Can we all collectively agree that Big 3 has some iconic fights? Well, Naruto is no different, especially with how well put and executed the battles are. Most fans believe that the original series has superior fights, yet Shippuden showcased one of the finest sword-fighting scenes that deserves recognition.
Zoro prepares to defeat King in One Piece anime | Credit: Toei Animation
Even though One Piece and Bleach gave us some of the best sword combat and duels, Masashi Kishimoto took it to a whole new level with a key aspect. This proves that the series is a cut above the rest, even decades after the fight’s release, and people need to acknowledge it.
The noteworthy sword-fighting scene in Naruto Shippuden
Not only does Naruto have an impressive and rich worldbuilding, but it reigns supreme in its rich lore and premise. The series, as a concept, blends different elements of mythology and philosophy within its premise. This is also mirrored in the characters and their jutsu in most cases.
Rashomon, Buddha, and Reaper death seals, you name it, and he’s got it. Kishimoto’s concept designs for jutsu and characters are nothing short of marvelous, especially with how they are enmeshed within the plot. It is rather congruent with the characters and their persona in the series.
Killer Bee’s signature sword-fighting style in Shippuden | Credit: Studio Pierrot
Be it Tenten or Jiraiya; the characters have an impeccable arsenal of jutsu as well as tools. Other than Ninjutsu and Genjutsu, Shippuden spotlighted various forms of Taijutsu. But that is not all, considering this goated fight in the series that elevated swordfighting on the whole.
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Kenjutsu or swordfighting is a feat that is often overshadowed by the occasional dojutsu and ninjutsu. Sasuke and Killer Bee’s duel, however, stands prime in showcasing Masashi Kishimoto’s brilliance and Pierrot’s finesse. It is nothing short of iconic in the manner of its conception.
In no way is it comparable to One Piece’s fight and Bleach’s showdowns, yet the fight puts its contemporaries to shame. This is mainly because of the battle choreography and fluidity of motion reflected in the scene. It is this very trait that makes it a work of art.
All about the battle choreography
It all boils down to battle choreography in Masashi Kishimoto’s series that deem it stunning on most levels. It is poetry in motion in every sense, especially with how Studio Pierrot animated it. A fine example of this is Naruto and Sasuke’s battle at the Valley of the End.
The hand signs and movements are meticulously woven together seamlessly within the animation. In comparison to Zoro’s fight with King, the frames used in the scenes are fresh and not recycled. It also brings out the core element of parallels that Kishimoto often uses in his series.
Naruto and Sasuke’s battle at the Valley of the End | Credit: Studio Pierrot
In retrospect, Bleach fights are theatrical yet structured, whereas One Piece fights exude a sheer amount of aura and impact. With Kishimoto’s series, however, there is a blend of foreshadowing and allusions to the past. The studio does this on multiple occasions in the Shippuden anime.
Between Sasuke-Naruto’s fight and Obito-Kakashi’s fight, there is a recurrent pattern of flashbacks that ties in well with the foreshadowing. The childhood scenes within the fights, for instance, add depth and impact. It also has fans glued to their seats as they revisit some of the crucial moments in the anime.
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Yes, Naruto doesn’t have flashy animation and lacks in several elements. But does it have to have god-tier animation to showcase iconic fights? Probably not, especially with how the duels outline the meticulous movements and maneuvers. To say the least, it is a masterpiece that deserves recognition.
Naruto: Shippuden is available for streaming on Netflix. The manga is available for reading on Shueisha’s Manga Plus app.
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