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The humour in this episode is mostly a product of Goku’s usual antics, getting overly excited about the prospect of a new challenger, King Kai’s love hate relationship with his debatable decisions, Roshi’s perverted habits. Conversely the serious elements give balance to this otherwise slice-of-life episode. For example the fear over Beerus’ rampage upon the universe, and his incredible power. There are promises for more of Goten and Trunk’s mini adventures, Majin Buu’s eating habits and Vegeta’s training (which is away from Bulma’s party).
Sumitomo’s music is also taking be used effectively to fit situations within the episode. During moments of the episode where Old Kai’s fear was great the score becomes more intense to illustrate the sense of dread. Additionally the instrumentation was more soothing during the welcoming to Bulma’s birthday party to highlight the sense of peace assumed by the attendants.
In terms of pacing it wasn’t too bad, although some would argue the lack of action in an action-based series or the length of time required to reach it is an issue but I believe the humour and banter between characters was sufficient. Whether this keeps up, and whether or not story elements are dragged out unnecessarily remains to be seen.
To sum up this episode should serve as an introduction to the setting for Goku’s battle with Beerus, and what all the other characters are doing at that time. It gives us a general idea of the similarities and differences that can be expected between this first saga and similar events in Battle of Gods.
This weekend at San Diego Comic Con IGN spoke briefly with Justin Cook, dub voice of characters such as Dende, Super Buu and Raditz. In their interview Cook answered some questions about the upcoming Resurrection F, and some popular fan questions.
Initially asked about whether or not the new movie confirms that Dragon Ball GT is no longer canon Cook was sceptical.
“Well you know, I don’t know” he responded “I mean there has been a line of logic that says yes it does, but then on the other hand it takes place so far after the events of GT that perhaps it will stay in, I think only time will tell if GT ends up exiting the canon or not”. This was likely a misstatement on his part considering the fact Resurrection F actually takes place before the end of Z. He was probably saying this movie was made years after GT was produced, so Toriyama and the writers at TOEI likely have new ideas for the pre-GT timeline, which may contradict that series.
Cook was also delighted to see the comedy aspect being brought back to the franchise, but also for Resurrection F to cater to fans who want an action heavy work true to Z.
“It was a great blending of both Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z whereas Resurrection F really kind of hits the Dragon Ball Z audience very much. You’re talking a lot more fighting, a lot more action, the silliness is kind of drawn back. There is comic relief, which is, Beerus and Whis will make a return in this movie”
Naturally, being with Funimation Cook was asked about Dragon Ball Super.
“I can say that I’ve seen the first episode as I’m sure most of the public has, and I can tell you we’re really excited about the show for sure, as to what the future is”. Additionally, asked about a possible dub, Cook was hopeful “I would imagine”.
Cook was also asked about his favourite part of the series.
“To me the beauty of Dragon Ball Z, quite frankly, I know this sounds really cheesy is the lessons that come out of it – the pride before the fall, friends above all else, I mean those kind of themes that run throughout the course of the 500+ episodes the series has run is ultimately the pulsing heart of that series, but, you know these characters have been developed, and continually developed and I think the great thing about these movies is that for the first time we’re getting to see Goku’s character get a little more developed, he’s always been the constant thing throughout the whole Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, and so finally here we’re getting to see him grow a little bit as far as the training he’s doing and not wanting to merge with, you know, say Vegeta and make things go a little bit faster as far as the fights”.
Cook was also positive regarding Dragon Ball’s potential to continue from one generation to the next.
“I think that with the movies coming out now it has really made the generation gap, its blended that, so now I think you have parents now who are taking their kids to see these movies and they’re kids are getting involved, especially with Kai having been on for the last few years, it has really helped to introduce a new audience”.
Fans were also teased some explanation for the blue hair in Goku’s Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan transformation.
“Well there is nothing in the film that states exactly why that happens, but I can assume that he just discovered it in Battle of Gods, that power, so I’m thinking that’s his stable form, and I think what we’re seeing in Resurrection F is a well-trained finalized form of this Super Saiyan God”.
Fans were also promised an explanation for the symbol on Goku and Vegeta’s Resurrection F gi.
“That’s going to be explained in the movie but that’s actually an autograph, so it turns out that the cast of Dragon Ball Z likes getting autographs as much as giving them”.
And of course Cook was asked about Jaco The Galactic Patrolman.
“Well this is a guy who polices the galaxy, ands makes sure that the races don’t necessarily intermingle, that there’s no saiyans on Earth, he hasn’t been doing a great job [LAUGHS]. But, he’s a fantastic new character in this new series, and this movie, really adds a lot, and I guess, you know, this is not really a spoiler because people have seen the opening for Super as well so I guess he’s here to stay”.
