Boruto is one of the most divisive anime in recent memory. As the official sequel to the beloved Naruto series, the expectations were sky-high, and while Boruto had its moments, it also faced harsh criticism from longtime fans of the franchise.
The series is currently on a hiatus, leaving a gap in the anime world. However, amidst this pause, a fan-made animation has made waves, sparking new conversations about the direction the anime should take.
This fan-created video depicts Boruto’s fight with Hidari, a character from the Two Blue Vortex manga.
The animation is so well-crafted that many fans believe Studio Pierrot, the studio behind the official anime, should be paying close attention.
Kawaki And Boruto (Shueisha)
The enthusiasm surrounding this fan-made animation is palpable. People are excited because it feels like a glance of what the official anime could be.
One fan on X (formerly Twitter) said it best, stating that the anime “better come back looking as good as this.”
The statement sums up the frustration many Boruto fans have felt about the show’s inconsistent quality over the years.
The fan-made video stands in stark contrast to some of the less-polished moments in the anime and has reignited conversations about how the series could improve moving forward.
A Long-Awaited Hiatus and Mixed Reactions to Boruto’s Journey So Far
To understand why this fan-made animation has gained so much attention, it’s essential to look at the current state of Boruto and how it has been received by fans over the years.
When Boruto first aired, it had a lot to live up to. As the sequel to one of the most beloved and iconic anime series of all time, Naruto, it faced the enormous challenge of continuing the legacy while standing on its own as a new story.
Unfortunately, the series has been met with mixed reactions, leading some fans to lose interest along the way.
There are several reasons for this. First, Boruto didn’t follow the traditional growth and development arc that made Naruto so special.
Kawaki Vs Boruto (Pierrot)
Many felt that Boruto Uzumaki, the son of Naruto, didn’t face the same hardships and struggles that defined his father’s journey, which made it harder for viewers to connect with him.
Furthermore, the pacing of the anime was often criticized, with fans complaining about filler episodes and slow development in key storylines.
However, the recent Two Blue Vortex time skip arc is seen as a much-needed positive shift for the series.
This time skip not only reintroduces Boruto as a more mature character but also brings new threats and deeper character developments to the forefront.
Fans who had become disengaged with the series are now cautiously optimistic, feeling that this new arc could breathe life back into the anime.
The fan-made animation of Boruto’s fight with Hidari has only amplified this excitement, as it highlights what could be achieved if the anime’s production values were improved.
A Fan’s Passion Sparks Renewed Hope: Zal’s Boruto vs. Hidari Animation
The fan animation in question was created by a YouTuber named Zal, who is also an avid Boruto fan.
Zal’s work focuses on Boruto and Sarada Uchiha, another prominent character in the Boruto universe, as they face off against Hidari, a new antagonist introduced in the Two Blue Vortex manga.
What makes Zal’s animation so remarkable is the level of detail and craftsmanship that went into it.
From the fluidity of the characters’ movements to the intense action sequences, the fight between Boruto and Hidari is depicted with a level of polish that some fans feel the official anime has struggled to achieve.
KawakiAnd Boruto (Pierrot)
Several aspects of the animation stand out. First and foremost is the smoothness of the fight choreography. Each movement feels deliberate, well-paced, and impactful.
There’s a sense of weight and intensity to the fight that makes every punch and kick feel significant.
In comparison, some of the fight scenes in the official Boruto anime have been criticized for feeling rushed or lacking the same level of care.
Another aspect of the fan animation that received widespread praise is the voice acting.
Even though this is a fan-made project, the voice work is on par with what one might expect from a professional production.
The characters’ emotions are conveyed through their voices, and this adds an extra layer of depth to the fight.
The soundtrack also plays a critical role in making the animation stand out. The music perfectly complements the action on screen, enhancing the tension and excitement of the battle.
Why the Fan-Made Animation Matters: A Lesson for Studio Pierrot
The Boruto anime has been on hiatus for some time now, and there is still no official word on when it will return.
However, Studio Pierrot has confirmed that the anime is not over. When it does return, the series will shift to a seasonal format, rather than running continuously throughout the year.
This change is significant, as it opens the door for the studio to focus on quality over quantity, giving the production team more time to perfect each episode.
