Panelhopper reviews Naruto(so far)

So far, in the process of writing this blog, I haven't really taken the time to discuss any of the manga I enjoy. This is mainly because, unlike with American comics, were I can dip in and out without wasting time on story arcs that might be pointless,(Yes, I'm talking to you, Marvel!) Manga is often written as weekly issues with one massive arc that may take years to resolve. This makes forming an oppinion difficult, because once you start reading, finding place in the narrative were you think you have a handel on all the characters/the story can be impossible because the narrtive is always in motion.

However, The is one Manga series I think I'm finally ready to give a proper opinion on: Masashi Kishimoto's Naruto

I was first introduced to the world of Naruto via one of the many games based on the series. My flatmates had decided to hold a massive fighting game tornement in our kitchen and Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm was one of the games chosen to feature. Half way through having my arse kicked, I found myself intrigued by these characters I knew almost nothing about. So, the week after, I went out and purchased the first five volumes. I soon found myself hooked and I'm still reading it as often as I can.

I'm not exactly sure what it is that draws me into that world. The ninja thing is ok, but it's not reason I keep reading, I think mostly it's the characters and their relationships. The emotional journey Naruto has to travel over the course of the series is a relatable one, focused upon what it's like to grow up in the truest sense of the phrase: To go through life and to find yourself changed by what you experience, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse and that's something that alot of traditional heroes never really go through. Of course it should be noted that the series is not without flaws. The adolescent nature of it's core audience means that sometimes, some of the stronger points it could be making tend to be lost in the angst. It is mentioned several times throughout the series that, as ninjas, Naruto and his friends are being trained primarly to kill. They often find them selves in involved in deadly conflicts, yet sometimes, the issue of the morality of taking another human life is glossed over.

Overall however, I find Naruto to be good fun and I'm willing to overlook it's flaws while it continues to go on strong.


Till Next Time,

Panelhopper