How to Watch Dragon Ball Movies Chronologically and by Release Date

The Dragon Ball series has been a beloved and enduring part of the anime world for over 30 years. It has captivated audiences from Japan to the United States, where many grew up watching the American dubbed version on Toonami. Dragon Ball remains a classic that continues to be cherished by fans worldwide.

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The TV series is where most of the action unfolds, but Dragon Ball has also made its mark on the big screen with a series of movies. These movies offer a different way to experience the Dragon Ball universe, often providing concise, self-contained stories when the threat posed by a villain isn’t substantial enough to fill an entire television season.

Dragon Ball Movies: A Unique Experience

The movies exist in a somewhat separate realm from the TV series. While they share some loose connections and occasionally retell stories from the series in a condensed manner, they offer fans a chance to see more of their favorite characters in entertaining side stories. These films are typically considered non-canon, meaning that the events within them don’t have a direct impact on the main storylines of the TV series.

The original theatrical releases of these movies in Japan often coincided with the corresponding point in the TV series. For example, movies released during the Android and Cell sagas would feature characters and story elements from those sagas, even though they didn’t directly influence the TV series’ storyline. In some cases, the films simply offer an alternative, condensed take on events from the series.

Given the unique nature of the Dragon Ball movies, it can be challenging to determine exactly where each one fits within the series’ timeline. However, they stand alone as a way to enrich the overall Dragon Ball universe.

Dragon Ball Movies in Order of Release Date

Here’s a chronological list of the Dragon Ball movies in order of their release date:

1986 – Curse of the Blood Rubies

1987 – Sleeping Princess in the Devil’s Castle

1988 – Mystical Adventure

1989 – Dead Zone

1990 – The World’s Strongest

1990 – The Tree of Might

1991 – Lord Slug

1991 – Cooler’s Revenge

1992 – The Return of Cooler

1992 – Super Android 13!

1993 – Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan

1993 – Bojack Unbound

1994 – Broly – Second Coming

1994 – Bio-Broly

1995 – Fusion Reborn

1995 – Wrath of the Dragon

1996 – The Path to Power

2013 – Battle of Gods

2015 – Resurrection ‘F’

2018 – Broly

2022 – Super Hero

Exploring Dragon Ball Movies in Chronological Order

Let’s take a closer look at the movies and explore them in chronological order, starting with the early classics and moving forward:

Curse of the Blood Rubies (1986)

In “Curse of the Blood Rubies,” the story takes a different path from the first season of Dragon Ball. The Emperor Pilaf storyline is replaced with King Gourmeth, who seeks the Dragon Balls for his own nefarious purposes. Goku and his friends unite to stop King Gourmeth from obtaining the Dragon Balls and to prevent his reign of terror. This movie serves as an introductory experience for new viewers and played a crucial role in introducing Dragon Ball to American audiences.

The Path to Power (1996)

“The Path to Power” is another reimagining of the series’ origins, drawing from elements of the early seasons of the original anime. It focuses on young Goku’s adventures as he embarks on his quest to collect the Dragon Balls and faces the Red Ribbon Army. While it doesn’t align perfectly with the series’ continuity, it offers a tribute to long-time fans who have followed the series since the beginning.

Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle (1987)

In “Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle,” Goku seeks to enhance his martial arts skills by training under Master Roshi. He’s joined by Krillin, and their training takes an unexpected turn when they are tasked with rescuing a sleeping princess from the clutches of the sinister Lucifer. This movie provides an expanded and action-packed version of their initial assignment from Master Roshi, making it an enjoyable addition to the Dragon Ball universe.

Mystical Adventure (1988)

“Mystical Adventure” unfolds during the World Martial Arts Tournament hosted by Emperor Chiaotzu. When the emperor’s wife goes missing, he resolves to use the Dragon Balls to bring her back, unaware of the sinister intentions of Master Shen. Goku and his friends must join forces with former enemies to thwart Shen’s wicked plans. This film combines elements from the Red Ribbon Army Saga and the World Tournament Saga, offering entertaining martial arts action and marking a fitting conclusion to the early Dragon Ball movies.

