Review of The Last: Naruto the Movie (2014)

The Last: Naruto the Movie (2014) is a pivotal installment in the Naruto anime franchise, marking a significant chapter in the story of Naruto Uzumaki as it brings closure to his journey towards becoming the Seventh Hokage. Directed by Tsuneo Kobayashi and written by Masashi Kishimoto, the creator of the Naruto manga, the film is set two years after the events of the Fourth Great Ninja War. As the title suggests, The Last is an important moment in the Naruto series, both in terms of its plot and its connection to the franchise’s conclusion. It’s a tale of love, sacrifice, and a final confrontation against a new enemy who threatens the peace of the ninja world.

For fans who followed Naruto’s rise from an orphaned troublemaker to a respected leader, The Last offers emotional depth, humor, and action while also concluding key character arcs. While it serves as an essential addition to the Naruto universe, it also operates as a celebration of Naruto and Hinata’s relationship, offering fans a long-awaited exploration of their romantic connection.

Plot: The Beginning of a New Era

The Last: Naruto the Movie opens in a world that has just experienced the devastation of the Fourth Great Ninja War. Peace has been restored, but the ninja world is far from safe. The movie’s central conflict revolves around the mysterious Otsutsuki clan, who have made a surprise return to Earth, threatening the fragile peace with the arrival of Toneri Otsutsuki. Toneri is a descendant of the ancient Otsutsuki clan, who once tried to conquer the world by harnessing the power of the moon. He plans to destroy the Earth by crashing the moon into it.

In this time of peace, Naruto Uzumaki (voiced by Junko Takeuchi) has begun to take on his duties as a future Hokage. Meanwhile, Hinata Hyuga (voiced by Nana Mizuki) finds herself in the center of this new conflict when Toneri kidnaps her in a bid to manipulate her into using her powers for his own ends. Naruto, along with his loyal friends Sakura Haruno (voiced by Chie Nakamura) and Sai (voiced by Satoshi Hino), sets out to rescue Hinata and stop Toneri before the moon crashes into the Earth.

The film not only presents high-stakes action and adventure but also delves into the emotional and psychological growth of its characters. The primary focus, however, is on Naruto and Hinata’s relationship, which has always been a subtle but enduring aspect of the series. The Last offers fans the long-awaited exploration of their romance, which culminates in an emotional and satisfying resolution.

Naruto and Hinata: A Love Story Blossoms

At the heart of The Last: Naruto the Movie is the blossoming love between Naruto and Hinata. While their relationship has always been an underlying theme throughout the Naruto series, The Last takes the time to delve into their emotional journey and allows fans to witness their feelings evolve from friendship to romance. For years, Naruto has been oblivious to Hinata’s affections, as he’s been consumed by his dreams of becoming Hokage. But as the movie progresses, Naruto begins to see Hinata in a new light, recognizing her selflessness and strength.

Hinata, who has always admired Naruto from afar, has grown considerably throughout the series. Her quiet determination and strength are central to the plot, especially when she is captured by Toneri. Her vulnerability and willingness to protect those she loves are key aspects of her character, and these qualities shine in the film as she and Naruto grow closer. The movie showcases her courage and resilience, making her far more than just the shy girl from the earlier seasons.

Their dynamic is a tender and emotional journey, culminating in the iconic moments that fans had long been hoping for. The romance between Naruto and Hinata is not forced; rather, it evolves naturally, with both characters coming to terms with their feelings over time. The film makes these moments heartfelt and rewarding, especially for viewers who have followed the couple’s relationship throughout the series.

The progression of their love story, set against the backdrop of impending danger, provides emotional depth to the action. It’s not just about saving the world; it’s also about preserving the bonds that matter most to the characters. The slow-burn romance is handled with sensitivity, making the eventual culmination all the more satisfying.

Toneri Otsutsuki: The New Villain

Toneri Otsutsuki, the film’s antagonist, is introduced as a powerful and enigmatic figure with a deep connection to the moon. He is a descendant of the Otsutsuki clan, a powerful family from the ancient times who were responsible for planting the seed that would grow into the world’s current shinobi system. Toneri’s motivations are complex, as he believes that humanity has become too tainted and is beyond saving. In his mind, the destruction of the Earth is necessary for rebirth, and he believes that Hinata’s abilities make her the key to carrying out this cataclysmic plan.

