Why Naruto’s Ending is Considered One of the Best Finales in Weekly Shonen Jump History

While I may not identify as a contrarian, I take pleasure in encouraging others to think differently, especially when it comes to the popular anime series Naruto. My critiques often challenge the widely accepted views of the shinobi world, while simultaneously expressing a deep appreciation for the complexities of the Akatsuki. I’ve explored Jiraiya’s death from a critical perspective, questioning the validity of the so-called “ninja way”and even asserting that Naruto’s legendary status as Hokage detracts from the series’ central themes. This might lead some to label me a hater, yet I must confess: Naruto boasts one of the finest conclusions in the history of Shōnen Jump.

My thorough examination of Naruto stems from genuine affection for the series. People are drawn to the stories they love, often engaging in playful analysis and reinterpretation. This motivated love fosters a desire to delve deeper, to dissect the narrative intricacies and unearth new interpretations. The conclusion of Naruto is indeed divisive, particularly following the unexpected twist involving Kaguya Otsutsuki. Fans across the spectrum have strong opinions about the series’ final chapters, leading to heated debates. However, beyond the Kaguya twist and the climactic resolutions between Naruto and Sasuke lies a pivotal element that elevates Naruto’s conclusion to one of the best in manga history.

The Challenge of Satisfying All Fans

Naruto’s Commitment to Its Themes

Naruto and Sasuke at the Valley of the End

One common misconception about Naruto is that Konoha symbolizes the archetypal “good guys.”In reality, the portrayal of Konoha and its philosophy of the Will of Fire—which prioritizes love over violence—is inherently flawed. This intentional design by Masashi Kishimoto emphasizes a crucial theme of the narrative: that hope can prevail even amidst a flawed world. The obsessions with obliteration, whether through self-destruction, as seen with the Infinite Tsukuyomi, or through the actions of Akatsuki, starkly contrast with Naruto’s enduring message. Acknowledging the imperfections of its world enhances the story’s emotional resonance.

At its core, Naruto illustrates how hope can triumph over hatred and acceptance can surpass vengeance. The rivalry between Naruto and Sasuke is a central thread throughout the series, culminating in an anticipated confrontation. Importantly, Naruto doesn’t ‘save’ Sasuke through conversion until the very end—this narrative choice is central to the story’s design.

Many arguments that defend Naruto’s ending often overlook the interconnectedness of narrative and thematic strength. The introduction of Kaguya does not solely define the quality of the conclusion, as the fundamental contrasts within the storyline—evident through the Sage of Six Paths and the Otsutsuki reincarnation—were inherent throughout. While some have criticized these twists as excessive, they serve to clarify and reinforce Naruto’s foundational themes.

The Otsutsuki clan exists to maintain the clarity of Naruto’s core ideas, positioning Naruto and Sasuke as reincarnated brothers embodying conflicting ideals. This duality reflects the longstanding grievances between the Senju and Uchiha clans and highlights the enduring choice between violent and nonviolent approaches to achieving peace.

Despite their seemingly extravagant nature, these controversial narrative twists ultimately preserve the integrity of Naruto’s ideals—keeping its themes resolute until the end. Kaguya represents the stark, overwhelming desire to surrender hope in the face of adversity; yet, the central moral of Naruto steadfastly overcomes her influence.

While Naruto‘s conclusion is not without its shortcomings, such as the muddled portrayal of Kaguya and the divisive nature of certain plot devices, it undeniably holds a place among the greatest endings ever produced by Weekly Shōnen Jump.

The Rarity of Strong Manga Endings

The Spectrum of Ending Quality

Determining what constitutes a “bad”or “good”ending can be quite subjective. Endings that might seem cliché or predictable do not inherently warrant condemnation—consider Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure’s third installment, Stardust Crusaders, which features a climactic showdown that, while exhilarating, adheres to established tropes. In contrast, the finale of My Hero Academia faced criticism for its unexpected time leap that detracted from the narrative tension.

It begs the question: why do fans often argue that Death Note concludes when L dies? Many claim that this initial ending marks a thematic shift that renders the subsequent events unsatisfactory. As the narrative transitions from an exploration of moral ambiguity, it loses clarity and direction.

When viewers express dissatisfaction with unresolved plot points, they are often voicing confusion concerning the series’ overarching intentions. Loose ends are not inherently problematic; indeed, they can open the door for sequels, prequels, and new narratives. Rushed conclusions can also serve valuable purposes, suggesting that the “slow burn” genre often thrives on hasty endings.

The crux of dissatisfaction often lies in muddled narrative intentions. For example, Jujutsu Kaisen was critiqued for both rushing its conclusion and leaving loose plot points hanging. However, I believe it ultimately succeeded in concluding its themes effectively, albeit through my subjective interpretation of its finale.

The Pure Earnestness of Naruto’s Finale

A Powerful Conclusion That Defines the Series

In examining the final chapters of any series, a satisfying conclusion resonates with the central themes, characters, and narrative arcs presented throughout the story’s run.

For example, the ending of Assassination Classroom exemplifies this brilliantly; its emotional weight is heightened by Koro-Sensei’s fateful transformation, which ultimately culminates in his dehumanization and demise, despite his status as a non-human entity.

The finale serves as a definitive statement regarding a series’ objectives and themes. Naruto‘s conclusion is radical in its willingness to dismantle the very structure of the shinobi world, stripping away agency to reveal its core idealism. This underlying idealism persists throughout the narrative, whether or not the Kaguya and reincarnation elements are present.

Ultimately, Naruto‘s ending adeptly showcases its dualistic themes. By remaining true to its principles, the series stands alongside a select few Shōnen Jump titles that deliver such clear, poignant resolutions. It joins the ranks of other notable series like Rurouni Kenshin and Dragon Ball Z, proving that its finale was never meant to merely cater to fan expectations, but to distill its essence and present it unequivocally to the audience.

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