The fan-made animation created by Zal has further stoked the desire among fans for higher-quality animation in the official series.
Fans have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with some of the earlier episodes, pointing out that certain scenes didn’t live up to the standards set by the original Naruto series.
Even though Boruto has had its fair share of epic moments, such as the battle between Naruto, Sasuke, and Momoshiki, these highlights have been too few and far between.
Fans believe that if the anime were to maintain a more consistent level of high-quality animation, it could reclaim the attention and respect it once had.
Many are hoping that the upcoming Two Blue Vortex arc will be the turning point. This time skip introduces a darker, more mature storyline, and the fanbase is eager to see this reflected in the anime’s visuals.
The positive reception to the Two Blue Vortex manga has shown that fans are still deeply invested in the story and its characters. Now, it’s up to Studio Pierrot to deliver an adaptation that lives up to those expectations.
A History of Inconsistent Animation: Boruto’s Struggles Compared to Naruto
It’s no secret that Boruto has had a rocky journey when it comes to animation.
While the series has delivered some stunning visuals during its most important fights, there have also been many moments where the animation quality dipped significantly.
This inconsistency has been a major point of contention for fans, especially when compared to the original Naruto series, which, despite its occasional dips in quality, managed to maintain a much more consistent level of polish during its key moments.
One of the main reasons for this discrepancy is the difference in production schedules. Boruto was initially a year-round anime, which means that episodes were produced on a much tighter schedule.
This kind of production cycle can lead to rushed animation, with less time to focus on fine-tuning fight choreography or refining the details of each scene.
Boruto Manga (Shueisha)
In contrast, Naruto Shippuden, while still running year-round at times, often took longer breaks between story arcs to ensure higher quality animation during its more pivotal moments.
One of the most iconic battles in Naruto is the fight between Naruto and Sasuke during the Valley of the End arc.
This fight was not only significant because of its narrative implications but also because of the breathtaking animation that brought it to life.
Each punch, jutsu, and clash between the two characters was beautifully animated, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
This fight set a high standard for what fans expect from the Naruto universe in terms of animation quality.
While Boruto has had its own share of memorable battles, such as the aforementioned Momoshiki fight, these moments have been too few and far between.
Fans feel that the series deserves better treatment, especially when it comes to fight scenes, which are a hallmark of the Naruto franchise.
The fan-made Boruto vs. Hidari animation has reminded fans of what the series could look like if more care and attention were given to its production.
The Positive Reception of Two Blue Vortex and Its Implications for the Anime’s Future
Despite the criticisms surrounding Boruto, the Two Blue Vortex manga has been met with a lot of enthusiasm.
This time skip has introduced new characters, new threats, and a more serious tone, which has reinvigorated the fanbase.
Masashi Kishimoto, the original creator of Naruto, has returned to take a more active role in the story, and his influence is already being felt in the Two Blue Vortex arc.
One of the reasons for this renewed excitement is the way Two Blue Vortex has improved several key characters.
Boruto himself has undergone significant development, maturing into a more well-rounded and capable protagonist.
Kashin Koji And Ishiki Otsusuki (Shueisha)
Himawari, Boruto’s younger sister, has also been given more attention, with fans excited to see her potential growth as a character.
Even Sarada Uchiha, who has often been criticized for not being given enough focus in the story, has had moments to shine in this new arc.
The return of Kishimoto has also brought a renewed sense of purpose to the story.
In recent years, the Boruto anime and manga had been criticized for feeling aimless, with many fans unsure of where the story was heading.
However, with Kishimoto at the helm once again, there’s a sense that the narrative is back on track, with clear stakes and goals for the characters to strive towards.
This is why fans are so eager to see Studio Pierrot capitalize on the momentum of the Two Blue Vortex arc.
With the anime on hiatus and the fanbase hungry for more content, the time is ripe for the studio to step up and deliver an adaptation that meets the high expectations set by the manga.
The Boruto vs. Hidari fan-made animation has only intensified this desire, as it showcases what the anime could look like if more time and effort were put into its production.
Fan Reactions and the Broader Conversation About Quality in Anime
The reaction to the fan-made Boruto vs. Hidari animation has been overwhelmingly positive.
