Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire (2009)

The Fire That Protects the Shinobi World

Set during the early Naruto Shippuden timeline, The Will of Fire explores one of the franchise’s most emotional themes — the deep bond between Naruto and Kakashi. When a terrifying Kekkei Genkai crisis threatens to ignite a Fourth Great Ninja War, Kakashi is forced to confront a devastating fate… and Naruto refuses to let history repeat itself.

This film connects heavily with both the Naruto Part 1 foundations and Shippuden’s future arcs, especially the themes of sacrifice, loss, and legacy that define the ninja world.

Movie Overview

Title: Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire
Japanese Title: 劇場版 NARUTO−ナルト− 疾風伝 火の意志を継ぐ者
Runtime: 96 minutes
Release Date: August 1, 2009
Studio: Studio Pierrot
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
Theme Song: “Dōkoku” by Ikimono-gakari

Story Summary

A mysterious outbreak begins affecting ninjas who possess Kekkei Genkai. As the world blames the Hidden Leaf for the crisis, tensions rise toward an inevitable Fourth Great Ninja War.

To prevent global conflict, Kakashi accepts responsibility and prepares for a sacrificial mission — one that echoes the tragedies of his past, including the deaths of Obito and Rin.

But Naruto, refusing to lose another precious bond, defies the village and sets out to bring Kakashi home.

Shippuden fans will instantly recognize how this film foreshadows future storylines, especially Naruto’s determination to protect his mentor at all costs.

Major Arcs Covered

• Kekkei Genkai Crisis: The disappearance of kekkei genkai users sparks worldwide panic.

• Kakashi’s Sacrifice: Kakashi chooses to shoulder the burden alone.

• Naruto’s Pursuit: Team 7’s emotional chase illustrates Naruto’s unwavering loyalty.

• World Tension Arc: Early setup mirroring conflicts leading to the Fourth Great Ninja War.

Main Characters

• Naruto Uzumaki: Refuses to let Kakashi make the same sacrifice as his father and teacher.

• Kakashi Hatake: Faces a heartbreaking decision shaped by childhood trauma.

• Yamato: Balances leadership between duty and compassion.

• Sai: Supports Naruto while facing his own emotional growth.

• Hiruko: The antagonist whose Kekkei Genkai obsession threatens the world.

Themes and Style

• Inheritance of the Will of Fire: The courage passed down from one generation to the next.

• Sacrifice & Loyalty: Naruto’s desperation to save Kakashi becomes the emotional core.

• Fear of War: Global distrust hints at upcoming Shippuden conflicts.

• Legacy of Bonds: Strong ties that shape a ninja’s identity.

Animation & Visuals

Studio Pierrot — responsible for Naruto (2002–2007) and Naruto Shippuden (2007–2017) — delivers cinematic combat sequences with expressive character animation. The movie blends early-Shippuden designs with upgraded lighting, large-scale explosions, and chakra-infused battles. Hiruko’s jutsu scenes particularly showcase the darker, more dramatic tone of mid-Shippuden.

Where to Watch

You can watch Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix

• Amazon Prime Video

Popularity & Reception

The film was praised for focusing deeply on Kakashi’s relationship with Naruto and for expanding the political tension surrounding chakra warfare. Fans appreciated how it bridged emotional themes from Naruto Part 1 with larger Shippuden-era conflicts.

Final Thoughts

The Will of Fire (2009) is one of the most character-driven Naruto movies, highlighting Naruto’s unbreakable loyalty and Kakashi’s painful but noble sense of responsibility. For fans wanting emotional depth combined with high-stakes action, this installment stands as one of Shippuden’s best.

The flame of the Will of Fire continues to burn through every generation.