Overview of Dragon Ball Movies
- The Dragon Ball movies present thrilling, self-contained narratives featuring new adversaries, enriching the overarching saga.
- Although many films are not officially part of the canon, they still reference series events, introducing memorable abilities and transformations.
- Fans are encouraged to delve into these films for additional escapades with Goku and his companions, perfect for quick binge-watching sessions.
Renowned for its expansive television legacy, the Dragon Ball franchise boasts a diverse catalog of films. These cinematic offerings present unique tales, typically showcasing fresh antagonists for the Z Fighters to confront. The placement of each film within the timeline piques interest, given that the majority do not fall under canon. Instead, they exist in a parallel universe, often reflecting events from the series while still potentially integrating into the primary timeline. These movies are structured chronologically, aligning with various points in the main saga.
Unlike many anime films that tend toward generic storytelling, the Dragon Ball movies stand out with some of the franchise’s most exhilarating moments. Their relatively short durations allow fans to enjoy these supplementary adventures swiftly. Notably, certain abilities and transformations introduced in these films have garnered canon status in later Dragon Ball content, exemplifying the films’ significance.
Updated on January 7th, 2025, by Ritwik Mitra: The enduring popularity of Dragon Ball has captivated generations, drawing viewers into a world filled with incredible transformations and epic battles. The films, while often deemed fillers, are eagerly pursued by fans eager for more content. Their compact storytelling offers exciting sequences that enhance the established lore, showcasing new transformations and fusions that resonate within the series.
1. Dragonball Evolution
When to Watch: The Beginning of Dragon Ball
For many fans, it’s best to avoid Dragonball Evolution, a film notorious for its lackluster execution that many wish to forget. This Western adaptation of the Dragon Ball saga falters with subpar acting, inadequate special effects, and a convoluted plot, solidifying its reputation as one of cinema’s least favorable offerings.
While this movie attempts to reinterpret the origins of Dragon Ball, it diverges in problematic ways from the manga’s beloved narrative. Nonetheless, for completionists, watching it may be worthwhile to stay informed about all aspects of the franchise.
2. Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies
When to Watch: The Early Days of Dragon Ball
Several early Dragon Ball movies offer alternative interpretations of key story arcs. Curse of the Blood Rubies revisits Goku’s initial journey and his encounter with Bulma, albeit with notable alterations. Unlike the original, where Emperor Pilaf plays the main antagonist, this version introduces King Gurumes, a different foe.
This divergence, while divisive among fans, brings a nostalgic charm and presents a fresh perspective on Goku’s Dragon Ball quest, focusing on adventure rather than the action-heavy narratives that dominate later installations.
3. Dragon Ball: The Path to Power
When to Watch: The Original Beginnings
Celebrating the tenth anniversary of the franchise, Toei Animation released The Path to Power. This film recounts the early days of Dragon Ball, including Goku’s meetings with Bulma and other essential characters, pitting him against the Red Ribbon Army.
Despite not being a comprehensive synopsis of the original series, it serves as an engaging retelling worth experiencing for fans.
4. Dragon Ball: Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle
When to Watch: Early Training Days
In this narrative, Goku and Krillin need to prove themselves worthy of training under Master Roshi by rescuing a “princess.”This alternate version, Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle, serves primarily as fan service and may not offer much to casual viewers.
Admittedly, the film lacks the thrilling battles typical of the series, leaving it mainly to those enthusiasts who wish to explore every facet of the Dragon Ball universe.
5. Dragon Ball: Mystical Adventure
When to Watch: During Master Roshi’s Training
Mystical Adventure creatively combines elements from the Commander Red and Tien Shinhan Sagas, focused on a Martial Arts Tournament in Mifan. However, underneath this competitive surface lies a sinister plot orchestrated by Master Shen and General Tao.
This movie offers a coherent recounting of these stories but cannot surpass the original’s captivating charm, despite its aged qualities.
6. Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone
When to Watch: Between Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z
The film Dead Zone introduces a completely original storyline taking place shortly before Goku encounters Raditz. The plot centers around Garlic Jr., who plots to collect all the Dragon Balls and kidnaps Gohan in the process.
Goku intervenes, showcasing a partnership with Piccolo to confront this new threat. The film successfully weaves familiar motifs from the Raditz Saga while developing its narrative with a compelling flair.
7. Dragon Ball Z: The World’s Strongest
When to Watch: After the Saiyan Saga
In The World’s Strongest, the villains, Dr. Kochin and Dr. Wheelo, aim to find the ultimate fighter to host Wheelo’s brain. Naturally, this leads them to the formidable Z Warriors. To properly place this film within the timeline proves challenging due to inconsistencies.
Nevertheless, the film’s appealing animation quality and captivating villains ensure a gripping experience, highlighted by Goku’s impressive application of the Kaio-ken technique.
8. Dragon Ball Z: The Tree of Might
When to Watch: After Goku Arrives on Namek
The Tree of Might introduces Turles, a new Saiyan who plans to extract Earth’s nutrients via a powerful tree. Goku and his friends step in to thwart this dangerous plan. Despite being set after the Saiyan Saga, the timing creates some confusion regarding the presence of Goku and company.
While Turles’ character lacks depth, the film still offers excitement, showcasing Gohan transforming into a Great Ape, leading Goku to utilize a Spirit Bomb against his evil counterpart.
9. Dragon Ball Z: Lord Slug
When to Watch: Just Before Goku and Frieza Clash on Namek
Similar to previous films, Lord Slug is positioned during the Namek Saga, featuring a powerful villain determined to conquer Earth. As one of the stronger movie antagonists, Slug presents a tougher challenge for Goku.
This film marks an introduction to a nascent version of Super Saiyan, a thrilling moment unique to this piece, albeit the conclusion may leave fans wishing for a more compelling finale.
