Key Points from Dragon Ball Super: Superhero on Piccolo's Character Development

Background and Initial Concept

• Initial Plan: Akira Toriyama originally intended for the movie to focus on Piccolo.
• Script Alteration: Focus shifted to Gohan in the climax, yet Piccolo's story remained significant.

Piccolo's Evolution in Dragon Ball

• Introduction:
  • Initially a reflection of his father, King Piccolo, sharing memories and physical attributes.
  • Aimed for vengeance but showcased unique traits from the start.
• Character Shift:
  • Showed restraint post-defeat against Goku, indicating humility and introspection.
  • Transitioned from purely evil to more nuanced through interactions, especially with Goku and Gohan.

The Influence of Goku and Gohan

• Impact of Goku:
  • Goku’s purity influenced Piccolo towards good.
  • Sacrifice for Gohan’s protection marked a pivotal shift.
  • Retained his body in the afterlife, signaling judgement not just on past sins but on new deeds.

Piccolo's Namekian Heritage

• Discovery on Namek:
  • Learns his true Namekian identity from Saiyans.
  • Emphasized his evolving purpose, focusing on saving Gohan and upholding Namekian values.
• Merging with Nail:
  • Enhanced his power and connection to Namekian culture and values.
  • Motivated by Nail’s will and the namekians’ plight against Frieza.

Post-Namek Journey

• Return to Earth:
  • Chooses Earth as home, aligning with his bonds with Gohan and Goku.
  • Trains with Goku and Gohan when Androids emerge, demonstrating his evolved relationship.
• Fusion with Kami:
  • Completes his identity as the nameless Namekian, merging memories and gaining insights.
  • Fuses warrior and dragon Clan attributes, enriching his self-understanding.

Dragon Ball Super and Superhero Movie

• Underutilization:
  • Piccolo was less prominent in the Buu saga and early Dragon Ball Super.
  • Recent developments in Dragon Ball Super focus back on him.
• Potential Unlock and Transformation:
  • Wishes for potential unlock from Shenron.
  • Transformation into "Orange Piccolo" with added power, highlighted through Shenron's respect.

Symbolism and Thematic Completion

• Cultural Reverence:
  • Transformation reflects Namekian reverence for Dragon Balls.
  • Design and colors connect to Namekian heritage and pride.
• Symbol on Back:
  • Represents Namekian pride and complete character development.

Conclusion

• Piccolo’s Journey:
  • From Demon King beginnings to a protective figure and hero.
  • Embodying a complete Namekian identity and character evolution.

Summary

Piccolo's character arc throughout Dragon Ball reveals a journey from a villainous figure seeking revenge to a complex character who embodies Namekian pride and values. Through key interactions, self-discovery, and symbolic transformations, Piccolo becomes a pillar of strength and heritage in Dragon Ball's narrative.