Boruto: Naruto the Movie has finally been released to home media in the US. Taking place years after the events of Naruto Shippuden/Naruto Part II, Boruto the Movie follows the coming of age of Naruto’s son Boruto. who looks to step out of the shadows of his Hokage father. Throughout the film, however, Boruto realizes that he’s more like his father than originally thought.

Boruto: Naruto the Movie is an 2015 shounen anime movie sequel to Naruto & Naruto Shippuden. It is produced by Studio Pierrot and licensed by Viz Media, it is currently available on DVD & Blu-Ray in English.

Boruto as he appears in the film.

Having its manga debut in 1999, Naruto became a monster anime/manga franchise. Spawning dozens of films, video games, and even a live action movie currently in the works, the series has been one of the few to remain on top alongside the likes of Dragon Ball & One Piece for over 10 years. The latest incarnation of the franchise looks to give fans a view of Naruto & Hinata’s trouble making son Boruto, as well as his friends from the Hidden Leaf in the prologue to the sequel anime series.

Adult Sasuke (left) and Adult Naruto (right).

THE GOOD: Boruto the movie acts as a precursor to the eventually announced Boruto anime series which made its debut a few days ago. In the prologue film, Boruto tests his luck in becoming a great shinobi like his father before him, however the difficulties from their estranged relationship often causes Boruto to act out in an act of desperation for attention, this in turn leads to him cheating in the Chunin Exams which is soon found out by Naruto. After being captured by new enemies, Boruto with the aide of his master Sasuke and Naruto’s friends, Boruto finds the strength within to become a ninja powerful enough to save his father, and worthy of his respect.

Boruto with Sasuke.

The writing of the film definitely complements the feeling of it being the beginning of a shift into the “next generation” of the Naruto franchise. The story greatly showcased the differences between former lead Naruto and new lead & son Boruto. Other characters such as Sasuke, Sakura, their daughter Sarada and others receive some decent screen time, but its quite clear that for now this is Boruto’s story.

Boruto argues with Naruto.

THE BAD: While the focus is obviously on Boruto, it’s a little disappointing that the sequel’s new cast wasn’t given much time to work with.

Boruto’s adventure begins.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: Boruto the Movie is a great introduction into the sequel, providing an inside look into Boruto and his personality, while it struggles to focus on the remainder of the new characters, it does hold its own by answering a few unanswered questions about Naruto and his friends, as well as mostly closing the book on his story. Otaku Dome gives Boruto the Move Blu-Ray a 87 out of 100.