Watching the Dragon Ball franchise can feel like traversing a hyperbolic time chamber of storylines and alternate realities. To experience Dragon Ball Super (DBS) movies in chronological order, and thus fully appreciate the ongoing narrative, you must prioritize their placement within the series’ timeline. This guide provides a definitive viewing order, along with answers to frequently asked questions, ensuring you enjoy the Super Saiyan journey without timeline turbulence.
The Dragon Ball Super Movie Viewing Order: A Battle Plan
Here’s the precise order in which to watch the Dragon Ball Super movies to maximize your understanding and enjoyment of the story:
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Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods (2013): Although originally released under the Dragon Ball Z banner, this movie establishes the divine presence of Lord Beerus, the God of Destruction, and introduces the concept of Super Saiyan God. Its events are later re-told, albeit with slight differences, in the Dragon Ball Super anime. Watching the movie first provides a more concise, visually distinct introduction to these key elements.
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Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ (2015): This movie continues the saga begun in Battle of Gods, focusing on the return of Frieza after being resurrected. He trains to achieve a new, devastating form: Golden Frieza. This movie, like Battle of Gods, is also adapted into the Dragon Ball Super anime, so watching it beforehand provides a visual head start.
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Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018): This film is a pivotal point in the Dragon Ball Super canon. It officially introduces the powerful Saiyan Broly into the main timeline, revamping his backstory and solidifying his role as a major character. It also showcases impressive animation and incredible fight sequences. This movie takes place after the Tournament of Power arc in the Dragon Ball Super anime.
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Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022): Set several years after the events of Dragon Ball Super: Broly, this movie focuses on Gohan and Piccolo as they face a newly reformed Red Ribbon Army and their powerful androids, Gamma 1 and Gamma 2. This film emphasizes character development and introduces new transformations, particularly Gohan Beast.
Understanding the Timeline Context
It’s crucial to understand that the first two movies, Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’, are retold within the Dragon Ball Super anime series. While the anime versions expand upon certain plot points and introduce additional characters, the core events remain the same. Therefore, watching the movies before diving into the anime provides a quicker and visually engaging introduction to those storylines. The latter two films, Broly and Super Hero, are canon and directly continue the narrative following the anime series’ end.
The Gap Between Anime and Movies
The Dragon Ball Super anime concluded before the release of Dragon Ball Super: Broly. This means there’s a narrative gap between the anime’s ending (the Tournament of Power) and the events of the subsequent movies. The movies therefore serve as the continuation of the overall Dragon Ball Super story, expanding upon the characters and universe established in the anime.
Why the Specific Order Matters
Following this order ensures that you understand the evolving power levels, character relationships, and overarching threats facing Goku and his friends. Jumping ahead or watching the movies out of sequence can lead to confusion and a diminished appreciation for the story’s progression. The evolution of transformations, the introduction of new villains, and the deepening of existing character arcs all build upon each other, making chronological viewing essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are the Dragon Ball Z movies before Battle of Gods important?
No, the Dragon Ball Z movies released before Battle of Gods are not considered part of the main canon. They are generally considered to be alternate timelines or “what if” scenarios. While entertaining, they are not essential for understanding the Dragon Ball Super storyline.
2. Do I need to watch the Dragon Ball Super anime before watching the movies?
Ideally, yes. Watching the Dragon Ball Super anime up to the end of the Tournament of Power arc provides essential context and character development that enhances the movie-watching experience. However, if you only want to watch the movies, understanding the basic premise of the Tournament of Power (a battle between universes) is sufficient before watching Dragon Ball Super: Broly.
3. Is there a Dragon Ball Super season 2?
As of the current date, there is no official confirmation of a Dragon Ball Super Season 2 anime. However, the story continues through the manga and the movies, keeping the possibility of a future anime season alive. The enduring popularity of the franchise makes a continuation highly probable.
4. Where can I watch the Dragon Ball Super movies?
The Dragon Ball Super movies are available on various streaming platforms such as Crunchyroll, Funimation, and sometimes Hulu, depending on your region. You can also purchase or rent them digitally from platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play. Physical copies (Blu-ray and DVD) are also widely available.
5. Are the movies dubbed or subbed?
The Dragon Ball Super movies are available in both dubbed (English) and subbed (Japanese with English subtitles) versions. The availability of each version may vary depending on the platform or retailer.
6. What is the difference between the anime and the movies Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’?
The anime versions of Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’ are more detailed and expand on certain plot points, introducing new characters and scenarios. However, they also tend to be slower-paced compared to the movies. The movies offer a more concise and visually dynamic retelling of the same core story.
7. Is Broly good or bad in Dragon Ball Super: Broly?
In Dragon Ball Super: Broly, Broly is portrayed as more of a tragic figure than a purely evil one. While he possesses immense power and can be easily manipulated, he is not inherently malicious. His actions are primarily driven by his traumatic past and his father’s vengeful desires.
8. Who is stronger, Goku or Gohan in Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero?
Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero strongly implies that Gohan, after achieving his Gohan Beast form, is potentially stronger than Goku. The movie focuses on Gohan’s growth and his unlocking of hidden potential, positioning him as a powerful force capable of surpassing even Goku’s limits.
9. What is the significance of the Red Ribbon Army’s return in Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero?
The return of the Red Ribbon Army in Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero symbolizes the enduring presence of evil and the need for constant vigilance. It also serves as a reminder of Goku’s past and the impact he had on dismantling the organization years ago. Their return allows for the introduction of new threats and a fresh conflict within the Dragon Ball Super universe.
10. What is the power level scaling like in Dragon Ball Super compared to Dragon Ball Z?
Power level scaling in Dragon Ball Super is significantly higher and less consistent compared to Dragon Ball Z. The introduction of divine beings like Gods of Destruction and Angels has elevated the power ceiling to unimaginable levels. This often leads to debates and discussions among fans regarding the true extent of each character’s capabilities.
11. Will there be more Dragon Ball Super movies?
While no new movies are officially announced as of the current date, the ongoing popularity of the Dragon Ball franchise strongly suggests that more movies are likely. The success of Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero demonstrates the demand for big-screen adventures within the Dragon Ball universe.
12. Do the Dragon Ball Super movies have any post-credit scenes?
Typically, Dragon Ball Super movies do not have significant post-credit scenes that tease future storylines. However, it is always advisable to watch through the end credits as there may be small character moments or visual gags included, especially in the Japanese version. These moments often add a touch of humor or provide closure to the film’s narrative.