Naruto: Episode 87

Is it just me or did the animation of the episode improve considerably? If only the last arc’s animation had this type of quality, the fighting sequences would’ve been better.

Before anything else, I’m readily admitting my tendency to enjoy almost all episodes in this genre which focuses on training. Maybe it’s something I inhaled or maybe it’s genetic. Whatever the reason, I readily look forward to these type of eppies. Having said that, it’s obvious that I immensely enjoyed the latest installment Naruto.

While Ero-Sennin gathers information(Uhuh, whatever.), Naruto begins his training to acquire a new jutsu. I’m impressed with Chidori but I like this technique better . . . The first step on his agenda has a deceivingly easy goal. He needs to blow up a water balloon using his chakra. After completing the first step, he was asked to blow up a rubber ball which he’ll probably complete by the end of the next episode. But for now, he should be satisfied with the deflated ball. A great accomplishment for Naruto considering this jutsu is a skill perfected by the Fourth Hokage.

Instead of only mentoring Naruto on shinobi skills, Jiraiya is turning out to be a father-figure. Although he seems oblivious to Naruto’s yearning for attention, his simple act of offering a treat shows his awareness of the fact. As much as I like Jiraiya, I can just imagine Naruto’s adulthood after being taught the Ero-Sennin. He’ll not only be a powerful ninja, but he’ll also be skilled with perverted ways of picking up women and peeping through public baths.

Since the anime is following the manga closely, I’m looking forward seeing the animated climax of this arc.