Where to start withNaruto
8 versions · originally a series, 2002
Themes: Coming of Age, Underdog, Friendship, Destiny, Overcoming Adversity.
Start with Naruto (2002) — the series. Naruto exists in 8 versions across media, beginning as a series in 2002; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The saga follows Naruto Uzumaki’s relentless pursuit of recognition and his growth into a legendary protector of his village.
✦ Most fans start here
Naruto (2002)
The original tv
✦ Start hereNaruto
Series · 2002
Naruto (2002) establishes the foundational journey of a mischievous adolescent ninja, offering the essential character introduction and world-building required to understand the entire expansive ninja universe.
2004 film
Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow
Tensai Okamura · Film · 2004
Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow (2004) provides a standalone cinematic adventure that places Naruto in a unique bodyguard role, perfect for fans of early-series action.
2007 film
Naruto Shippuden the Movie
Film · 2007
Naruto Shippuden the Movie (2007) introduces higher stakes and darker supernatural threats, serving as an entry point for viewers interested in the series' shift toward more apocalyptic, high-fantasy combat scenarios.
2007 series
Naruto Shippūden
Series · 2007
Naruto Shippūden (2007) chronicles the protagonist’s return after years of intensive training, focusing on mature themes, complex political organizations like the Akatsuki, and the evolution of Naruto’s core ambitions.
2008 film
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds
Hajime Kamegaki · Film · 2008
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds (2008) explores the strained relationship between Naruto and Sasuke during a time of global war, ideal for those invested in the series' emotional character conflicts.
2009 film
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire
Film · 2009
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire (2009) examines the internal politics of the Hidden Leaf Village and the heavy sacrifices required to maintain peace during a period of crisis.
2010 film
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower
Masahiko Murata · Film · 2010
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower (2010) delivers a time-bending mission involving historic ruins and rogue ninjas, offering a self-contained narrative experience that emphasizes Naruto's tactical combat skills.
2014 film
The Last: Naruto the Movie
Tsuneo Kobayashi · Film · 2014
The Last: Naruto the Movie (2014) provides a definitive, high-stakes conclusion to the central narrative, focusing on the moon’s descent and the culmination of years of character development and growth.
Common questions
What order should I watch the Naruto movies and series?
You should begin with the 2002 Naruto series, followed by the 2004 movie Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow. After completing the original series, proceed to Naruto Shippūden, which began in 2007, and integrate the subsequent Shippuden films like Bonds and The Lost Tower before finishing with The Last: Naruto the Movie.
Is Naruto Shippūden a direct continuation of the 2002 Naruto series?
Yes, Naruto Shippūden is the direct sequel to the 2002 Naruto series. It continues the story of the protagonist as he grows older and faces new challenges. You should finish the original 2002 series before starting the Shippūden episodes to understand the narrative progression of the characters.
How long is the Naruto series?
The Naruto franchise spans a significant amount of content. It starts with the 2002 Naruto series and continues with Naruto Shippūden, which premiered in 2007. Between these two series and the various films, such as The Will of Fire and The Lost Tower, there is a substantial amount of material to watch.
Should I watch the Naruto movies like The Last: Naruto the Movie before finishing the series?
No, you should not watch The Last: Naruto the Movie before finishing the Naruto Shippūden series. This film serves as a conclusion to the overarching story arc. Watching the movies in their chronological order relative to the series ensures that you follow the character development and plot progression correctly.