Naruto Movies: Your Netflix Watch Order Guide

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Hey everyone! So, you're ready to dive into the epic world of Naruto and want to catch all the movies in the right sequence on Netflix, huh? That's awesome! Naruto has a ton of movies, and trust me, watching them in order can really enhance your experience, making the story flow better and the character development hit harder. But, figuring out that perfect watch order, especially when you're trying to stream them on a platform like Netflix, can be a bit of a maze. Don't sweat it, guys! We're going to break down exactly how to navigate this. We'll get you all set up to experience Naruto's cinematic adventures without any confusion. So grab your ninja gear, maybe some ramen, and let's get this Naruto movie marathon started!

Understanding the Naruto Movie Landscape

Alright, let's talk about the Naruto movies. It's super important to understand that these films aren't always directly tied to the main anime series' plot in a way that skipping them would leave you totally lost. Think of them more as side quests or what-if scenarios. They often explore different storylines, introduce new characters, or delve deeper into the relationships between existing ones. Some movies are set during specific arcs of the Naruto or Naruto Shippuden series, while others take place after the events of the main anime. This unique placement is why a specific watch order is so crucial. If you jump into a movie that's meant to be watched after a certain major event, you might get spoilers or miss out on the emotional impact. For instance, watching a movie that features a fully-powered character before you've seen them reach that level in the series can diminish the thrill of their eventual growth. So, while they're extra content, they're best enjoyed when slotted into the right place. Netflix's library can be a bit of a treasure hunt, with movies sometimes coming and going, and not all of them might be available at any given time. But the goal is always to integrate them smoothly into your viewing journey. We're talking about films that showcase Naruto's growth, his friendships, his rivalries, and his relentless pursuit of becoming Hokage. Each movie offers a unique lens through which to view his ninja path, and appreciating them in a chronological or narrative-appropriate order will definitely make the whole experience richer. It's like unlocking achievements in a video game – you want to do them in the order that makes the most sense for the overall story progression.

The Naruto Series vs. The Movies: What's the Difference?

This is a key point, folks! The main Naruto anime series, both the original Naruto and Naruto Shippuden, follows the overarching story of Naruto Uzumaki's journey from a mischievous outcast to a respected ninja and eventually, the Hokage. This is the core narrative, the one with all the major plot points, character arcs, and world-building. The movies, on the other hand, are generally considered non-canon filler. Now, don't let that word "filler" scare you off! Non-canon doesn't mean bad; it just means these stories aren't essential to understanding the main plot of the manga or the TV series. They often exist in their own little universes or timelines, allowing the creators to experiment with different scenarios and higher stakes without messing with the established canon. Some movies might happen during a specific arc of the TV series, offering a tangential adventure. Others take place after the main story concludes, providing a glimpse into the future or exploring the aftermath of major events. This distinction is vital for your watch order. If you're watching the series, you can typically finish a season or an arc before jumping into a movie that's set around that same period. This way, you get the full story from the series first and then enjoy the movie as an added bonus, perhaps seeing characters you've just gotten to know in a new light or facing a threat that complements the series' themes. Think of the series as the main course and the movies as delicious, exciting appetizers or desserts. You wouldn't eat the dessert before the steak, right? It's the same principle here. Understanding this difference helps manage expectations and ensures you're getting the most out of both the main story and the cinematic spin-offs. So, while the series is your mandatory quest, the movies are those optional, but highly rewarding, side quests that add depth and entertainment to your overall Naruto adventure.

Naruto Movies in Chronological Order (Non-Shippuden)

Okay, let's get down to business! For the original Naruto series, there are a few movies that can be watched. These generally take place during or shortly after certain arcs. The tricky part is that Netflix's availability can change, but if they are available, here’s a good way to slot them in. Remember, these are mostly standalone, so you can watch them anytime, but this order makes the most narrative sense.

Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow: This was the very first Naruto movie and is generally considered to take place after the Zabuza Arc in the original Naruto series. It introduces a movie-specific plot involving a famous actress and a quest to the Land of Snow. It’s a great introduction to how the movies work – focusing on Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura in a self-contained adventure.
Naruto the Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel: This one is a bit trickier to place definitively, but many fans believe it fits somewhere after the Chunin Exams arc, possibly around the time the series is exploring filler arcs or after the search for Tsunade. It features Naruto, Shikamaru, and the Sand Siblings (Gaara, Kankuro, Temari) in an adventure involving ancient ruins and a powerful artifact. Its placement doesn't heavily rely on specific plot points from the main series, making it flexible.
Naruto the Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom: This film is often placed after the Chunin Exams and before the search for Tsunade, or even after the Tsunade arc. It involves Naruto's team being sent on a mission to protect the prince of the Crescent Moon Kingdom. It's a lighter, more comedic adventure compared to the first two, focusing on teamwork and diplomacy, with a dash of action.