Toneri is not just another generic villain; he is deeply tied to the series’ lore, particularly the history of the chakra and the Otsutsuki clan’s role in shaping the ninja world. His motivations are rooted in an ideological belief that is both noble and twisted. His views about humanity’s flaws and his desire to “purify” the world offer a compelling antagonist for Naruto and his friends. However, despite his tragic backstory and his sense of righteousness, Toneri is ultimately a villain with a misguided sense of justice, making him a well-rounded character.

The film also explores Toneri’s connection to the moon and the lost history of the Otsutsuki clan, which ties into the larger Naruto lore. His actions and ambitions, while extreme, are reflective of the ongoing theme of power and the responsibility that comes with it — a theme that has been central to Naruto’s journey throughout the series. While Toneri’s motivations may not be as immediately engaging as some of the other Naruto villains, his character provides a fitting challenge for Naruto’s ultimate growth as both a leader and a person.

The Supporting Cast: Familiar Faces and New Dynamics

The Last: Naruto the Movie features several key members of the Naruto ensemble, who continue to support the main characters in their quest. Sakura Haruno, Sasuke Uchiha (voiced by Noriaki Sugiyama), and Sai all make appearances, though they take a more secondary role compared to Naruto and Hinata. The film emphasizes the bond between the core group of friends, highlighting their teamwork and determination to protect their loved ones.

Sasuke’s limited involvement is significant, as his personal journey is still ongoing, but it’s clear that he has moved past his previous conflicts. Sakura and Sai both contribute to the mission, showcasing their growth over the years. The film also touches on the bond between Naruto and his former rivals, showing how far they’ve all come in terms of friendship and loyalty.

A notable addition to the cast is Hanabi Hyuga (Hinata’s younger sister), whose role as a protector of her family adds an interesting layer to the film. Her relationship with Hinata is explored more deeply, offering insight into the Hyuga family dynamics and the burdens placed on their bloodline.

Action and Animation: High Stakes, Stunning Visuals

The Last: Naruto the Movie continues the franchise’s tradition of exhilarating action sequences and high-stakes battles. The animation quality has improved, and the film showcases some of the best fight scenes in the Naruto series. The use of chakra-based techniques and ninja strategies is on full display, with Naruto and his allies battling Toneri and his forces in dramatic and visually impressive ways.

The film also takes advantage of the new setting on the moon, which adds an extra layer of spectacle to the action. The moon’s unique environment and its connection to Toneri’s plans provide fresh challenges for the characters, making the battles feel dynamic and exciting. The final battle, in particular, is a thrilling culmination of the film’s conflict and a satisfying conclusion to Naruto’s personal growth.

Emotional Resonance and Closure

What truly sets The Last: Naruto the Movie apart from other entries in the franchise is its emotional resonance. While there are certainly plenty of action-packed moments, the film also provides a sense of closure and reflection on the journey Naruto has taken from the beginning of the series. Naruto’s evolution from an outcast seeking recognition to a hero who fights for those he loves and the world he wants to protect is beautifully portrayed in this film.

Hinata’s journey is equally compelling, as she comes into her own not only as a love interest but as a powerful and capable ninja in her own right. The movie’s emotional highs and lows, including Naruto’s internal struggles and his relationship with Hinata, provide a rich emotional experience that resonates with long-time fans of the series.

The film also leaves the door open for the next generation of ninjas, as the story hints at the future of Naruto’s leadership and the legacy he will leave behind. It provides a satisfying conclusion to Naruto’s romantic arc while still setting the stage for the Boruto series, which will follow the next generation of ninjas.

Conclusion: A Heartfelt and Fitting Farewell

The Last: Naruto the Movie is a powerful and emotional addition to the Naruto franchise. It expertly blends action, romance, and drama, providing fans with a satisfying conclusion to Naruto’s journey while also delivering an exploration of his relationship with Hinata. The film offers closure, while also reflecting on the themes of friendship, sacrifice, and love that have been central to the series. It’s an essential watch for any Naruto fan, providing a heartfelt and fitting farewell to the iconic ninja world that has captivated audiences for years.

Ultimately, The Last not only celebrates the journey of Naruto and Hinata but also leaves a lasting impression on the legacy of Naruto as a whole. The movie is a perfect mix of humor, action, and emotion, offering fans one last adventure before moving on to the next chapter in the Naruto saga. It’s a must-watch for anyone who has followed the series and wants to experience the culmination of a beloved story.