Ep 23. Bonds Come In All Shapes

As the title suggests, this episode is all about the importance of bonds. Bonds between friends, family, and even enemies play a large role in the plot of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. The episode opens with Boruto, Sarada, and Chocho trying to find a way to cheer up a despondent Mitsuki. Mitsuki has recently been acting strangely and has been avoiding his teammates. The trio decides to treat Mitsuki to his favorite meal, but their efforts fall flat as Mitsuki remains distant and uncommunicative.

Meanwhile, a group of rogue ninja known as the Mujina Bandits have been causing trouble in the Hidden Leaf Village. Koji Kashin, a mysterious and powerful ninja, has been sent to deal with them. Koji is able to easily defeat the bandits, but one of them manages to escape.

Back at the Academy, Naruto is holding a graduation ceremony for the students who have completed their training. The ceremony is interrupted when the escaped Mujina Bandit shows up, demanding that the village pay a ransom in exchange for the release of a hostage. When Naruto refuses, the bandit threatens to destroy the village.

Boruto, Sarada, and the other students are eager to help, but Naruto insists that they stay behind and let the adults handle it. However, when Naruto is injured in the ensuing battle, Boruto and his friends step up to protect the village.

There are some truly heartwarming moments in this episode, particularly when Mitsuki's bond with his teammates is put to the test. Boruto and the others refuse to give up on Mitsuki, even when he seems to have given up on himself. This theme of never giving up on those you care about is a recurring one in the Naruto franchise, and it's executed beautifully in this episode.

Aside from the emotional moments, there are also some great action scenes. Koji Kashin's fight with the Mujina Bandits is fast-paced and exciting, and the battle to protect the village is intense and well-choreographed.

One thing that stands out in this episode is the animation. The character designs are detailed and expressive, and the action scenes are fluid and dynamic. It's clear that a lot of care and attention went into the animation, and it really pays off.

Overall, "Bonds Come In All Shapes" is a great episode of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. It's a perfect encapsulation of what makes the series so beloved: heartwarming themes, thrilling action, and well-developed characters. Whether you're a longtime Naruto fan or a newcomer to the franchise, this episode is definitely worth watching.