Keep in mind, guys, that these original Naruto movies are less about deep lore and more about showcasing the characters' abilities and their bonds in fun, standalone adventures. If you're watching the original Naruto series, you could realistically watch these after major arcs like the Land of the Waves, Chunin Exams, or during some of the filler periods. The key is that they generally feature the core team and don't rely on major plot developments from the latter half of the original series. If you find these on Netflix, they're a fun detour to break up the main story!

The Shippuden Era: Bigger Stakes, Bigger Movies

Now, let's transition to the Naruto Shippuden era. This is where the movies really start to feel more epic, with higher stakes and often featuring more powerful versions of our favorite characters. Naruto Shippuden movies are generally set during the Shippuden series, meaning you'll want to have a good grasp of the events in the anime before diving in. Again, Netflix's library can be unpredictable, but if you find them, here’s a recommended order. Remember, these often feature characters who have grown significantly, so watching them after the corresponding arcs in the Shippuden series will give you the best appreciation.

Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds: This movie is often considered to take place around the time of the Kazekage Rescue Mission arc, or shortly after. It deals with the return of Konoha and a new threat. It’s notable for featuring Sasuke more prominently alongside Naruto, and it has a strong theme of bonds and friendship.
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire: This film is usually placed after the Akatsuki Suppression Arc or around the time of the Hidan and Kakuzu arc. It centers around a mission involving Kakashi and his past, with Naruto and the other Konoha 11 playing key roles. It explores the meaning of sacrifice and protecting the village.
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower: This movie is often placed around the time of the Five Kage Summit preparations or shortly after the Hidan and Kakuzu arc. It involves time travel, with Naruto venturing into the past and encountering his father, Minato Namikaze, as the Fourth Hokage. It’s a really cool movie for seeing historical figures and understanding Naruto’s lineage.
Naruto the Movie: Blood Prison: While its placement is debated, many fans feel it fits best after the Pain’s Assault arc. In this film, Naruto is framed for a crime and sent to the maximum-security Blood Prison. It's a darker, more intense story that tests Naruto's resolve and his connection to the Nine-Tails.
Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie: This is a fan favorite and often placed after the main events of the Fourth Shinobi World War are concluded or winding down in the anime. It's a unique alternate universe film where Naruto and his friends swap places with their parents and alternate selves. It’s a fun, character-driven movie that offers a lot of laughs and emotional moments.
The Last: Naruto the Movie: This is HUGE, guys! The Last is actually considered canon to the main Naruto storyline. It takes place about two years after the Fourth Shinobi World War concludes and serves as a bridge between Naruto Shippuden and the era of Boruto. It focuses heavily on Naruto and Hinata's relationship and is essential viewing for fans who want the complete story leading into the next generation. You absolutely should watch this after Naruto Shippuden has fully concluded.

It’s really important to remember that availability on Netflix varies by region and time. So, while this order provides a narrative flow, you might need to be flexible. The goal is to enjoy these stories without spoiling the main anime arcs. For The Last, in particular, make sure you've finished Naruto Shippuden to get the full impact!

Watching on Netflix: Tips and Tricks

So, you've got the order, but how do you actually find these gems on Netflix? It can be a bit of a scavenger hunt, honestly. Netflix's library isn't static; movies and shows are added and removed regularly depending on licensing deals. What might be available today could be gone tomorrow, and vice versa. Plus, availability differs wildly by country. So, the first and most important tip is: check your local Netflix library regularly.

