The results are in...
This week’s Boruto features the return of one of Naruto’s most infamous characters while Naruto and Sasuke search for information on the whereabouts of the kidnapped Sakura. It lacks the action of previous episodes, but is loaded with great revelations that have big implications for the rest of Sarada’s tumultuous journey.
Following their encounter with Shin, Sasuke and Naruto quickly assume that he must be a subordinate of Orochimaru’s and decide to pay his lab a visit. Upon arriving Orochimaru confirms he knows of Shin, but Sarada has other goals in mind and sets off to grill Orochimaru’s assistants about her parentage. I’m not sure if the inclusion of a maligned character like Orochimaru counts as fan-service, but there is something undoubtedly satisfying about seeing him interact with his former enemies. Despite being reduced from villain to plot device, he’s still the same gleefully wicked guy, even though Naruto and Sasuke hardly register him as a threat.
Thanks to Orochimaru (and some gloating from Shin himself) we learn that Shin is one of Orochimaru’s past subjects, and that his “sons” are actually clones made from his teeth and nerves. Shin is obsessed with Itachi Uchiha and plans to kill Sasuke. With him out of the way, he can rebuild the Uchiha Clan in Itachi's image. Kekkei Genkai like the Sharingan have always been a major point of conflict in Naruto, whether it be keeping these hallowed abilities hidden or stealing them through dubious research. Shin’s goal of stealing the Sharingan's powers are similar to many villains who have come before him (such as the aforementioned Orochimaru) and, for his reason, his ambitions fall a little flat. Perhaps his real desires have yet to be revealed, but for now he doesn’t stand out as particularly unique in the pantheon of Naruto villains.
Sarada doesn’t care much for any of that, instead opting to pull the clueless Suigetsu aside for a quick DNA test. The result of the test confirms her suspicions: Karin and Sarada are a perfect match. As Sarada starts to break down in the face of this new revelation, Naruto steps in to do what he does best: talk about the power of love (cue the montage of childhood memories). Scenes like this have practically become a Naruto cliché at this point, which might result in some eye rolling if not for the flashback that follows. Featuring Sakura taking care of a young Sarada, the short scene is somehow charming, cute, and funny all at the same time.
“Connected Feelings” foregoes action, instead serving up some important story and a heartful mother-daughter flashback. Orochimaru’s presence is a nice surprise, proving he still has what it takes to be an impactful character (and reminding us that Shin’s ambitions feel a little played out compared to the wicked Sannin’s past labors).
The Verdict
Sarada and co. pay a visit to Orochimaru's lab, revealing the truth behind Shin's ambitions as well as Sarada's parentage. The drama-heavy episode features a few classic Naruto cliches, but ultimately ends on a high note thanks to an endearing flashback from Sarada.
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