While fillers in the Naruto anime often get a bad rap, dismissing them entirely might mean missing out on some unexpectedly enjoyable arcs. Beyond the manga’s main plot, these three filler arcs stand out, offering a blend of action, comedy, and character exploration.
Naruto 152-157: The Kurosuki Family Removal Mission
Unearth the tale of the cloak-clad Kurosuki Family seizing control of Katabami Goldmine. Balancing action, comedy, and a touch of drama, this arc showcases the prowess of Tenten, Lee, Neji, and Naruto. While Raiga and his cohorts may be a tad over-the-top, the engaging battles and character moments make it a worthwhile watch.
Naruto Shippūden 170-171: The Quest for the Fourth Hokage’s Legacy
Step back to the original Naruto anime, where Naruto and Shikamaru race through a perilous obstacle course to uncover the Fourth Hokage’s rumored legacy. This humor-focused, two-episode arc provides a light-hearted break, emphasizing the camaraderie between characters and delivering top-notch gags.
Naruto Shippūden 290-295: Power
Celebrating over 500 episodes, the “Power” arc unfolds just before the Fourth Shinobi World War. Despite Kabuto’s questionable priorities, the story revolves around Tonika Village’s sacred waters and a middle-aged schoolteacher, Dokku. Exceptional art, fluid animation, and a compelling narrative make this filler arc feel like a feature film.
While it’s true that not all fillers hit the mark, these arcs showcase the potential for unique storytelling and character development outside the manga’s confines. Embracing the diversity of Naruto’s world, these hidden gems provide a fresh perspective, making them a worthy addition to any Naruto enthusiast’s watchlist.
