There are 23 Dragon Ball movies in total, spanning the original Dragon Ball series, Dragon Ball Z, and the more recent Dragon Ball Super. This extensive filmography offers fans a diverse range of stories, battles, and expansions on the beloved Dragon Ball universe.
A Deep Dive into the Dragon Ball Filmography
Dragon Ball’s transition from manga and anime to the silver screen has been a long and vibrant one, punctuated by iconic transformations, devastating attacks, and memorable villains. Each film, while often existing outside the main timeline, contributes to the overall Dragon Ball experience. Understanding the chronology, canonicity, and variations in these films is essential for any dedicated fan.
Tracing the Evolution: From Dragon Ball to Dragon Ball Super
The evolution of the Dragon Ball movies mirrors the evolution of the franchise itself. The early Dragon Ball movies were lighthearted adventures, capturing the whimsical spirit of Goku’s early years. Dragon Ball Z films upped the ante with planet-threatening villains and epic battles, solidifying the series’ reputation for over-the-top action. The Dragon Ball Super films brought modern animation techniques and complex narratives, further expanding the Dragon Ball lore and introducing powerful new characters.
Chronological Breakdown of Dragon Ball Movies
Here’s a comprehensive list of all 23 Dragon Ball movies in chronological order of release (Japanese release date):
- Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies (1986)
- Dragon Ball: Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle (1987)
- Dragon Ball: Mystical Adventure (1988)
- 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 GT: A Hero’s Legacy (1996) – Technically not Dragon Ball Z, but often grouped with Z films.
- Dragon Ball: The Path to Power (1996) – A re-telling of the original Dragon Ball story.
- 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 (Announced for 2024) Dragon Ball Daima is a new series, not a film.
Note: While Dragon Ball Daima is generating significant buzz, it is an upcoming series, and therefore not counted in the total number of Dragon Ball films.
Navigating the Canon: Which Movies Matter?
The canonicity of the Dragon Ball movies has been a subject of debate among fans for years. While most of the Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z movies are considered non-canon – meaning they exist outside the established timeline of the main series – they still offer unique stories and character interactions. Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods, Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’, Dragon Ball Super: Broly, and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero are considered canon to the Dragon Ball Super continuity, as they were directly involved in the development and overseen by Akira Toriyama himself.
The Impact of Toriyama’s Involvement
Akira Toriyama’s increasing involvement in the Dragon Ball movies from Battle of Gods onwards has significantly impacted their canonicity and overall quality. His direct participation ensures that the films align with the established lore and characterizations of the main series, making them essential viewing for fans seeking a deeper understanding of the Dragon Ball universe.
Dragon Ball Movie FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about the Dragon Ball movies, providing further insights into their production, canonicity, and overall impact.
FAQ 1: Are all the Dragon Ball movies worth watching?
While the quality and canonicity vary, most Dragon Ball fans agree that the movies are worth watching. They offer unique stories, character interactions, and battles that aren’t found in the main series. Even the non-canon films provide entertaining diversions and opportunities to see favorite characters in new situations. The Dragon Ball Super films are particularly recommended due to their canonicity and high production value.
FAQ 2: Which Dragon Ball movie is considered the best by fans?
The “best” Dragon Ball movie is subjective, but Dragon Ball Super: Broly is frequently cited as a fan favorite. Its stunning animation, compelling story, and re-imagining of the iconic Broly character make it a standout film.
FAQ 3: Where can I watch all the Dragon Ball movies?
Many streaming services offer Dragon Ball movies, including Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Hulu. Digital purchase and rental options are also available on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play Movies. Availability may vary depending on your region.
FAQ 4: In what order should I watch the Dragon Ball movies?
For the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to watch the movies in chronological order of release. This allows you to appreciate the evolution of the animation style, storytelling, and overall tone of the Dragon Ball franchise.
FAQ 5: Are there any plans for future Dragon Ball movies?
While nothing is officially confirmed besides Dragon Ball Daima (which is a series), the continued success of Dragon Ball Super suggests that more Dragon Ball movies are likely in the future. Akira Toriyama’s involvement and the enduring popularity of the franchise make it a safe bet for future cinematic releases.
FAQ 6: What makes the Dragon Ball Super movies different from the Dragon Ball Z movies?
The Dragon Ball Super movies are considered canon, meaning they are part of the official timeline of the Dragon Ball universe. They also feature updated animation styles, more complex narratives, and the introduction of powerful new characters and transformations. Furthermore, Akira Toriyama has a more significant role in their creation.
FAQ 7: Which Dragon Ball Z movie introduced Broly for the first time?
Broly was first introduced in Dragon Ball Z: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan, released in 1993. However, the Broly featured in Dragon Ball Super: Broly is a re-imagined version of the character.
FAQ 8: Is Dragon Ball GT: A Hero’s Legacy canon?
Dragon Ball GT: A Hero’s Legacy is generally not considered canon. Dragon Ball GT itself is often debated in terms of canon, with Dragon Ball Super essentially ignoring the events of GT.
FAQ 9: How many movies feature Broly as the main antagonist?
Broly appears as the main antagonist in four Dragon Ball movies: Dragon Ball Z: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan, Dragon Ball Z: Broly – Second Coming, Dragon Ball Z: Bio-Broly, and, arguably, Dragon Ball Super: Broly. While the Super version is a different, re-imagined take, he still serves as the antagonist.
FAQ 10: What is the runtime of the average Dragon Ball movie?
The average runtime of a Dragon Ball movie is around 45 to 100 minutes. The Dragon Ball Super movies tend to be longer, often exceeding 90 minutes.
FAQ 11: Are there any Dragon Ball movies based on specific arcs from the manga or anime?
While many movies borrow elements or character designs from the main series, most Dragon Ball movies tell original stories that don’t directly adapt specific arcs. The Dragon Ball Super movies, however, tie directly into the Dragon Ball Super anime storyline.
FAQ 12: Do the Dragon Ball movies impact the power scaling in the main series?
Due to their non-canon status, most Dragon Ball movies don’t directly impact the power scaling in the main series. However, the introduction of characters like Broly and the transformations showcased in the films have influenced the overall perception of power levels within the Dragon Ball universe. The Dragon Ball Super movies are the exception, as they are part of the official continuity and therefore influence the power scaling.