Search Function is Your Best Friend: Don't just browse endlessly. Use the search bar! Type in "Naruto" and see what pops up. You might find movies listed directly, or sometimes they're categorized under broader anime sections. Keep an eye out for official titles like "Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow" or "The Last: Naruto the Movie."
Be Flexible with Availability: If a specific movie isn't available right now, don't get discouraged! Use the order we discussed as a roadmap. Maybe you can find it on another streaming service or through a digital purchase. Or, simply move on to the next one in the sequence that is available. The beauty of many of these movies is their standalone nature; you can often enjoy them even if you miss one or two.
Consider Regional Differences: This is a big one. What's available in the US might not be in the UK, Japan, or Australia. If you're really set on watching a particular movie and it's not on your region's Netflix, some people explore VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). However, using a VPN to access content not licensed in your region can be a violation of Netflix's terms of service, so proceed with caution and at your own risk. It’s generally safer and simpler to stick to what’s officially available.
Look for Bundles or Collections: Sometimes, Netflix might group anime movies together. Keep an eye out for these collections, as they might contain several Naruto films at once.
Stay Updated: Follow anime news sites or fan communities. They often post updates when popular anime movies are added to Netflix. Being in the know can save you a lot of searching.
The Last: Naruto the Movie is Key: I can't stress this enough: The Last is often considered canon and a pivotal point. If it's available, prioritize it after finishing Naruto Shippuden. Its presence on Netflix might be more consistent due to its importance.

Ultimately, enjoying the Naruto movies on Netflix is about being persistent and adaptable. Don't let a missing title derail your excitement. The journey through Naruto's world is vast, and these movies are just one part of the incredible adventure. So, keep searching, keep watching, and enjoy the ninja action!

Beyond Netflix: Other Ways to Watch

Look, guys, while we're focusing on Netflix, it's totally understandable if you can't find all the Naruto movies you're looking for on there. As we've talked about, streaming libraries change faster than a shinobi can change jutsu! But don't worry, the world of Naruto cinema is still accessible. If Netflix doesn't have that specific movie you're craving, there are other awesome avenues to explore.

Crunchyroll: This is basically the holy grail for anime fans. Crunchyroll has a massive library of anime, including many of the Naruto movies. They often have them available shortly after their initial release or have them permanently licensed. If you're serious about anime, a Crunchyroll subscription is usually a must-have. They tend to have a more comprehensive collection of the Naruto films than Netflix typically does.
Hulu: Depending on your region, Hulu also carries a selection of anime content, and sometimes this includes Naruto movies. It's worth checking their library if you already subscribe to Hulu for other shows.
Digital Purchase/Rentals: Platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV, and YouTube Movies often have Naruto movies available for digital purchase or rental. This is a great option if you want to own the movie or just watch it once without a subscription commitment. The downside is that it can add up if you plan on watching many movies this way.
Blu-ray/DVD: For the ultimate collectors and die-hard fans, owning the physical media is the way to go. You can often find complete movie collections or individual films on Blu-ray or DVD online through retailers like Amazon, Right Stuf Anime, or even local stores. This ensures you have permanent access, and the quality is usually top-notch.
Official Websites & Events: Occasionally, special screenings or official anime platforms might offer limited-time access to movies. Keep an eye on official Naruto or anime news channels for announcements.

My advice? Start with Netflix since it's convenient. If you hit a wall, branch out. Crunchyroll is probably your best bet for a full collection. Don't let a missing title on one platform stop you from experiencing these awesome stories. The Naruto universe is vast, and there are plenty of ways to explore its cinematic side. Happy watching, ninja!

Conclusion: Your Naruto Movie Journey Awaits!

Alright, ninja clan! We’ve journeyed through the world of Naruto movies, figuring out the best order to watch them, especially when trying to catch them on Netflix. Remember, these movies are fantastic additions to the main series, offering unique stories and expanding on the characters we love. While The Last: Naruto the Movie stands out as a canon essential that bridges Shippuden to Boruto, the others are brilliant side adventures that enhance the overall experience.

Navigating Netflix can be a bit of a challenge due to library changes and regional restrictions, but with a bit of patience and the roadmap we've provided, you can definitely piece together your viewing order. Don't get discouraged if not every single movie is available at once; flexibility is key! And if Netflix falls short, remember the other fantastic options like Crunchyroll, digital rentals, or even physical media.

The most important thing is to enjoy the ride. Each movie offers a chance to see Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, and the whole gang in action, facing new threats and showcasing their growth. So, whether you're a long-time fan or just starting your journey into the Shinobi world, diving into the Naruto movies is a rewarding experience. Get ready for epic battles, heartfelt moments, and plenty of ninja action. Your ultimate Naruto movie marathon awaits!