Naruto Episode 65: Dancing Leaf, Squirming Sand

Canon/HIGH

Oshimeter

9.4

67 Ratings

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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EPISODE REVIEWS

arookieotaku

3 mo

Verified

Cool entrance from Sasuke & Kakashi.

ram_rage_145

6 mo

Sasuke showed up at the last second and that entrance with the leaves was so cool

yellow

6 mo

Lee watching Sasuke from the stands while holding his crutches, it really shows how much he wants to be back in the fight

Episode Context

Pure tension. This episode is all about the slow burn of anticipation as the Chūnin Exams reach their most awaited matchup. Sasuke versus Gaara. Rather than rushing into action, the pacing is deliberately measured, letting the weight of the moment settle over the arena. Sasuke's delayed arrival cranks the suspense, while Gaara's ominous presence serves as a constant reminder of the danger ahead. The Third Hokage's involvement adds political gravity to what could have been a straightforward tournament episode. Expect strategic posturing, rising dread, and an atmosphere thick with the promise of violence. This is the calm before the storm, the kind of episode that rewards patience by making the eventual clash feel earned. If you appreciate buildup done right, this delivers.

Runtime23 min

Filler StatusCanon

Plot ImportanceHIGH

Air DateDec 31, 2003

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