Boruto: Naruto the Movie

This 2015 theatrical feature is inspired by the perennially popular Shonen Jump adventure-comic hero Naruto, who is a super-powered “shinobi” ninja warrior. Even newcomers to the multi-volume Naruto-verse can grasp the plot basics. Naruto, although ever boyish looking and sounding, is here a husband and father, whose eldest son Boruto feels neglected because of Naruto's heroic responsibilities as a regional guardian and peacemaker. For an important ritual ninja tournament, Boruto conspicuously adopts his father's old buddy as a sensei/trainer, rather than Naruto himself, and also uses technological gadgetry instead of his mystic “chakra” essence in order to win. But straightaway a worse threat appears in the form of a pair of seemingly invincible foes. Parent and rebel offspring must stand together and fight, in what amounts to a long, loud boss battle that will still likely appeal to fans of the franchise. Presented in separated dual-language DVD and Blu-ray/DVD Combo set editions, rated TV-14, extras include storyboards and a mini-OVA with Boruto in household trouble once again. A strong optional purchase. (C. Cassady)