Naruto Unleashed - Series 5 Part 2 (eps 118-130) [DVD]

The tenth three disc set of Naruto brings us episodes 118 to 130. Series 5 part 2 continues right on from the events of previous set with the operation to retrieve Sasuke well underway. In order to retrieve the young raven haired ninja, Naruto, accompanied by Shikamaru, Choji, Kiba and Neji set off to rescue their comrade. However, things are never that simple in Naruto. The Hidden Leaf Ninja's are pitted against the sound ninja who will stop at nothing to deliver Sasuke to the evil Sannin Ninja Orochimaru. This story arc of the series is probably the most action packed yet with pretty much non stop fights right through. However, it does get a bit predictable after a while as each of the Ninja face off against a sound ninja one on one while the others go on ahead. This trend continues until only Naruto is left to face Sasuke at the iconic Hokage statues. However, despite this the action itself is still incredibly clever, and in true fashion, the fight with Shikamaru is nothing short of brilliant. There are also some nice suprises in store for the viewer with a few Ninja from previous story arcs making a welcome return. Moreover there is some interesting backstory on Sasuke and Itachi Uchiha hwich answers some questions about past series'. As per usual, Naruto takes the time to create some nice comic relief, like in the fight between Rock Lee and Kimimaro, in which Lee mistakenly drinks some Sake instead of medicine. Hilarity ensues when we find out that Lee is also inadvertently skilled at the drunken fist.

Naruto series 5 part 2 contains a further 13 episodes. These are:

118.The vessel arrives too late
119.Miscalculation: A new enemy appears!
120.Roar and Howl! The ultimate tag team!
121.To each his own battle
122.Fake-out: Shikamaru's comeback!
123.The leaf's handsome devil!
124.The beast within
125.The sand shinobi: Allies of the leaf
126.Showdown! Gaara vs. Kimimaro!
127.Vengeful strike! The bracken dance!
128.A cry on deaf ears
129.Brothers: Distance among the Uchiha
130.Father and son, the broken crest

Once again the animation is superb and the music is fitting and extremely catchy in places. The volume also sees the addition of new opening and ending theme songs. This collection of 13 episodes seem to act as a warm up before the main event which is of course the legendary and enevitable face off between Naruto and Sasuke. Unfortunately the final disc ends before they really go for it, but that just makes the next box set more enticing. However, prepare for the quality to slowly disintegrate after that as the series will make it's way in to the inferior filler arcs (not adapted from the source manga, therefore it is original and is referred to as filler) for 80 odd episodes until Naruto Shippudden picks up from the manga again. So until then enjoy this helping of non-filler Naruto goodness.

The second half of season 5 is just as awesome as the first. I have seen all these episodes and the action is just spectacular. Real nail biting, edge of seat stuff. I won't let any plot leak out, though I'd like too! But you honestly cannot miss this set.

Naruto Season 5 overall is a fantastic season however this part is above the first in my oppinion because it touches on the more spiritual and emotional aspects of Naruto and sasuke's relationship such as why Sasuke means so much to Naruto. It has sme stunning battles with some rather clever techniques and tricks used to defeat the opponents. Overall this was a fantastic set and for fans and casual watchers alike be it the emotinal side or the fighting that draws you in there is something for everyone! I hope anyone out there finds this review helpful.