Fans have taken to social media to express their admiration for the animation, with many calling for Studio Pierrot to take notes from what Zal has created. One fan commented,
“Two Blue Vortex got potential to be the best series of the Narutoverse,” highlighting the high hopes that people have for this new arc.
However, not all fans are optimistic. Some have expressed concerns about whether Studio Pierrot will be able to deliver the level of quality that fans are hoping for.
Sarada Uchiha From Boruto Two Blue Vortex manga (Shueisha)
One person on social media remarked, “It fits Ikemoto’s drawing style perfectly, but since Pierrot will be making this anime, expectations should be kept as low as possible.”
This sentiment reflects the lingering skepticism that some fans still have about the studio’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality animation.
Others have suggested that the anime should start from scratch and create an entirely new adaptation.
“They should just restart from the beginning and make a new anime,” one fan said, expressing a desire for a complete overhaul of the series.
While this is unlikely to happen, it speaks to the frustration that some fans feel about the current state of the Boruto anime and their hope for a better future.
Regardless of these differing opinions, one thing is clear: the Boruto fanbase is passionate and deeply invested in the story and its characters.
Even though the anime is on hiatus, the fan community continues to thrive, creating content, sharing theories, and discussing what they hope to see when the series returns.
The Role of Fan-Made Content in Shaping the Future of Anime
The Boruto vs. Hidari fan-made animation is just one example of how fan-created content can influence the broader conversation around anime.
In today’s digital age, fans have access to tools and platforms that allow them to create their own interpretations of the stories they love.
Whether it’s through fan-made animations, fan art, or fanfiction, the line between official and unofficial content has become increasingly blurred.
When fan creations reach the level of quality seen in Zal’s Boruto vs. Hidari animation, it sends a clear message to the official studios: fans expect more, and they won’t settle for less.
Boruto Anime better come back looking as good as this pic.twitter.com/aU96JPqW3t — Hσwl (@howlxithree) September 8, 2024
This kind of fan-driven demand for better quality is not unique to Boruto. Across the anime industry, fans have become more vocal about the importance of consistent, high-quality animation.
With the rise of streaming platforms and social media, fans now have a global platform to share their opinions, and studios are being held to higher standards than ever before.
For Studio Pierrot, the return of the Boruto anime presents a unique opportunity.
The shift to a seasonal format could give the studio the time and resources it needs to deliver a product that meets the expectations of its fanbase.
If the studio takes note of the feedback from fans and delivers animation on par with what was seen in Zal’s fan-made video, it could be a turning point for the series.
Will Studio Pierrot Rise to the Challenge?
As the Boruto anime prepares for its eventual return, fans are left wondering whether Studio Pierrot will rise to the challenge and deliver an adaptation that lives up to the expectations set by the Two Blue Vortex manga and fan-made content like Zal’s animation.
The time skip has reinvigorated the story, introducing new threats and deepening the development of key characters, and the fanbase is eager to see this reflected in the anime.
Boruto And Kashin Koji (Pierrot)
In the meantime, fans will continue to create, share, and celebrate their love for Boruto in whatever ways they can.
The Boruto vs. Hidari fan-made animation is a testament to the passion and creativity of the Boruto community, and it serves as a reminder that, even during a hiatus, the story of Boruto Uzumaki is far from over.
Whether Studio Pierrot can rise to the occasion remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the fanbase is ready and waiting for the anime to return, and they won’t settle for anything less than the best.
From the start, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power took on a big job: showing Sauron (Charlie Vickers) as a more complex character. This does not mean making him sympathetic, but rather making him a multi-dimensional character that fits the story.
Season 2 has done this very well. The events in Eregion feel like a slow-building psychological thriller. Tension rises as Sauron uses his evil nature and cleverness to achieve his goals.
In the shocking ending of Episode 6, the mood of the show changes from being slightly scary to very disturbing. Sauron shows a new level of villainy and power without even having to fight directly.
Sauron Is a Master Manipulator in ‘The Rings of Power’ Season 2
To show Sauron as a complicated character who interacts with J. R. R. Tolkien’s world, the show needed not only Charlie Vickers’ impressive performance but also a way to set their version of Sauron apart from the simpler portrayal in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings films.
