The New Target
Episode 33 · Naruto Shippuden
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Filler or Canon?
Yes — Naruto Shippuden Episode 33 is canon. It adapts the original manga and is essential to the main story. Do not skip it. The hunt for Sasuke formally begins — the Tenchi Bridge operation underway, with Sai's hidden agenda quietly threatening it from inside.
Series
Naruto Shippuden
Episode
033 / 500
Status
Manga Canon
Arc
Long-Awaited Reunion
LONG-AWAITED REUNION · EP 33–53 · 21 EPISODESYOU ARE HERE · 1 OF 21
Episode Summary
The new target is Sasuke, and the arc commits. Team Kakashi sets out for the Tenchi Bridge to intercept Sasori's spy, and the episode threads the team's frictions through the journey — Sai's manufactured smiles grating against real bonds, Naruto's barely-contained hope, Yamato's watchful command. Sai's secret orders begin to surface in small wrong notes. The meeting that could finally produce a thread to Sasuke approaches, and the arc makes clear that the team carrying it is built on a fault line.
Frequently Asked
What arc is it in?
It's part of the Long-Awaited Reunion arc.
Can I skip it?
No, this is essential canon — do not skip it.
Long-Awaited Reunion · Ep 33–53 · 21 episodes
033The New TargetManga Canon
034Formation: New Team KakashiManga Canon035An Unwanted AcquaintanceAManga Canon036False SmileManga Canon037UnnamedManga Canon038SimulationManga Canon039The Crouching TigerManga Canon040The Nine-Tailed FoxManga Canon041Top Secret MissionManga Canon042Orochimaru vs. JinchurikiAManga Canon043Sakura's TearsManga Canon044The Secret of the Direct ConfrontationManga Canon045The Consequences of BetrayalMixed Canon/Filler046The Unfinished PageManga Canon047Infiltrating the Den of the Snake!Manga Canon048BondsManga Canon049Something ImportantMixed Canon/Filler050The Nine-Tailed Fox's Picture BookMixed Canon/Filler051ReunionManga Canon052The Power of UchihaManga Canon053TitleManga Canon720 episodes — canon, mixed, filler and best animation moments.
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