This first episode was very consistent with the first manga chapter by Toyotaro, albeit a longer, expanded version, so most who have read that segment will know what to expect. Of course there are slight differences, such as reintroducing some of the characters we know and love (Gohan, Videl, Chi-Chi, Majin Buu, amongst others) and the removal of dream sequences.
The graphics were a treat for the eye. All of the characters and backgrounds are clear and sharp, as they should in 2015 animation. The vibrant colours both make the series feel contemporary and add consistency to the comedic and light-hearted tone. For frame elements such as Goku’s tractor and the river which Goten and Trunks used to fetch water the careful combination of 2D and 3D animation give greater clarity and perspective for the images which wouldn’t have been as easy in the past.
The best part of this episode, of course was the humour, it was humane, natural and lively. From Goku’s appetite for both lunch and training, to Majin Buu’s juvenile antics, and Goten and Trunks’ naivety there is something for everyone. And the humour is not just in character dynamics, but also carried by subtle hints, such as Gohan’s book titled “Muzukashii Hon” (which translates to “difficult book”) whilst indulging in his early scholarly pursuits. Nothing felt forced or overdone, everything was true to the characters, and reminiscent of Dragon Ball’s roots.
Keep in mind this series will be written by Toriyama, and as a result there is greater potential for the comedic side of Dragon Ball to return. Since the series is currently taking place during the 10-year gap between Kid Buu’s defeat and the 28th Tenkaichi Budokai there is ample opportunity to explore characters such as Goku and Vegeta and how they act in times of peace (having saiyan blood and thirst for battle). This is seen with Goku due to his training urges, and the brief glimpses of Vegeta in the second episode preview.
The pacing was also well done. Every character, with the exception of Piccolo was given just enough screen time for both new and old viewers to become comfortable with the characters, and what their purpose is in the series. For example Master Roshi was only seen when he heard news that was appealing to him, and viewers learn why, because of who he is it can be for the wrong reasons.
In short, a super (pun intended) comeback episode for the franchise, ending with an intriguing preview for next week’s episode.
The next instalment of the Derek Padula’s Dragon Ball fandom books has just been released. In Dragon Soul : 30 Years of Fandom, fans can look forward to stories from 27 Dragon Ball professionals, including Sean Schemmel (Goku) and Chris Sabat (Vegeta) where they talk about how Dragon Ball changed their lives and why it’s such an important series internationally.
Additional professionals include the following:
Voice Actors
Chris Ayres (Freeza)
Chris Rager (Mister Satan)
Mike McFarland (Master Roshi)
Chuck Huber (Android 17)
Kyle Herbert (Son Gohan)
Jason Douglas (Beerus)
Chris Cason (Tien Shinhan)
Canadian Voice Actors
Peter Kelamis (Goku)
Brian Drummond (Vegeta)
Latin American Voice Actors
Mario Castaneda (Goku)
Rene Garcia (Vegeta)
Eduardo Garza (Krillin)
Other Voice Actors
Caspar Phillipson (Goku – Danish version)
Wendel Bezerra (Goku – Brazillian version)
Jose Antonio Gavira (Goku – Spanish version)
Eric Legrand (Vegeta – French version)
Julia Olivia (Chi-Chi – Spanish version)
Peter Secher Schmidt (Freeza – Danish version)
Funimation Employees
Justin Rojas
Adam Sheehan
Rick Villa
Other Professionals
Bruce Faulconer (Funimation Inhouse Dub composer)
David Hernando (manga editor)
Olivier Richard (French journalist)
In addition, the book contains stories from 81 fans in 25 countries, such as the following:
Lawrence Simpson (MasakoX) from Team Four Star
RobotUnderdog (creators of Dragon Ball Z : Light of Hope)
Twitter star Goku
Malik (Dragon Ball New Age)
Salagir from Dragon Ball Multiverse
Marcus Brimage (MMA fighter)
Youtube celebrities : Nelson Junior (Casa do Kame), SSJGoshin4
Chris Stuckmann (Film critic)
Famous cosplayers : “living Ichigo”, Atara Collis, and Jah’lon Escudero
Patrick Galbraith, Nestor Rubio, and Vicente Ramirez (authors)
The book is written by Derek Padula, author of The Dao of Dragon Ball, writer and co-creator of Dragon Ball Z : Light of Hope.
Argentinian company JPosters has revealed Dragon Ball Super, the first new series for the franchise has been licensed by FOX for distribution in Latin American countries. While no official date has been announced this is the first announcement regarding plans to release the series outside of Japan. In addition, it was also stated that Toei has began offering the show up for distribution internationally.
The announcement was as follows:
#OFICIAL / ¡La esperada DRAGON BALL SUPER llegará a Latinoamérica por Canal FOX!
A pocos días del estreno en Japón, el canal cerro un trato con Toei para así transmitir la serie en nuestro territorio.
