There are 15 Dragon Ball Z movies, released theatrically between 1989 and 1995, and then a further three movies released between 2013 and 2022 under the Dragon Ball Z banner (including Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’), even though the television series Dragon Ball Super had already commenced. This makes a grand total of 18 films bearing the Dragon Ball Z title. Understanding the chronology and placement of these films within the broader Dragon Ball universe can be tricky, especially given the frequent deviations from the established anime and manga storylines.
A Journey Through the Dragon Ball Z Cinematic Universe
The Dragon Ball Z movie series presents a captivating, if somewhat confusing, parallel narrative to the core anime series. While offering spectacular battles and introducing memorable villains, these movies largely operate outside the main canonical timeline. Understanding this distinction is crucial to appreciating the films for what they are: entertaining, self-contained adventures.
The Original Run: 1989 – 1995
The initial run of Dragon Ball Z movies coincided with the peak of the anime’s popularity. These films, while visually impressive for their time, often rehashed familiar themes and character dynamics, offering little in the way of genuine character development or story progression that would impact the canonical storyline. They are, however, a delightful dose of Dragon Ball Z action and a testament to the series’ enduring appeal. This period is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of Dragon Ball Z movies, sparking fervent discussion amongst fans even to this day.
The Modern Era: 2013 – 2022 and Beyond
The resurgence of Dragon Ball in recent years has brought with it a new wave of films. Unlike their predecessors, these newer films strive for greater canonicity, attempting to integrate more seamlessly with the established narrative, particularly that of Dragon Ball Super. These films have breathed new life into the franchise, appealing to both nostalgic fans and a new generation of viewers alike. The distinction between film and canonical series continuity becomes ever more blurred in this era.
Understanding Movie Canon and Placement
A persistent question among Dragon Ball fans revolves around the canonicity of the movies. Generally, most of the original 13 movies from the 1989-1995 run are considered non-canon. This means their events do not directly impact the storyline of the main Dragon Ball saga. Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’, however, were initially considered canon but then retold with slight variations in Dragon Ball Super, muddling their status somewhat. Dragon Ball Super: Broly is considered officially canon, while Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero introduces further complexities.
Key Considerations for Canon
- Continuity Conflicts: Many movie villains and events contradict established timelines and power levels within the main series.
- Character Development: The films rarely contribute meaningfully to the long-term character arcs established in the anime and manga.
- Authorial Intent: Akira Toriyama’s involvement and statements on canonicity provide further clarification, although even his words have sometimes been interpreted differently by fans.
Dragon Ball Z Movies: Your Frequently Asked Questions Answered
Here are 12 of the most commonly asked questions about the Dragon Ball Z movies, designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the cinematic side of the series:
FAQ 1: What is the release order of all Dragon Ball Z movies?
The Dragon Ball Z movies were released in the following order:
- Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone (1989)
- Dragon Ball Z: The World’s Strongest (1990)
- Dragon Ball Z: The Tree of Might (1990)
- Dragon Ball Z: Lord Slug (1991)
- Dragon Ball Z: Cooler’s Revenge (1991)
- Dragon Ball Z: Return of Cooler (1992)
- Dragon Ball Z: Super Android 13! (1992)
- Dragon Ball Z: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan (1993)
- Dragon Ball Z: Bojack Unbound (1993)
- Dragon Ball Z: Broly – Second Coming (1994)
- Dragon Ball Z: Bio-Broly (1994)
- Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn (1995)
- Dragon Ball Z: Wrath of the Dragon (1995)
- Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods (2013)
- Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ (2015)
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018)
- Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022)
- Dragon Ball Daima (Upcoming movie)
FAQ 2: Which Dragon Ball Z movies are considered canon?
Officially, Dragon Ball Super: Broly is considered fully canon. Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’ were adapted into the Dragon Ball Super anime series, making them arguably canon, albeit with some alterations. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero is also generally accepted as canon, following the events of Dragon Ball Super.
FAQ 3: Are the Broly movies (pre-Dragon Ball Super) canon?
No, the three Broly movies released between 1993 and 1994 (Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan, Broly – Second Coming, and Bio-Broly) are not canon. They feature a different interpretation of Broly compared to the canon version introduced in Dragon Ball Super: Broly.
FAQ 4: What is the best Dragon Ball Z movie?
“Best” is subjective, but Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn and Dragon Ball Super: Broly are consistently ranked highly by fans. Fusion Reborn offers a unique villain in Janemba and features Gogeta’s iconic debut. Dragon Ball Super: Broly boasts stunning animation, a compelling reimagining of Broly’s character, and significant lore contributions.
FAQ 5: Which Dragon Ball Z movie is the worst?
Again, subjective, but Dragon Ball Z: Bio-Broly is often cited as the weakest due to its uninspired plot, recycled animation, and generally poor execution. It is widely considered to be a low point in the movie series.
FAQ 6: Where do the Dragon Ball Z movies fit in the timeline?
The non-canon movies are generally placed within the gaps of the main Dragon Ball Z timeline, often between major arcs. However, their placement is largely flexible due to their non-canonical nature. Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’ take place after the defeat of Majin Buu but before the events of Dragon Ball Super. Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero take place after the Tournament of Power arc in Dragon Ball Super.
FAQ 7: Why are some Dragon Ball Z movie villains so powerful compared to their anime counterparts?
The movies often prioritize spectacle and high stakes. This leads to power creep, where villains are designed to be incredibly powerful to challenge Goku and his friends, even if it contradicts established power scaling within the anime.
FAQ 8: Are there any plans for future Dragon Ball Z movies?
Yes, a new movie titled Dragon Ball Daima is in the works, although its exact release date and connection to Dragon Ball Z are still unconfirmed. The franchise is continuously evolving and adding new stories.
FAQ 9: Where can I watch the Dragon Ball Z movies?
The Dragon Ball Z movies are available on various streaming platforms, including Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Hulu, depending on your region and subscription status. They are also available for purchase on digital storefronts and physical media (Blu-ray and DVD).
FAQ 10: Which movies introduce new transformations?
Several movies introduce unique transformations. For example, Dragon Ball Z: Lord Slug features a “False Super Saiyan” form for Goku, while Dragon Ball Super: Broly showcases Broly’s unique Wrathful state and the full power of Super Saiyan Blue Gogeta.
FAQ 11: What is the difference between the theatrical versions and extended versions of the Dragon Ball Z movies?
Some Dragon Ball Z movies have extended versions that include additional scenes or dialogue. These extended versions are often found on Blu-ray releases and streaming services. The additions are typically minor, but may offer additional context or character moments.
FAQ 12: How do the Dragon Ball Z movies influence the main series?
While most of the earlier movies are non-canon, certain elements, like character designs or fight choreography, have occasionally influenced the main Dragon Ball series. The most significant influence, however, comes from the modern films, which actively contribute to the expanding Dragon Ball universe. The popularity of these movies showcases the enduring demand for this franchise.
By understanding the history, canonicity, and nuances of the Dragon Ball Z movies, fans can better appreciate this dynamic and entertaining facet of the Dragon Ball universe. Enjoy the battles!