Why Do Anime Shows Have Filler Episodes?

If you have ever read a manga title before watching the anime version, then you have probably noticed that the anime adaptation was somehow altered or changed from the original manga story. Why? Even though the anime alterations can be drastic, the reason for such changes is really quite simple.

The anime adaptations for many manga titles undergo changes in order to not exceed and ruin the original story in the manga. Because of this, many anime shows put in episodes that will not change or have little effect on the original manga story. The name "fillers" is often given to such episodes, and are usually easily spotted by dedicated fans. Many filler episodes are basically the same as other anime episodes except for the fact that the filler arcs do not follow the manga's original storyline and are usually new and made up stories. Some shows, however, have used the original storyline and have mixed in new material in order to not go ahead of the storyline of the manga.

One Piece and "Bleach" are two examples of anime shows that have retained the original storyline, but have also add a few new elements as well. Even though One Piece does have its' share of filler arcs, it has also displayed that the original storyline is the one of the most important aspects of the anime. The Davy Back Fight Arc from the Japanese anime, for example, mixes in new fighting events, but also remains mostly true to the manga story. Even though some new events are added, the original story still remains intact. Another example of an anime show that has added a few new ideas without drastically effecting the original storyline is "Bleach". During the Bount Arc of the series, new characters were introduced in filler episodes and were later shown during other story arcs. The introduction of new characters gives writers the chance to fill in other manga related episodes with new material, and it also prevents the anime from going ahead of the original storyline. Even though few changes are made in these instances, other series do add several filler episodes that can negatively effect a show's popularity.

Take for instance the anime show "Naruto". This series has used over 80 filler episodes that have been unrelated to the manga's storyline. Why so many episodes? Many fans believe that the show was crammed with so many filler arcs in order to show the series uninterrupted by filler episodes for an extended time length. Although many fans have voiced their complaints about some of the terrible filler arcs, "Naruto" seems practically not fazed popularity wise and true fans still tune in every week to watch their favorite ninja.

Although many fans do not favor filler episodes, fans who truly enjoy their favorite manga and anime series still find themselves checking out fillers. As long as the basic premise of the series, as well as its characters, are still there, I think fans will always be drawn back to watching filler episodes.