Dead Zone (1989)

“Dead Zone” acts as a prelude to the Dragon Ball Z series. It follows a young Gohan who is kidnapped by Garlic Jr., intent on obtaining the Dragon Ball attached to Gohan’s hat to gain immortality. However, Garlic Jr. discovers the immense power within Gohan and decides to make him his pupil instead. With the Dragon Balls in hand, Garlic Jr. summons Shenron and makes a wish. Goku and his allies must unite to stop the immortal Garlic Jr. and rescue Gohan from his clutches. While it doesn’t seamlessly fit into the series’ continuity, this movie provides a captivating adventure before the epic sagas of Dragon Ball Z.

The World’s Strongest (1990)

In “The World’s Strongest,” Dr. Kochin seeks the Dragon Balls to free his master, Dr. Willow, from an icy prison. Believing that Master Roshi is the world’s mightiest fighter, they aim to transplant Dr. Willow’s brain into Roshi’s body. Bulma is abducted to lure the Z Fighters into action, and Goku and his comrades must come to her rescue. This movie is released during the series while the team is en route to Namek and shortly before the Frieza Saga. It delivers thrilling action and serves as an entertaining addition to the early Dragon Ball Z movie collection.

The Tree of Might (1990)

“The Tree of Might” introduces another Saiyan into the mix, Turles, who arrives on Earth with a group of space pirates aiming to harness the Tree of Might’s power to drain the planet of its life force. Turles bears a striking resemblance to Goku and attempts to recruit Gohan into his group, but the young Saiyan resists. Goku intervenes, leading to an epic battle with Turles. This film was released while the Z Fighters were in the midst of their confrontation with Frieza on Namek, making its precise timeline placement somewhat challenging. Despite this, “The Tree of Might” offers some of the most spectacular action sequences outside of the TV series.

Lord Slug (1991)

“The Earth faces another threat when an ancient Super Namekian named Lord Slug arrives to hijack it for its resources. Learning about the Dragon Balls, Slug summons Shenron to wish for eternal youth. The Z Fighters must stop the evil Namekian from seizing control of the Earth.” Released between episodes 81 and 82, just as Frieza begins revealing his transformations on Planet Namek, this film appears to take place as another adventure before the team travels to Namek. “Lord Slug” delivers captivating action, and it stands out as one of the more enjoyable early Dragon Ball Z movies.

Cooler’s Revenge (1991)

Following Goku’s triumph over Frieza, Cooler, Frieza’s brother, descends upon Earth seeking vengeance. He ambushes Goku, leaving him severely wounded. The Z Fighters must hold the line against Cooler’s minions until Gohan can secure the much-needed senzu beans to heal Goku before his showdown with Cooler. “Cooler’s Revenge” was released between episodes 99 and 100, as Goku’s battle with Frieza nears its conclusion. The events seem to take place after the arrival of Future Trunks but before the emergence of the Androids. Although it’s a classic “villain-of-the-week” adventure with a straightforward plot, it holds a special place as the first movie to feature Super Saiyan Goku in action and the first to receive a direct sequel.

Super Android 13! (1992)

Dr. Gero’s creations, Androids 17 and 18, eliminate him, but his subconscious continues to function in an underground supercomputer. This leads to the birth of Androids 13, 14, and 15, who are programmed to eliminate Goku and wipe out humanity. A spectacular battle unfolds as Super Saiyans confront the androids. “Super Android 13!” is the first Dragon Ball Z movie confirmed to take place in a parallel universe, making its events distinct from the series’ continuity. It appears to occur after the androids awaken but before Cell reaches his perfect form. This film marks the first appearance of Future Trunks in a movie and the first time three Super Saiyans battle the same villain together.

