Naruto Shippuden: The Movie: The Will of Fire

Pierrot

Optional 7.52 95 min 2009

Naruto Shippuden: The Movie: The Will of Fire centers on a crisis where shinobi with Kekkei Genkai (bloodline abilities) from multiple hidden villages are mysteriously disappearing. When Konoha's own Kakashi Hatake begins to manifest symptoms suggesting he may be the next target, a rogue shinobi named Hiruko — who devised a technique to absorb others' Kekkei Genkai — threatens the world with powers collected from those he has consumed. The film's central conflict involves Naruto's determination to stop Hiruko even as the Hokage considers sacrificing Kakashi, making this the most directly Kakashi-focused of the Shippuden theatrical entries.

Will of Fire benefits from a compelling emotional hook: Naruto's refusal to accept the idea that any comrade should be sacrificed without a fight is a pure expression of his character, and framing this against Kakashi — one of the series' most beloved characters — gives the story genuine stakes. The action sequences showcasing Kakashi's Sharingan abilities are a highlight for longtime fans. Non-canonical but well-regarded within the Shippuden film lineup, Will of Fire is one of the more emotionally engaging entries and a particularly good choice for Kakashi fans.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When was The Will of Fire released?

Released August 1, 2009 in Japan — the third Naruto Shippuden theatrical film.

Is The Will of Fire canon?

No — Hiruko and the Kekkei Genkai absorption technique are non-canonical original elements.

What do fans think of The Will of Fire?

One of the more positively received Shippuden films. The Kakashi focus and the emotional stakes of the story earn it higher marks than most of its siblings in the lineup.