-Some episodes are dragged out WAY too long. For example, the dialogue is extended and there are so many sequences when the characters are just staring at each other without accomplishing nothing.
-The music wasn't exactly the best. Yes, it is iconic and nostalgic, but a lot of the music sound like one of the fail flute memes you see on the internet that was pretty popular back then.
-This is an overdone argument against Naruto but... Sakura really sucks. She is the definition of the wasted potential of a MAIN SHONEN CHARACTER
Now that's out of the way, what did I LIKE about Naruto
-The characters were so unique. Their abilities were so dissimilar and interesting. Every character got a chance to shine in the original series.
-The emotion felt real and raw. Whenever a character went through a hardship throughout the show, you truly felt their pain.
-The show had great themes and morals.
-The rivalry between Naruto and Sasuke was well blended and executed. Throughout the series, the two rivals start becoming similar and power levels, and it escalates till the final canon arc in the show.
-The fathership that Jiraiya has developed with Naruto is sweet. It adds extra character development for both Naruto and Jiraiya.
-The power levels were just fine. It established skilled characters, and how Naruto came to overcome them without becoming ridiculous
-The fights. Amazing what can I say. Fluid animation, amazing sound effects, and loads of choreography and action when they aren't being dragged out by dialogue and pointless flashbacks
Now, do I recommend everyone to watch Naruto Part 1? No. This show is very long, and its successor is even longer. If you have the time and patience to see a slow story develop into something truly lovable and amazing, I would recommend a commitment to watch the series if you're interested to see what the hype is about.
