it went to crap for the rest of the episode. The last part of 30 still kept it's emotional impact, thankfully.

Beserk Ninetailed-Naruto looked sooooooo much scarier in the manga.

He had longer fangs Pierrot; not just black lips.

(And to be honest, that tail-growing scene looked like he was taking a poo.) *snicker*

[Kyuss]

Still it was a decent effort considering how 28 turned out...

[Lightning Tiger]

29 & 30

(And to be honest, that tail-growing scene looked like he was taking a poo.) *snicker*

i thought i was the only one that thought that.

[Rolling Cloud]

Episode 31 should be coming out today!

New OP/ED! (and, may it not dissappoint like how I heard bleach did. >_>)

EDIT: Here's the ending: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8W4G1a13LOY&NR=1

WTF is with this ending? It's all about.....Sai!

[RomanMack]

Hey, while Bleach's opening wasn't very good... I'm loving YGO GX's new opening.

One Piece's is okay, I just wished they went back to shorter openings.

Hopefully Naruto gets a good one.

EDIT: Well, here's the new opening...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GYKMm_SXhU

Gotta say, out of all the openings, this one's got the best animation. The songs alright. Nothing to write home about, but it works.

Really disturbing shot of a naked Sasuke with snakes wrapped around him. 0.o... Maybe that'll please some of the ladies here, though... XD

[purplehairedwonder]

Really disturbing shot of a naked Sasuke with snakes wrapped around him. 0.o... Maybe that'll please some of the ladies here, though... XD>.>

<.<

What? We need our fanservice, too.

Anyway, the song... was painful. But the visuals I liked a lot. And not even because there was a ton of Sasuke. Really. The visuals for the new characters were really nice and the Sakura stuff was good, too. I liked the ending shot a lot, too.

[Captain Highwind]

If the animation in this opening was combined with the song of Bleach's current opening, that would be the bees knees.

What did I tell you? Sasuke in HD. This is where all the quality went.

[FireStarterLE]

It's easy to tell from the intro what this arc will be focusing on, no Akatuski member in sight (except Itachi)

[Funkatron]

Episode 31 = Tear Jerker. Haven't shed a tear this much since the Third's Funeral

[Kazuya Prower]

Anybody found the new ending humorous? I sure did. :D

[Kaiser0120]

Anybody found the new ending humorous? I sure did. :D

It's hilarious alright. Gotta love how they're introducing us to the character.

[Captain Highwind]

Anybody found the new ending humorous? I sure did. :D

I wonder if Sai's saying what I think he's saying to Naruto, to get him riled up so bad. -_-;

[Malex]

It's easy to tell from the intro what this arc will be focusing on, no Akatuski member in sight (except Itachi)

The entire Akatsuki was in that scene with Itachi two members not as obscured as before: a tall gentlemen and a man with a scythe.

I enjoyed this episode especially Gaara's groupies pushing Naruto out of the way. Kage>Genin in more ways than one. ;)

[Mr. Toto]

Man, Naruto really needs to utilize weather and seasons more. The colors and sunset in this episode were really great looking (judging from the pictures--I haven't seen the episode yet), and that's not something we see too often. I really hope that future battles from the manga just don't occur under purely blue skies.

Heck, the background from the third opening of Naruto would make a fine battle setting.

[Kyuss]

One arc down, one more to go before the arc I'm waiting for occurs.

It will certainly be interesting to see who they choose for a seiyu for Sai and then of course, the two fairly powerful "new" guys.

[Mr. Toto]

Episode 31

I really liked the nod to Wind they did--that scene was done well. Didn't enjoy the song choice when all of the Sand ninja showed up. However, the last piece played in the episode was amazing, and I really liked the change in hues they did as the sun began to set. Good episode.

Next week, we'll end up seeing our "Good Boy." Wonder how he'll sound.

[Captain Highwind]

31

Hey they didn't show

That Deidara was alive.

Seeing the text in the ending translated, yeah, this is the funniest ending out of both series.

I'm noticing Kankuro gets the best extras.

The opening song is starting to grow on me.

"YOU ARE MAH DLEAM!"

[Kyuss]

Highwind,

Perhaps that will be shown in later episodes. *didn't care one way or the other for the song.*

[GWOtaku]

I'm rather indifferent about the new OP, the first one was a lot better. I liked the episode, though I felt like it could've gone a bit further than it did. Chiyo dies, and that's the episode. They could've made it through Naruto & the others heading home.

[Kyuss]

GWOtaku,

I think that's the purpose of episode 32. Then come 33, we'll get the start of the arc I semi-like to get us towards the arc I truly like.

[Rolling Cloud]

I find it ironic that both the dub and Shippuden are about to enter their respective arcs about a certain dark-haired boy.

and, from the ED translation....looks like Sai's little joke will be manga-only. Oh well, not a big loss as long as he still insults Sakura. =P

[Kyuss]

Cloud,

What makes you believe that? I think it's a tad too early to say what will and won't be in the anime thanks to the manga.

Now that one incident with Konohamaru, later on in this series, that one has me wondering...

[Captain Highwind]

I find it ironic that both the dub and Shippuden are about to enter their respective arcs about a certain dark-haired boy.

and, from the ED translation....looks like Sai's little joke will be manga-only. Oh well, not a big loss as long as he still insults Sakura. =P

Looked like he said Naruto doesn't have a **** to me.

[Kyuss]

Really? I thought Naruto was anatomically correct...

[Rolling Cloud]

Cloud,

What makes you believe that? I think it's a tad too early to say what will and won't be in the anime thanks to the manga.

Now that one incident with Konohamaru, later on in this series, that one has me wondering...

Looked like he said Naruto doesn't have a **** to me.

Ok then, maybe I am overreacting. I kinda assumed the asterisks were blanking (therefore, cutting out) out the word, but if they keep it..I'm ok with it.

[Kyuss]

Cloud,

I'd say until it's shown or not, it's not a relevant issue.

Now the dub, that might be toned down.

[Lightning Tiger]

you think theyl drag out this arc like they did last one., i mean, their practicaly a miion miles from where the manga is and if i remember corectly this arc is rather short.

[FireStarterLE]

The entire Akatsuki was in that scene with Itachi two members not as obscured as before: a tall gentlemen and a man with a scythe.

yeah i saw them once i rewatched the intro again, they're just not sticking out as much now as they were in "season 1" but i'm sure that will change for "season 3" when the two you mentioned show up

as for the episode, i liked it way better than previous eps. The previous ones were ok, but this one just had a better all around feel to it



Hey they didn't show

That Deidara was alive.


yeah i just went and looked that part up in the manga and i guess one of the first things we'll see in the next ep is

deidara emerging and Tobi's introduction

[Kyuss]

you think theyl drag out this arc like they did last one., i mean, their practicaly a miion miles from where the manga is and if i remember corectly this arc is rather short.

I'm expecting it not to drag as much as this arc did. I'm also expecting we'll be close to the third arc before 2008.

[GrapeApe]

Sorry this is wildly off topic..I stopped watching Naruto after the the first couple of filler episodes...I'm going to start watching Shipuuden this weekend I was just wondering if there were any filler arcs that I should watch before I get back into the swing of things..thanx!

[MessyB]

Nope, it looks like the filler was rightfully and completely ignored. At least, I stopped watching the filler after a couple episodes, waited a couple months, then got right in to Shipuuden (picked a good time to start watching Naruto!). I haven't seen anything that's made me go "what the ef are they talking about?", so I'd say skip the filler.

[Kyuss]

Just watch the show and judge for yourself. Honestly not watching the filler will not affect your understanding of this series.