Jackson’s Sauron is a nearly all-powerful threat that fits the grand story. In contrast, the Sauron in Rings of Power is just as focused but prefers to manipulate rather than rely on brute force. Even before the famous Rings start affecting their wearers, Sauron is skilled at blending in.
He acts like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, finding people’s weaknesses and working his way into their minds, which they accept even though it feels uncomfortable.
For example, Sauron focuses on undermining Celebrimbor’s (Charles Edwards) emotional strength throughout Season 2. He cleverly works to break down Celebrimbor’s defenses by preying on his weaknesses. He isolates Celebrimbor from his loyal smiths, leaving him without any friends or ways to escape.
Sauron is not a hypnotist (unless you count how the Rings twist their wearers), but he creates situations that make Celebrimbor’s weaknesses worse, allowing him to take control.
Sauron’s Illusion Combines His Cleverness, His Ruthlessness, and His Sorcery
Celebrimbor is not fooled easily. He sees through Sauron’s manipulations in earlier episodes but has almost given up. When Adar (Sam Hazeldine) attacks Eregion and the alarms sound, Celebrimbor suddenly becomes aware of what is happening.
Still from The Rings of Power (Credit: Prime Video)
Sauron tries to reassure him that the city is safe, but Celebrimbor pushes past him to see the situation himself. He knows that the innocent people of Eregion depend on him, and he no longer trusts Sauron’s sweet words. Even though Celebrimbor’s desires often override his good judgment, he cares more about Eregion’s safety than any silly ring.
As the truth begins to emerge, Sauron interferes with reality. He casts a spell that shows Celebrimbor, and the audience, a peaceful vision of Eregion.
The sun shines golden, people laugh, and there is no hint of danger — it looks perfect. When Celebrimbor sees this, he feels relieved and becomes calm, instead of ready to fight. Sauron takes advantage of this moment, recalling all of his previous tricks and convincing Celebrimbor to continue his work.
Once Celebrimbor is safely back in the forge, Sauron’s illusion begins to fade. The sunlight turns to darkness, Adar’s fireballs rain down, and the sounds of chaos erupt. Sauron had hidden the terrible destruction happening all around them.
Not only that, those terrifying sights and sounds were happening in real-time as Sauron sweet-talked Celebrimbor into submission. Calmly, Sauron moves through the chaos long enough to see Adar’s army, raising his arms as if ready to lead a war.
Sauron’s Eregion Illusion Is His Most Intimidating Move Yet in ‘The Rings of Power’ Season 2
Even though viewers suspect something is wrong when Celebrimbor hears screams from the forge but sees a peaceful scene outside, it is still frightening to watch the perfect illusion crumble. It becomes clear how thoroughly Sauron can twist someone’s perception.
Until now, Rings of Power has only hinted at Sauron’s magical skills, allowing his reputation to grow. Adding his magic to his masterful manipulation is much more terrifying than if Sauron simply controlled Celebrimbor’s mind. Given Sauron’s ancient age, casting such a spell is likely very easy for him. If he can pull off this trick, what other surprises does he have in store?
Starting the siege of Eregion with this scene feels both expected and shocking. The change from day to night with practical effects adds to the moment’s power: no matter how beautiful the visuals created with a green screen or digital effects are, nothing compares to the real effects used at just the right moment.
As the camera spins around Sauron, keeping him at the center like the calm eye of a storm, Eregion’s facade falls apart. We see how powerful, invasive, and cruel this version of Sauron is.
The result is a character far more frightening than the armored giant in Jackson’s films. After all, how can anyone fight an enemy who controls their mind?
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 effectively presents Sauron (Charlie Vickers) as a complex villain. Unlike the more straightforward portrayal in Peter Jackson’s films, this version of Sauron employs manipulation and psychological tactics to achieve his goals.
Still from The Rings of Power (Credit: Prime Video)
Throughout the season, he targets Celebrimbor (Charles Edwards), breaking down his defenses and isolating him. Sauron uses illusion and sorcery to create a false sense of security in Eregion, leading to chaos and destruction.
This new portrayal showcases Sauron’s cleverness and ruthlessness, making him a more terrifying enemy who can control perceptions and emotions with ease.
