Revamping Character Development and Friendship in Naruto and Boruto

The animation series Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and Boruto have captivated audiences with their intricate narratives and character arcs. However, several criticisms revolve around the pacing and depth of character development, particularly within Boruto. By addressing these issues and focusing on more comprehensive narratives and realistic portrayals, these series can engage viewers more effectively.

Addressing Character Development in Boruto

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations has been criticized for feeling rushed with its character development, often left underdeveloped compared to its predecessors. To rectify this, it is crucial to delve deeper into the personal struggles and relationships of the new generation characters. This focus can create a richer and more relatable narrative.

Implementation:

Extended Arcs: Allow for longer story arcs that explore the backgrounds, motivations, and growth of characters like Sarada, Mitsuki, and even Boruto himself. Dive into their personal struggles and how they influence their decisions. Flashbacks and Side Stories: Incorporate more flashbacks or side stories that connect the new generation with their predecessors. Highlight how the legacy of Naruto and other characters shapes their lives and decisions. Balanced Screen Time: Ensure that all main characters receive balanced screen time and development. Avoid sidelining some characters in favor of others to maintain a cohesive narrative.

With these changes, Boruto can achieve a richer narrative that resonates with fans of the original series while establishing its own distinct identity.

Challenging Stereotypical Friendships in Naruto

The nature of friendship and loyalty in the Naruto series has been a subject of debate. Many critics argue that the bonds of friendship, as portrayed by Kishimoto, do not align with realistic or logical narratives. For example:

Naruto and Sasuke were meant to be best friends, but their relationship is often portrayed in ways that feel contrived. Iruka, the first person to reach out to Naruto, is the clear contact for his mentorship. Yet, we are expected to believe that an antagonistic relationship like Naruto and Sasuke's should evolve into one of deep friendship. This is particularly jarring given the circumstances, such as the events with Haku, where Sasuke's body physically moved without his conscious decision.

Sakura, on the other hand, is often seen as a version of the beta-female trope, of which Studio Pierrot has been criticized for perpetuating. While her character arcs have had room for improvement, she is portrayed as largely dependent and delusional, believing that Naruto is in the way of her relationship with Sasuke. There is nothing particularly special about her character development.

Kishimoto's portrayal of Sakura as an object of male desire, despite the initial depiction of Naruto's life with prejudice, is questionable. The first episode of Naruto clearly shows the harsh reality Naruto faces. Yet, we are expected to see him simping for an "overrated" girl and having to deal with strangers beating him. This portrayal is incongruent with Naruto's character and background.

The Questionable Bonds of Past Generations

Looking at the historical backdrop of the Naruto series, the bonds formed between past generations often feel toxic or unmerited:

While Hashirama and Madara started as friends, Madara's betrayal and his desire for eternity despite the war's origins raise numerous questions. Hashirama's willingness to protect Madara even after being tested by his loyalty is questionable, especially given the war's beginnings. Madara's request to end the war if Hashirama commits suicide, despite the latter's desire for peace, is hypocritical. Hashirama's protection of Madara, even after Tobirama's death, is also suspicious.

Madara's actions and personality portray him as highly toxic and lacking in loyalty, which contradicts the epic friendship narrative. Similarly, we are meant to sympathize with Madara despite the war being started by the Uchiha ancestor Indra. His desire for Hashirama to commit suicide to make peace is nonsensical, and his dissatisfaction with not being Hokage adds to the bewildering nature of their relationship.

Conclusively, the series often asks its audience to support and be devoted to potentially toxic characters, undermining the importance of forming genuine, positive bonds in the real world.