Rock Lee and His Ninja Pals
Alternate title: NarutoSD: Rock Lee no Seishun Full-Power Ninden
This kawaii anime series presents a whole new way of looking at the Naruto franchise. One of the meanings of Chibi in Japanese slang terms is "small child." This anime depicts all of the characters in small, child-like form. Based on the manga by Kenji Taira, Rock Lee & his Ninja Pals began its reign of cuteness with the Spring 2012 line-up. It is directed by Masahiko Murata and Produced by Studio Pierrot. Members of Crunchyroll can enjoy watching the simulcast episodes.
The series itself centers around the life of Rock Lee. Those familiar with Naruto and subsequently Naruto Shippuuden, know that Lee excels in Taijutsu but has no Ninjutsu. That sometimes gives him a disadvantage over the other ninja. Other than that and the characters themselves, this anime does not follow the plot of the Naruto series. Instead, one can chuckle at the hilarious antics of Rock Lee during his training and everyday life, especially when his 'usual' heroic but reckless personality is personified.
My take: A cute light hearted comedy to be enjoyed by the whole family.
