Dragon Ball holds a significant place in the annals of anime history, having shattered barriers and brought this art form into mainstream culture in the West during the ’90s and early 2000s.Akira Toriyama’s seminal series has left an indelible mark on countless generations of anime and manga enthusiasts. However, after its conclusion in the United States in 2003, the franchise largely fell silent for nearly a decade. During this time, the franchise endured one of its most significant blunders.
In 2009, Dragonball Evolution, a live-action adaptation directed by James Wong, was launched to an unenthusiastic reception worldwide. While the film ultimately managed to turn a profit at the box office, it met with overwhelming criticism from both fans and reviewers, who condemned its casting, acting, direction, and narrative — all considered to be a gross misunderstanding of the essence of Dragon Ball.
One of the most disheartened voices concerning the film was that of Akira Toriyama himself. Although the talented creator had wrapped up the original manga in 1995 and maintained a distant relationship with the franchise thereafter, he stepped in to voice his concerns about the adaptation.Regrettably, his insights went largely unheeded.
Akira Toriyama’s Concerns Ignored by Dragonball Evolution Creators
A Creator’s Attempt to Salvage a Disastrous Adaptation
After the release of 2013’s Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods, Toriyama discussed his renewed involvement in an interview with Asahi Shimbun Digital. He revealed that the film’s lack of fidelity to the series prompted him to re-engage with the franchise after a significant hiatus. This effort ultimately contributed to the series resurgence just two years later.
Toriyama shared, “During the Hollywood adaptation, the script failed to grasp the essence of the world and its characteristics. Moreover, its conventional storyline left much to be desired.”Despite being the one voice the filmmakers should have sought to impress, he noted, “I provided feedback and offered suggestions, but they seemed overconfident and did not pay heed to my advice.”
The neglect of Toriyama’s expertise is evident in Dragonball Evolution, as it caricatured one of the franchise’s most pivotal characters. By reconstituting Goku as a typical 2000s high school teen embroiled in cliche conflicts, the film appeared more like a parody than a sincere adaptation. Despite its failures, fans might view this film as a turning point that ultimately catalyzed the franchise revival in the 2010s.
The Impact of Dragonball Evolution on Toriyama’s Involvement in Battle of Gods
The Legendary Artist’s Response to the Film’s Failings
Upon reflecting on his decision to immerse himself in Battle of Gods, Toriyama was explicit about his dissatisfaction with Dragonball Evolution. He stated, “What was ultimately produced was not a Dragon Ball film that matched my expectations.”He expressed a desire to create a world and narrative that could only be conceptualized by him, taking a stronger stance after witnessing the liberties taken in the live-action adaptation.
Although Dragonball Evolution is often remembered as a misstep in adapting a beloved anime property, its shortcomings inadvertently pushed Toriyama back into the fold. This led to a resurgence for the franchise, yielding the iconic Battle of Gods and the launch of the Dragon Ball Super anime, which has reenergized the series and introduced exciting new characters.
Thus, one can argue that despite its faults, Dragonball Evolution served as an unforeseen catalyst for a brighter future for the series and fans alike. Had the film’s creators been receptive to Toriyama’s insights, the trajectory of both their project and the subsequent works could have dramatically differed.
Dragon Ball’s Uncertain Future Without Its Creator
Navigating New Horizons Post-Toriyama
In March 2024, the anime community mourned the passing of Akira Toriyama, whose visionary contributions shaped the franchise and influenced fans across the globe. Later that year, Dragon Ball Daima, which realized Toriyama’s last vision, premiered to enthusiastic audiences eager for Goku’s latest escapades. This new installment offers a blend of nostalgia and innovation, and it is scheduled to conclude in February 2025.
However, the path ahead for Dragon Ball looks uncertain without its legendary creator’s guidance. The franchise has experienced mixed outcomes in Toriyama’s absence, as exemplified by the perplexing take displayed in Dragonball Evolution. Moving forward, Dragon Ball Super will be developed by series illustrator Toyotarou, with a new one-shot chapter debuting in 2025 – marking the first major narrative shift without Toriyama’s direct involvement.
Dragon Ball remains arguably the most recognizable franchise in anime history. Yet, its live-action adaptation, Dragonball Evolution, is widely regarded as a significant miscalculation. The film could have benefitted from a closer alignment with Toriyama’s vision; nonetheless, the resultant Battle of Gods has provided fans with a satisfactory redemption. As the series embarks on a new journey devoid of its original creator, it faces an unpredictable future.
Source: Asahi Shimbun Digital (translated by Kanzenshuu)
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