Thematic and Narrative Analysis of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations – Episode 104: “Brother in Crime” Series: Boruto: Naruto Next Generations Episode Number: 104 Original Air Date: May 12, 2019 Arc: Konohamaru / Remon Arc (Episodes 106–111) – Note: Episode 104 serves as a crucial standalone prelude and character study before the main arc begins. Studio: Pierrot Director: Toshihiko Masuda (credited for storyboard) Writer: Hideto Tanaka 1. Executive Summary Episode 104 of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is a notable deviation from the high-octane ninja battles and Otsutsuki-level threats that preceded it. Instead, it delivers a grounded, character-driven narrative focusing on Mitsuki, one of the series’ most enigmatic protagonists. Titled “Brother in Crime,” the episode explores themes of loyalty, morality, and the fluid definition of “justice” through a seemingly minor incident: a student accused of stealing a bicycle.
Episode 104 is essential viewing, not just for Boruto fans, but for anyone interested in anime as a medium for ethical storytelling. It proves that in the world of ninjas, the sharpest weapon is not a Rasengan, but a quiet decision to say, “I believe in you, even when you are wrong.” Boruto- Naruto Next Generations Episode 104
The episode is dominated by greys, browns, and muted greens (the police station, the concrete riverbank). The only bursts of color are Boruto’s orange jacket (symbolizing hope/energy) and the blue sky at the end (symbolizing freedom/truth). Thematic and Narrative Analysis of Boruto: Naruto Next
Boruto, acting as Mitsuki’s unofficial defense, attempts to prove his friend’s innocence. He investigates the crime scene and interviews witnesses. The evidence is stacked against Mitsuki: the bike was found near his apartment, and a witness saw a pale figure with light hair near the shed. Boruto refuses to believe Mitsuki is a thief but struggles to find a counter-argument. It proves that in the world of ninjas,
The episode is widely praised by fans and critics as one of the best filler/standalone episodes in the series because it strips away superpowers to examine the core philosophical differences between Boruto (empathy-driven justice) and Mitsuki (logic-driven loyalty). It successfully bridges the gap between Mitsuki’s artificial origins and his genuine human emotions, culminating in a powerful, quiet climax that redefines his entire purpose for existing in Konoha. The episode opens with a mundane morning in Konohagakure. Boruto and Sarada discover that Mitsuki has been detained by the Konoha Military Police. The charge: theft of a bicycle. The victim, a stern, elderly woman, is adamant about pressing charges. However, Mitsuki refuses to speak, answer questions, or provide any alibi, creating an aura of guilt.