The Return of Cooler (1992)

New Namek faces a dire threat after colliding with a star-like entity that drains the planet’s energy. Dende calls upon Goku to save his people, leading the Z Fighters to confront the menace and rescue the Namekians. They discover that the star is connected to Meta-Cooler, a robotic upgrade of Cooler, the villain from the previous movie. Goku and Vegeta must combine their Super Saiyan powers to thwart Meta-Cooler and prevent the planet’s destruction. “The Return of Cooler” was released between episodes 130 and 131, not long before Androids 17 and 18 make their appearance. Despite this, context clues suggest that the movie takes place after the Cell Games were announced but before they occur. It’s an improvement over the original Cooler movie, offering a stronger storyline and more captivating action.

Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan (1993)

In “Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan,” Vegeta is summoned by a group of surviving Saiyans to lead a new Planet Vegeta. The Z Fighters journey to this new planet, only to discover a sinister plot by Paragus to use his ultra-powerful son, Broly, to conquer the universe. Broly poses an immense challenge to the Z Fighters, with power so overwhelming that it leaves even Prince Vegeta in awe. “Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan” was released between episodes 176 and 177, during the Cell Games, and the events appear to take place shortly before the start of the games. Broly’s character has become an iconic figure within the Dragon Ball universe, and this film is one of the most well-known in the series.

Bojack Unbound (1993)

In “Bojack Unbound,” the Z Fighters participate in an intergalactic martial arts tournament that takes a deadly turn when a group of mercenaries disrupts the proceedings. Bojack, an ancient and powerful villain, is set free, and he proclaims his intention to conquer the universe after being released following the explosion of Cell on King Kai’s planet. With Goku in the afterlife, Gohan is tasked with taking down this new threat. The movie was released between episodes 192 and 193, shortly after the conclusion of the Cell Games. It fits well into the timeline, even though Future Trunks returns with long hair. “Bojack Unbound” showcases young Gohan’s power and gives other Z Fighters a chance to shine.

Broly – Second Coming (1994)

“Broly – Second Coming” continues the story of the Legendary Super Saiyan, Broly. After surviving the events of the previous film, Broly is cloned by a mad scientist, resulting in a deformed creature known as Bio-Broly. It falls upon Trunks, Goten, and Android 18 to prevent Bio-Broly from escaping the lab and threatening all life on Earth. The movie was released between episodes 232 and 233, during the Buu Saga, although it occurs after the World Martial Arts Tournament while the other Z Fighters are contending with Buu. This film is the first to feature Goten and Trunks as central heroes, and it explores their adventures in a slightly weaker installment of the Broly saga.

Fusion Reborn (1995)

Our journey begins with “Fusion Reborn,” a movie that immerses us in the vibrant world of Dragon Ball. Goku, the beloved Saiyan warrior, finds himself in the Other World, participating in a martial arts tournament, one of his favorite pastimes. A gathering of fighters from across the galaxy creates an exciting atmosphere. However, things take a chaotic turn when an employee of King Yemma undergoes a transformation, becoming a powerful, multidimensional being. This unexpected metamorphosis shatters the barriers between different realities, pushing Goku to his limits.

As the boundaries between dimensions crumble, Goku faces a challenge like never before. To secure victory, he must join forces with his arch-rival, Vegeta, in an act of fusion. This unique fusion dance between Goku and Vegeta leads to the birth of Gogeta, a character whose significance would become apparent in the future of the Dragon Ball franchise.

“Fusion Reborn” was released during the transition between episodes 258 and 259 of the Dragon Ball Z series. This placement within the timeline makes it challenging to pinpoint precisely when these events occur. Nonetheless, it appears to unfold just before the emergence of Super Buu. One of the film’s most significant contributions is the introduction of Gogeta, a fusion of Goku and Vegeta, who would later reappear in “Dragon Ball Super: Broly.”

Wrath of the Dragon (1995)

In “Wrath of the Dragon,” the Dragon Balls once again play a pivotal role in setting the stage for a captivating storyline. An elderly man deceives Gohan into using the Dragon Balls, inadvertently releasing a mysterious hero from a music box. However, this hero’s release is accompanied by a looming threat that poses a significant danger to Earth. To confront this formidable menace and save the planet, every Saiyan on Earth must unite their strength and cunning.

