Naruto (2025)
“The legend begins… in live action.”
Naruto (2025) marks the long-awaited live-action adaptation of Masashi Kishimoto’s legendary manga — and against all odds, it delivers a powerful blend of martial arts spectacle, heartfelt emotion, and ninja mythology that stays surprisingly faithful to its source.
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), the film introduces newcomer Kaito Tanaka as Naruto Uzumaki, the spirited outcast of the Hidden Leaf Village who dreams of becoming Hokage. Shunned by his peers and secretly housing the fearsome Nine-Tailed Fox within him, Naruto begins his journey as a Genin alongside stoic Sasuke Uchiha (Yosuke Kubozuka) and brilliant Sakura Haruno (Mackenyu Arata and Lana Condor, respectively), under the watchful eye of Kakashi Hatake (Andrew Koji).
The film focuses on the early arcs of the series — including the Land of Waves mission and the chilling showdown with Zabuza and Haku — and grounds the story in emotional realism while retaining the fantastical chakra-based combat that made the original iconic. The jutsu effects are slick and cinematic, and the choreography is sharp, brutal, and deeply satisfying.
Visually, the film captures the balance between ancient mysticism and shinobi action, with a beautifully crafted Hidden Leaf Village and haunting glimpses of Naruto’s lonely childhood. The score, blending traditional Japanese instruments with modern orchestration, elevates every emotional beat.
More than just fan service, Naruto (2025) is a love letter to a generation that grew up with the series — and a strong introduction for newcomers. With a shocking post-credits tease of the Chūnin Exams and a glimpse of Orochimaru, the sequel is already looking inevitable.
Believe it — Naruto is back, and this time, it’s real.