Y no sólo eso, ya que también compro los derechos de LOS CABALLEROS DEL ZODIACO: ALMA DE ORO.
Aún no se sabe nada sobre la fecha de lanzamiento por estas pampas, pero lo cierto es que Goku y Aioria estarán en FOX muy pronto, y esperemos que con su doblaje original.
#Official! The highly anticipated DRAGON BALL SUPER will come to Latin America on FOX!
With only few days left before the Japanese premiere, the channel disclosed an agreement with Toei to transmit the series in our territory.
And not only that, it also bought the rights to SAINT SEIYA: SOUL OF GOLD.
We don’t yet know anything about the launch date in our land, but we do know for certain that Goku and Aioria [from Soul of Gold] will be on FOX very soon, and hopefully with their original dub cast. What do you think?
Dragon Ball Super, which is the first all-new TV series for the franchise since the ending of Dragon Ball GT in 1997 begins syndication on 05 July 2015. The anime, which has an original story written by series creator Akira Toriyama will star Masako Nozawa and Kimitoshi Chioka has been confirmed to direct. The series will “…follow the aftermath of Goku’s fierce battle with Majin Buu, as he attempts to maintain earth’s fragile peace.” A manga adaptation by Toyataro will be released each month in V-Jump starting with the August 2015 issue.
In recent days we revealed a countdown, which appeared on the official Dragon Ball Super Twitter account. In today’s update, the following image of Beerus and Whis interacting with Champa and the still unnamed female character from the series’ trailer, which indicates these two new characters may play an integral role during the early episodes of the forthcoming season.
There are 8 days until the Dragon Ball Super broadcast begins! With the final episode of Dragon Ball Kai tomorrow, June 28th (Sunday), a 30-second version of the Dragon Ball Super preview will air for the first time! Here’s a quick peek from when it was edited together. (S)
Dragon Ball Super, which debuts on 05 July 2015 will be the first all-new TV series for the franchise since the ending of Dragon Ball GT in 1997. The long awaited anime has an original story written by series creator Akira Toriyama, and will star Masako Nozawa, and it will be directed by Kimitoshi Chioka. The series will “…follow the aftermath of Goku’s fierce battle with Majin Buu, as he attempts to maintain earth’s fragile peace.” A manga adaptation by Toyataro will be released each month in V-Jump starting with the August 2015 issue.
The anime series, which debuts a week after the ending of Dragon Ball Kai reveals the following, as translated by Kanzenshuu:
Heya! I’m Goku! After 18 years, we’re striking out in a new series! A while after the battle with Majin Buu, some incredible guys have showed up in front of us: God of Destruction Beerus and Champa! Well, they’re gods at any rate, so I’m gonna fight with all my strength against Beerus and company, and get even stronger! The “Dragon Ball Super” broadcast starts next time! Don’t miss it!
Dragon Ball Super is the first all-new TV series for the franchise since the ending of Dragon Ball GT in 1997. The series will have an original story written by series creator Akira Toriyama, and will star Masako Nozawa, and it will be directed by Kimitoshi Chioka. The series will “…follow the aftermath of Goku’s fierce battle with Majin Buu, as he attempts to maintain earth’s fragile peace.” A manga adaptation by Toyataro will be released each month in V-Jump starting with the August 2015 issue.
Previously we revealed a countdown, which appeared on the official Dragon Ball Super Twitter account. In today’s update, a 30-second preview trailer has been teased for the upcoming Dragon Ball Super series due to hit Fuji TV on 05 July 2015.
There are 9 days left until the debut of “Dragon Ball Super”! The 30-second version of the first “Dragon Ball Super” on-air preview will be broadcast with the final “Dragon Ball Kai” episode the day after tomorrow, June 28th (Sunday)! Don’t miss it! (S)
Dragon Ball Super is the first all-new TV series for the franchise since the ending of Dragon Ball GT in 1997. The series will have an original story written by series creator Akira Toriyama, and will star Masako Nozawa, and it will be directed by Kimitoshi Chioka. The series will “…follow the aftermath of Goku’s fierce battle with Majin Buu, as he attempts to maintain earth’s fragile peace.” A manga adaptation by Toyataro will be released each month in V-Jump starting with the August 2015 issue.
Being the first new Dragon Ball series in 18 years Dragon Ball Super has to deliver, there is a lot of pressure on Akira Toriyama to write a good story. It goes without saying that Dragon Ball GT was itself a huge disappointment to the fans, but since Dragon Ball Super will be written by Toriyama it cannot be forgiven as easily.
I have been hearing from many fans about how Super remain exciting without experiencing fatigue. It must remain relevant, because its 2015 storytelling methods have evolved, and Dragon Ball has to follow this pattern. It is important for the franchise to introduce new and exciting plot twists, to have something unexpected. Many fans might be content with the established routine – a villain appears, kills people, the heroes train, heroes fight villain, heroes defeat villain, the dead are revived with the Dragon Balls, but the reality is, and its happened with other franchises, it will lead to franchise fatigue.
