Brief Summary
This video analyzes the abundance of "piano in the bushes" plot devices and deus ex machina moments in the Fourth Shinobi World War arc of Naruto, arguing that these elements undermine the story's logical consistency and character development. The video identifies 12 instances where convenient, unexplained events or abilities appear to resolve conflicts, criticizing Kishimoto's writing choices in the later part of the series.
- The overabundance of "piano in the bushes" plot devices and deus ex machina moments in the Fourth Shinobi World War arc.
- The unexplained appearance of events or abilities to resolve conflicts.
- Criticizes Kishimoto's writing choices in the later part of the series.
Introduction: Defining "Piano in the Bushes" and Deus Ex Machina
The video begins by defining "piano in the bushes" as a plot element that appears randomly to solve a problem, and "deus ex machina" as a sudden, often divine, intervention that resolves a seemingly impossible situation. The author argues that while such elements are normal to some extent in a long series like Naruto, their excessive use in the Fourth World War arc is detrimental. He contrasts this with well-executed plot twists, such as Itachi's transition to the Alliance, which was foreshadowed and logically consistent.
The Unrealistic Size of the Alliance Army
The first example of a "piano in the bushes" is the size of the Allied Shinobi Forces. Kishimoto introduced an army of 80,000 fighters to counter Akatsuki's forces, but the author argues that this number is unrealistic given the established system for becoming a Chunin. Based on the difficulty of the Chunin exams and the limited number of graduates per year, he estimates that the total number of available Shinobi should be far lower. The author also questions how the Third Raikage could withstand 10,000 shinobi.
Itachi's Overpowered Abilities and Izanami
Itachi Uchiha is described as a "walking piano" due to his ability to pull out new, unexplained abilities whenever the plot demands it. The battle against Kabuto is cited as a prime example, where Itachi uses the Izanami technique to defeat Kabuto without killing him. The author criticizes the convenient nature of Izanami, which ignores Kabuto's defenses and negates its own drawbacks. He argues that the technique's limited role in the overall plot makes it a pure "piano in the bushes."
Madara's Unbalanced Power and Absolute Susanoo
Madara Uchiha is criticized for his constantly escalating power level, particularly after the Kage almost sealed him. The introduction of the Absolute Susanoo is seen as a prime example of Kishimoto forgetting about balance and introducing a new, overpowered ability without any prior foreshadowing. Madara's ability to break the Edo Tensei contract is also questioned, as it allows him to cheat the system and gain an unfair advantage.
Orochimaru's Convenient Return and the Reaper Death Seal Mask
Orochimaru's return to the plot is described as another "piano in the bushes" moment. The author questions how Orochimaru was able to escape the seemingly inescapable seal, and points out the inconsistency of Orochimaru being unable to heal his arms despite knowing about the Reaper Death Seal mask. The mask and the ritual to retrieve his arms are seen as a convenient retcon that undermines Orochimaru's earlier struggles.
The Revival of the Ten-Tails with Incomplete Chakra
The revival of the Ten-Tails with only a fraction of the chakra from the Eight and Nine-Tails is criticized as a major "piano in the bushes" moment. The author argues that this devalues the entire war, as Obito was able to revive the Ten-Tails despite not having the full-fledged tailed beasts.
Madara's Limbo Technique and Susanoo without Eyes
Madara's acquisition of the Limbo technique is seen as another example of an unexplained, overpowered ability that allows him to defeat his opponents. The author also questions Madara's ability to use Susanoo without eyes, which contradicts the established rules of the technique.
Naruto and Sasuke as Reincarnations of Hagoromo's Sons
The revelation that Naruto and Sasuke are the reincarnations of Hagoromo's sons is criticized as a convenient plot device that allows them to receive divine powers and defeat Madara. The author argues that this status was not foreshadowed and feels like a post-factum justification.
Naruto's Ability to Save Guy from Death and Kaguya's Arrival
Naruto's ability to save Might Guy from death after opening the Eight Gates is seen as another "piano in the bushes" moment, as it introduces a new, unexplained power. Finally, Kaguya's sudden appearance, orchestrated by Black Zetsu, is criticized as a deus ex machina that undermines Madara's role as the main antagonist. The author argues that Kaguya's character was poorly developed and served only to replace Madara as the final boss.
Conclusion: Twelve Instances of Plot Inconsistencies
In conclusion, the video identifies 12 major instances of "piano in the bushes" plot devices in the Fourth Shinobi World War arc, arguing that these elements detract from the overall quality of the story. The author encourages viewers to share their own opinions and additions to the list in the comments.
