Dragon Ball: A 40-Year Retrospective

Overview

• Key Themes: Growth, overcoming adversity, power, adventure, mystery, excitement, family, friendship, and magic.
• Origins: Started in 1984 post-Dr. Slump with Dragon Boy as a prototype.
• Inspiration: Moved away from Western influences to Chinese Legends, notably Journey to the West.

Key Arcs

Pilaf Arc

• Initial Reception: Mixed. Gag manga elements were still prominent.
• Goku: Initially a plain protagonist.
• Editor’s Note: Needed a quicker pace.

Tournaments & Red Ribbon Army Arc

• First Tournament: Goku loses, allowing room for future developments.
• Red Ribbon Army: Structured like a video game with bosses and levels.
• Significant Moments:
  • Goku meets adoptive grandfather.
  • Revival of Bora.

Tenkaichi Budokai & King Piccolo Arc

• Tenkaichi Budokai: Repeated but still compelling.
• King Piccolo: Sets the dark tone and future structure for Dragon Ball.
  • Goku's Growth: Significant growth in strength and character.

Transition to Dragon Ball Z

• Dragon Ball Z Name: Toei’s decision, not in the manga.
• Big Plot Twist: Goku is an alien; Raditz introduces Saiyan heritage.
• Reception: Mixed emotions; revitalized interest.

Dragon Ball Z Significant Arcs

• Saiyan Arc: Introduction of Gohan and Vegeta.
• Frieza Arc: Space opera, exploration of new planets and races.
• Cell Saga: High stakes with androids and Cell.
• Buu Saga: Messy but integral for its concluding elements.

Evolution and Impact

• Tone: Changed significantly over time, from adventure/gag to serious combat.
• GT Era: Mixed reception, no Toriyama involvement. GT’s ending celebrated.
• Fan Projects: Kept the series alive during droughts (e.g., Dragon Ball Z Abridged).

Revival and New Content

• Battle of Gods: Successful revival; introduces Gods and new universes.
• Resurrection F: Mixed reception; return of Frieza.
• Dragon Ball Super: Anime continued the legacy, mixed quality but important moments (e.g., Tournament of Power).
• Manga: Different from anime, Toyotaro (fan-turned-pro) continued the story.
• Movies
  • Dragon Ball Super: Broly: Introduced new Broly with updated style.
  • Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero: Focused on Gohan and Piccolo, 3D animated.

Legacy and Future

• Continued Popularity: New series and games keep emerging.
• Toriyama’s Impact: Indelible mark on manga and anime culture.
• Future: New series Dragon Ball Daima, new games.

Tribute to Akira Toriyama

• Innovative Storytelling: Combining comedy, drama, and action.
• Legacy: Inspired generations and changed lives.
• Community Sentiment: Deep gratitude and recognition for his contributions.