Naruto Anime Analysis

Season 1: Episode 41

Source: Wikipedia
"Kunoichi Rumble: The Rivals Get Serious!"

"Kankuro easily wins his battle against Misumi by tricking him into attacking his puppet crow. Though Kankuro has Crow break Misumi's ribs, the opponent survives due to his ability to contort himself. The fourth match is between Sakura and Ino. After the two exchange insults, they have flashbacks from when they were friends before Sakura was forced to end it after both learn that they each have a crush on Sasuke. Though Ino was restraining herself because of their past, she decided to follow Sakura's example and take the battle seriously."

Analysis

According to the Narutopedia website, Misumi faced off against Kankurō. Swiftly utilizing his powers, he wrapped himself around Kankurō's torso, suffocating him and threatening to snap his neck should he not forfeit the bout. When Kankurō refused, Misumi delivered on his promise, but it soon became apparent that he had trapped Kankurō's puppet wearing a mask. Afterwards, Kankurō forced his puppet to encircle Misumi and stifle him, shattering every bone in his body before Misumi could forfeit and win the duel.

As expected by Kankuro, he wins the fight. Since he, Temari, and Gaara are highly skilled in their village, he was bound to win the match.

The interesting part of this episode is the match between Sakura and Ino. In the past, they used to be close friends. However, their friendship has gotten strained because they both have a crush on Sasuke. However, what makes it ironic is the fact that Ino was restraining herself from fighting Sakura.  This shows that she still cares about Sakura as her friend; hence, they have a complicated friendship. Another example of their complicated friendship is when Sakura cuts her hair while fighting against Team Dosu in the Forest of Death. When Ino witnessed what happened with Shino and Choji, she helped Sakura by giving her a haircut. At that moment, they seemed to have gotten close until they were back to being rivals again.

Sakura, in this case, has matured as a ninja because she takes her battle seriously. Ever since her encounter with Team Dosu, she has promised herself to never become a victim. She wants to become the best ninja she can be. As a result, Sakura's determination motivates Ino to also take the battle seriously. This match is about to get serious, whereas in the next episode, it's going to be epic.

The lesson from this episode is that if there's a true friendship, nothing should break it.