Released between episodes 270 and 271 of the Dragon Ball Z series, “Wrath of the Dragon” aligns with the ongoing battle against Buu. However, the film’s events transpire after Buu’s defeat, creating continuity challenges such as Shenron granting only one wish. While the movie provides an enjoyable side adventure, it somewhat dilutes the epic conclusion achieved at the end of the TV series, which had enjoyed a long and illustrious run.

Battle of Gods (2013)

“Battle of Gods” marks a significant milestone in the Dragon Ball universe, as it represents the first movie officially recognized as part of the franchise’s canon. This epic return to the big screen introduces a colossal threat to Earth in the form of Beerus, the God of Destruction. Beerus is on a quest to find his new nemesis, a Super Saiyan God. As news of Beerus’s unmatched power reaches Goku, he cannot resist the challenge, setting the stage for an extraordinary showdown between the Saiyan warrior and the divine deity.

The film serves as a sequel to the original Dragon Ball TV series, nearly two decades after the series’ conclusion. “Battle of Gods” became the most successful theatrical release in the Dragon Ball movie franchise, heralding a resurgence in popularity that continues to the present day. These events were later adapted into the first season of “Dragon Ball Super,” where the story was significantly expanded, adding depth to the narrative.

Resurrection ‘F’ (2015)

“Resurrection ‘F’” follows the monumental success of “Battle of Gods” and reintroduces Frieza, one of the original major threats in the Dragon Ball Z series. Frieza is resurrected and harbors a burning desire for revenge after his previous defeat. This time, Goku and his friends have grown significantly in strength. Frieza must surpass his former power by unlocking a new, formidable transformation to match Goku’s might. The question lingers: does Frieza’s newfound golden transformation measure up to Goku’s new heights?

Similar to “Battle of Gods,” “Resurrection ‘F’” is considered part of the main story continuity upon its release, directly continuing the narrative established in the previous film. The movie achieved critical acclaim and resonated with fans, strengthening its place in the Dragon Ball lore. Furthermore, the film served as the foundation for an expanded story arc in “Dragon Ball Super,” exploring these events in more detail across multiple seasons.

Broly

Following a robust run of 131 episodes, “Dragon Ball Super” shifted its focus to the movie format with “Dragon Ball Super: Broly.” This film resurrects the fan-favorite Legendary Super Saiyan, Broly, and firmly establishes his story within the Dragon Ball canon. Frieza, Goku’s sworn enemy, recruits Broly and his father, Paragus, in his relentless pursuit to defeat Goku.

“Broly” not only garnered immense popularity upon its theatrical release but also showcased some of the most stunning animation ever seen in the Dragon Ball series. The movie also breathed new life into Gogeta, the fusion dance form of Goku and Vegeta introduced in “Fusion Reborn,” making him an integral part of the Dragon Ball canon. In essence, “Broly” delivered the fan service and epic battles that long-time viewers had come to expect from the Dragon Ball movie experience.

Super Hero (2022)

The Dragon Ball Super saga continues with “Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero.” This movie takes place in the Dragon Ball Super timeline, ideally watched after the three previous films, but it can also be enjoyed as a standalone experience. The story unfolds some time after the events of “Broly,” with the legendary Super Saiyan training under Whis alongside Goku and Vegeta. In a departure from the norm, the film’s primary focus shifts away from the two main protagonists, placing the spotlight on other Z fighters and Gohan’s daughter, Pan. Together, they face a new threat posed by androids from the reformed Red Ribbon Army, a nod to the series’ rich history.

One of the movie’s notable aspects is the return of Cell, a beloved villain from “Dragon Ball Z” who serves as Gohan’s arch-rival. “Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero” continues the tradition of expanding the Dragon Ball universe through engaging storytelling and character development.

In conclusion, Dragon Ball movies have consistently added depth and excitement to the already rich Dragon Ball universe. These films offer fresh perspectives, introduce memorable characters, and explore intriguing plotlines, contributing to the enduring appeal of the franchise. As the Dragon Ball saga continues to evolve, fans can look forward to more thrilling adventures and new horizons in this beloved anime and manga world.