An Unwanted Acquaintance
Episode 35 · Naruto Shippuden
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Filler or Canon?
Yes — Naruto Shippuden Episode 35 is canon. It adapts the original manga and is essential to the main story. Do not skip it. The episode that dares to replace Sasuke — Sai's hollow smile introduction is one of Shippuden's smartest character entrances.
Series
Naruto Shippuden
Episode
035 / 500
Status
Manga Canon
Arc
Long-Awaited Reunion
Anim. Tier
A — Notable
LONG-AWAITED REUNION · EP 33–53 · 21 EPISODESYOU ARE HERE · 3 OF 21
Episode Summary
With Kakashi hospitalized after the Gaara rescue, Tsunade rebuilds Team 7 — and the replacement does not want to be liked. Sai introduces himself with a smile calibrated in a Root laboratory and an insult aimed at Sasuke that nearly gets him hit before the mission starts. Naruto and Sakura must accept a teammate trained to feel nothing, commanded by the new captain Yamato, whose Wood Style exists for one purpose: caging the Nine-Tails. The new Team Kakashi leaves for the Tenchi Bridge with no trust to spare.
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 Canon034Formation: New Team KakashiManga Canon
035An Unwanted AcquaintanceAManga Canon
036False 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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