10. Dragon Ball Z: Cooler’s Revenge
When to Watch: Shortly After Future Trunks Arrives
The aftermath of Frieza’s demise leads to his older brother, Cooler, seeking revenge against Goku. This pursuit culminates in Cooler’s Revenge, where Goku showcases his evolved Super Saiyan abilities, creating a memorable encounter.
A notable highlight is Goku’s transformation, enhanced by a legendary soundtrack that resonates with fans, making Cooler an enduring figure even if he parallels Frieza’s story.
11. Dragon Ball Z: The Return of Cooler
When to Watch: Following Dende’s Ascendancy as Earth’s Guardian
In The Return of Cooler, Dende serves as Earth’s guardian during Cooler’s reemergence, who has taken control of New Namek using the Big Gete Star. The film introduces Meta-Cooler, who, despite an initial impressive entrance, lacks distinguishable traits as an antagonist.
The ultimate defeat of Meta-Cooler at the hands of Goku and Vegeta’s united strength feels insufficient given his earlier display of power, marking a somewhat anticlimactic end.
12. Dragon Ball Z: Super Android 13!
When to Watch: Post Dr. Gero’s Demise
The Android Saga shines as one of the most exhilarating arcs in Dragon Ball Z, with Super Android 13! introducing formidable foes. Following Dr. Gero’s death, the androids arise, with Goku as the primary target.
As the Tien-Shinhan Saga unfolds, the film captures the intense battles between Goku and the new androids, particularly when Goku harnesses his Super Saiyan energy to unleash a dynamic Spirit Bomb against Android 13.
13. Dragon Ball Z: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan
When to Watch: Just Before the Cell Games
In Broly’s introductory film, his father lures Vegeta into a trap to bait revenge. However, upon encountering Goku, Broly’s rage ignites due to a childhood trauma linked to the heroic Saiyan, motivating him to eliminate the Z Warriors.
This film notably debuts the Legendary Super Saiyan, providing an adrenaline-packed narrative despite suffering from a somewhat underwhelming backstory that was later enhanced in the Dragon Ball Super universe.
14. Dragon Ball Z: Bojack Unbound
When to Watch: After the Cell Games
Positioned effectively in the timeline, Dragon Ball Z: Bojack Unbound unfolds post-Cell’s defeat, as the chaos unleashes the titular villain. However, the absent Goku shifts the responsibility onto Gohan, who must rise to the challenge.
Utilizing the Ascended Super Saiyan transformation, Gohan succeeds in halting Bojack’s advancements, marking one of the more significant character developments amidst an otherwise lackluster film.
15. Dragon Ball Z: Broly – Second Coming
When to Watch: Before the 25th World Martial Arts Tournament
Approaching the 25th World Martial Arts Tournament, Broly reemerges on Earth, where Gohana takes on the challenge alongside Trunks and Videl in Goku’s absence.
This film introduces the iconic Family Kamehameha, marking a pivotal moment that solidifies Broly’s character as a legendary figure in the franchise, despite the controversial surrounding his origin story.
16. Dragon Ball Z: Bio-Broly
When to Watch: Following the 25th World Martial Arts Tournament
Bio-Broly presents a less celebrated entry, centered on a liquid clone of the Legendary Super Saiyan that wreaks havoc on Goten and Trunks. As the main heroes fight another threat, it’s up to the young Saiyans, Krillin, and Android 18 to save the day.
Consequently, this movie is regarded as one of the less impressive tales in the Dragon Ball canon, showcasing a less intimidating incarnation of Broly, which decreased its appeal for fans. Fortunately, lasting impressions lead to more successful reinterpretations in Dragon Ball Super.
17. Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn
When to Watch: Just Before Super Buu’s Appearance
Fusion Reborn embarks with turmoil in the afterlife, as a powerful foe named Janemba disrupts the balance, leading Goku and Vegeta to intervene. Meanwhile, the rest of the Z Team faces threats from hell’s escaped inhabitants.
This film is notable for introducing Gogeta, Goku and Vegeta’s fusion form, setting the stage for future canon appearances. It’s an outstanding addition to the Dragon Ball lineup that every fan should experience, especially for those enamored with the fusion concept from Dragon Ball Super.
18. Dragon Ball Z: Wrath of the Dragon
When to Watch: After the Kid Buu Arc Concludes
As peace resumes post-Buu saga, the emergence of Hirudegarn disrupts tranquility. Joined by the enigmatic hero Tapion, the Z Fighters embark on a quest to halt this behemoth, uncovering intriguing connections between them.
Goku also debuts a spectacular new technique during his Super Saiyan 3 transformation known as Dragon Fist, providing one of the most visually appealing moments in the series. The film ultimately enriches Trunks’ storyline, thanks to Tapion’s passing gift.
19. Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods
When to Watch: The Opening of Dragon Ball Super
Battle of Gods is set in the aftermath of Kid Buu’s defeat, centering on Beerus, the God of Destruction, who awakens to seek an opponent worthy of his formidable prowess. His pursuit for the fabled Super Saiyan God ultimately leads him to confront Goku.
This film brilliantly revitalizes the franchise, offering thrilling action and introducing an exhilarating power-up that expands Goku’s capabilities, positioning it as one of the finest Dragon Ball movies ever produced.
20. Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’
When to Watch: Following Battle of Gods
Taking place after the events of Battle of Gods, Resurrection ‘F’ features Frieza’s revival through Shenron’s wish. He returns stronger, hell-bent on seeking revenge against Goku and his allies.
As Goku and Vegeta rise to the challenge with their Super Saiyan Blue forms, this film not only sets the stage for future arcs within the Super series but also recalls Frieza’s significant role in Goku’s evolution as a powerful fighter.
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