The canon status of Dragon Ball movies is a complex and often debated topic. Officially, and according to series creator Akira Toriyama, none of the original Dragon Ball or Dragon Ball Z movies are considered strictly canon to the main Dragon Ball timeline.
Understanding Canon in Dragon Ball
Canon, in the context of storytelling, refers to the officially recognized story elements that are considered part of the established narrative universe. In the Dragon Ball franchise, the primary canon is considered to be the original manga series and, with some caveats, the Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT (controversial), and Dragon Ball Super anime series.
However, the Dragon Ball movies often present storylines and characters that contradict or don’t seamlessly integrate with the main series timeline. This is primarily because many were developed concurrently with the anime and manga, operating under different creative teams and sometimes even timelines.
The Case Against Canon: Inconsistencies and Contradictions
The argument against the Dragon Ball movies being canon rests heavily on several key points:
- Timeline Conflicts: Many movies take place during established points in the main series, yet depict characters at different power levels or situations that wouldn’t logically fit with what was happening simultaneously in the canonical narrative. For example, characters like Broly appearing multiple times with different backstories and power scaling.
- Character Power Discrepancies: The power levels exhibited by characters in the movies often deviate significantly from their established power levels in the main series. Enemies that should be easily defeated pose significant threats, and vice versa.
- Self-Contained Storylines: Most of the Dragon Ball movies tell self-contained stories that don’t significantly impact or get referenced in the main Dragon Ball narrative. They are largely isolated events.
- Akira Toriyama’s Involvement: While Akira Toriyama was involved in the creation of some movie characters and concepts, he typically didn’t write or directly supervise the storylines of the early movies. This has changed in more recent years with movies like Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’, which he was heavily involved in.
Nuances and Grey Areas: Semi-Canon and Toriyama’s Input
While the traditional answer is that the Z movies aren’t canon, there are important nuances to consider. Akira Toriyama’s evolving involvement in the franchise has blurred the lines of what constitutes canon, especially with the advent of Dragon Ball Super.
Movies with Toriyama’s Direct Involvement
- Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’: These movies were heavily written and supervised by Akira Toriyama and served as the direct foundation for the Dragon Ball Super anime. As such, they are widely considered to be canon and integral to the Super storyline.
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly: Toriyama re-envisioned Broly’s character, integrating him into the current timeline in a way that is consistent with Super’s story. This movie is also considered canon.
- Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero: Toriyama was involved in the story and character designs. This too is considered canon.
“What If?” Scenarios and Alternate Timelines
Many fans consider the older Dragon Ball movies as “What If?” scenarios or stories taking place in alternate timelines. This allows them to enjoy the narratives without having to reconcile them with the established canon. They exist as entertaining deviations from the main story.
The Current Stance: A Shifting Landscape
The definition of canon in Dragon Ball is not static. With Akira Toriyama more actively involved in the franchise and the immense popularity of the movies, the landscape is constantly shifting. While the early movies remain largely non-canon, those written or heavily overseen by Toriyama have found a place within the established timeline. This means that currently, four Dragon Ball movies (Battle of Gods, Resurrection ‘F’, Dragon Ball Super: Broly, and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero) are considered canon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 FAQ 1: Are any of the original Dragon Ball movies canon?
No, none of the original Dragon Ball movies (pre-Z) are considered canon to the main Dragon Ball timeline. They are self-contained stories that don’t impact the overall narrative.
H3 FAQ 2: What about the Dragon Ball Z movies?
With the exception of Battle of Gods, Resurrection ‘F’, Dragon Ball Super: Broly, and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, the Dragon Ball Z movies are generally considered non-canon.
H3 FAQ 3: Why aren’t the earlier movies canon?
The earlier movies often contradict the established timeline, feature inconsistent power levels, and were not directly overseen by Akira Toriyama. They’re best viewed as alternate storylines or “what if” scenarios.
H3 FAQ 4: Is Dragon Ball GT canon?
This is a widely debated topic. While Dragon Ball GT was initially considered a continuation of the anime series, it was not written or created by Akira Toriyama. Dragon Ball Super has effectively superseded GT in the official timeline. Therefore, Dragon Ball GT is not considered canon by many fans and the official Dragon Ball Super material.
H3 FAQ 5: Does it really matter if a movie is canon or not?
That depends on the individual fan. For some, maintaining strict adherence to canon is crucial for enjoying the story. For others, the non-canon movies offer fun and engaging experiences outside the constraints of the main timeline.
H3 FAQ 6: Are all the characters from the movies canon?
Characters like Broly, who have been re-introduced and re-imagined in canon movies like Dragon Ball Super: Broly, are now considered part of the canon. However, characters who only appeared in non-canon movies remain outside the established timeline.
H3 FAQ 7: How do I know which movies Akira Toriyama was involved in?
Generally, information about Akira Toriyama’s involvement is available in the movie’s credits or through interviews and official statements. Movies from Battle of Gods onwards have seen increasing input from him.
H3 FAQ 8: Where does Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero fit into the timeline?
Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero takes place after the events of the Dragon Ball Super: Broly movie and before the end of the Dragon Ball Z series (specifically, before the 28th World Martial Arts Tournament).
H3 FAQ 9: What’s the best way to enjoy the non-canon movies?
Approach the non-canon movies as standalone stories that offer unique perspectives and battles without necessarily impacting the main Dragon Ball narrative.
H3 FAQ 10: Is there a definitive source for what’s canon?
The closest thing to a definitive source is Akira Toriyama himself and the official materials associated with the manga and Dragon Ball Super anime.
H3 FAQ 11: Will future Dragon Ball movies be canon?
Given the success of Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, it’s likely that future movies will continue to be integrated into the canon, especially with Toriyama’s continued involvement.
H3 FAQ 12: How has the definition of canon changed over time in Dragon Ball?
The definition of canon has evolved. Initially, only the manga and anime series were considered canon. As the franchise expanded and Toriyama became more involved, the definition has broadened to include specific movies that he directly contributes to, effectively blurring the lines between the previously strict separation of canon and non-canon material.