In particular, Youtubers have made some interesting contributions to this question. Blackenfist has said Dragon Ball Super needs a good story, and Chris Sanders has said the adventure aspect of the original Dragon Ball series must be brought back. As stated previously a good story can use aspects of established Dragon Ball narrative, but unless new methods of storytelling are developed it will feel dated.
For example the introduction of Beerus and Whis since Battle of Gods has meant Goku is not the strongest fighter in the known universe, and, as we know there are other Gods out there in the 12 universes. A good idea for developing the story without it feeling generic is to not let Goku surpass Beerus and Whis. Previously whenever Goku became the strongest warrior he knew someone stronger came along, when he defeated King Piccolo Mr. Pop was introduced, when he defeated Piccolo Jr Raditz was introduced, and the cycle continued. If Beerus and Whis remain stronger than Goku there will always be a reason for train harder, it won’t feel like Goku is safe simply because he knows how to use the Genki Dama (Spirit Bomb). Additionally because Beerus is a God of Destruction his presence will mean there is always tension, he can destroy planets if its his duty, this means that the series will not just be about a group of super warriors defending justice in the universe, there is always different sides, the distinction between good, evil and indifferent is not always easily defined. If there are always other factors to consider the action sequences, and the series in general will become more intriguing.
Another idea is that the battles can develop. Rather than simply being about huge power boosts, new Super Saiyan transformations, and giant energy blasts the battles could be won by one character outsmarting another, there will be a little more necessity for the viewer to think as they watch, or read (if they turn to the manga).
As Chris Sanders pointed out some adventure would help the series become more exciting and less predictable. However, fans know from Dragon Ball GT that the wrong type of adventure (Goku travelling with Pan and Trunks throughout space) can be disastrous. Since the notion of 12 universes has now been established in Dragon Ball, it is possible this will be explored in Dragon Ball Super, but until more story details emerge fans can only hope that it will be done right.
Of course the original Dragon Ball had as much comedy as adventure, so ideally for Dragon Ball Super to bring back that old school feel (such was implied in Battle of Gods) it should have both comedy and adventure, but in moderation, the problems GT faced was going overusing one or both. Geekdom101 suggested in one of his Youtube videos Toriyama could do something like Harry Potter and introduce a train that would take characters to other universes. This would be a good idea, but of course there are many more the series can take, now that a new Dragon Ball series written by Toriyama is upon us fans can only hope there is a better chance of seeing wacky humour that adults can appreciate as much as kids.
Keep watching this space for thoughts about Dragon Ball Super as new details emerge. There will be a Review section soon for all the latest episode and manga chapters of the series, which will include spoiler free sections and spoiler sections to suit everyone, but until then July 5th is just around the corner!
It has been a widely debated topic in the Dragon Ball community and fandom about whether or not main protagonist Son Goku is a good father. Often absences and self-indulgence are cited as reasons for the fans who claim Goku is a bad father. There are however fans willing to defend him.
In a recent Youtube debate Blackenfist claimed Goku was not a perfect, nor a great father but did show compassion for the ones he loved, while Rhymestyle argued Goku was a caring person it was the qualities of being a father he lacked:
The heroic, caring image is synonymous with Goku for many fans, but as Rhymestyle pointed out in the said debate Toriyama stated that he was unhappy with Goku’s image. Speaking to WIRED the manga artist known for writing the original Dragon Ball manga stated:
There’s how, basically, Son Goku from Dragon Ball doesn’t fight for the sake of others, but because he wants to fight against strong guys. So once Dragon Ball got animated, at any rate, I’ve always been dissatisfied with the “righteous hero”-type portrayal they gave him.
That does not say however that Goku is a bad father, but what fans should remember is that while he does what he can to protect his friends and family he is not responsible and often quite immature.
Goku’s passion for fighting is often obsessive, due to his saiyan blood he thirsts for battle, and often he forgets not everyone shares the same enthusiasm. This was seen during Gohan’s fight with Cell where Goku offered Cell a senzu bean in the hope Gohan would have a satisfying fight. It is likely at this point that Goku believed Gohan, with his hidden powers unlocked could defeat Cell at full power, and Goku wanted him to be proud for defeating the villain at his best.
Indeed, it could be argued Goku was adamant about training his sons, and Uub because he knew there would be times when he would not be able to save the world and he wanted a suitable prodigy to take his place. Nonetheless Goku’s naivety was an obstacle at the best of times, and it provided a link between the comedic approach to storytelling taken by the original Dragon Ball and the more higher scale action-oriented Dragon Ball Z.
Dragon Ball Ireland 