Anybody else think that Kishimoto's great storytelling ability has come back with avengance?

I did not see that coming. I knew something important was about to happen in terms of Sasuke's development but that was just perfect. I thought the manga had been a bit weak lately but it's just as spectacular as ever. Sasuke....I'm afraid that that was an epic fail. I also think it's time for Sakura's epiphany...there's nothing left there.

Although Naruto is good at changing hearts, very good indeed, Sasuke's just twisted and a coward.

Hope for Sasuke? Discuss!

Hi all, I'm new here! Havn't gotten around to my introduction thingy though :/ I have a question for those who are up to date with the manga, specifically up to 469. Is Narusaku as unpopular in Japan as it is in the west? They're my favourites and I just can't figure out what Kishimoto is thinking! T.T