Ep 44. Shikadai's Doubts

In Boruto: Naruto Next Generations season 1 episode 44, titled "Shikadai's Doubts," the focus shifts to Shikadai, a character who is relatively new to the Naruto/Boruto universe. Shikadai is the son of Temari and Shikamaru, two beloved characters from the earlier Naruto series.

Shikadai is a member of Team 10, along with Inojin and Chocho, and in this episode, he finds himself struggling with doubts about his abilities. As a member of the Sand clan, Shikadai has inherited his father's shadow manipulation techniques, which allow him to control and immobilize opponents. However, he worries that he may not be living up to his potential, especially when compared to his father's prodigious talents.

The episode begins with the three members of Team 10 taking on a mission to protect a wealthy businessman named Gekko. Despite their best efforts, they are unable to prevent Gekko from being kidnapped by a group of assailants. Shikadai becomes fixated on the fact that he didn't anticipate the attack, and worries that he's not cut out for his role as a ninja.

To top it off, Shikadai is also dealing with some family drama. His mother, Temari, holds a high-ranking position in the Hidden Sand Village, and her responsibilities often take her away from home. Shikadai is frustrated by her absence, and feels like she doesn't appreciate how hard he's trying to live up to his potential.

All of these factors combine to put Shikadai in a bit of an emotional spiral. He starts to consider quitting the ninja academy and giving up on his dreams altogether.

Luckily, his teammates and friends are there to help him work through his doubts. Inojin and Chocho encourage him to keep working hard, reminding him of his past successes and the strength of his shadow techniques. He also receives a bit of tough love from his father, who tells him that he needs to learn to trust his instincts and not be so hard on himself.

As the episode progresses, Shikadai begins to regain his confidence. He puts his shadow techniques to use in creative ways, allowing him to outsmart his opponents and contribute to the mission's success. He also has a heart-to-heart with his mother, who apologizes for being absent and assures him that she's proud of him no matter what.

By the end of the episode, Shikadai has come to a greater understanding of his strengths as a ninja, as well as the importance of trusting in himself and his abilities. It's a satisfying conclusion to a storyline that offers a bit of insight into a character who is often relegated to the background of the show.

Overall, "Shikadai's Doubts" is a well-written and satisfying episode of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. It manages to offer a fresh perspective on a beloved character, while also incorporating the action and adventure elements that make the series so engaging. Fans of the Naruto universe will definitely want to check it out.