Synopsis
Directed by Tadayoshi Yamamuro, Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ is a Japanese animated action fantasy film produced in 2015. Akira Toriyama, the creator of the Dragon Ball franchise, provided the story, screenplay, and character designs. Toriyama also created the Dragon Ball Z saga. This film is a sequel to the 2013 film, Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods, and continues the story under the new Dragon Ball Super timeline.
This film narrative is about the return of one of the most iconic Dragon Ball universe characters, Frieza. After being defeated and left to die, Frieza is resurrected by the loyal remaining members of his army who believe that he is strong enough to reclaim the army’s lost glory. However, he also sets in action events that threaten the fragile peace of Earth and the universe.
Frieza is revived with the mystical Dragon Balls. When he returns, he learns that Goku and Vegeta, the characters he once thought of being more powerful than him, now have a tremendous amount of strength. Driven by revenge, Frieza commits himself to training to achieve the transformation he believes will make him stronger than ever.
In the meantime, Goku and Vegeta are training with Whis, beerus’ angelic mentor and attendant, on a faraway planet. Their training is centered on the balance between physical strength and mental discipline, equanimity, and control, all essential in order to attain higher levels of strength.
The Z Fighters including Piccolo, Tien, Krillin, Master Roshi, and Gohan defend the planet in the absense of Goku and Vegeta. They demonstrate collaboration, determination, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds, as they are attacked by Frieza and his soldiers who have come to Earth with an army.
Goku and Vegeta face Frieza, and the final act of this film centers on their philosophical and intense duel. They clash on all levels, and Goku’s spirited discipline counters Frieza’s arrogant obsession and ambition. On the other hand, Vegeta’s calm confidence showcases his remarkable evolution since his rival days.
The mark of this movie is the unwavering spirit of humility, collaboration, and perseverance in the face of all reverting foes.
Main Characters and Voice Cast
Goku (voiced by Masako Nozawa in Japanese / Sean Schemmel in English)
Goku still embodies the spirit and kindness of a hero in the Dragon Ball universe. His unrelenting desire to grow and challenge himself results in achieving a new transformation for this film: Super Saiyan Blue, a hybrid form of Super Saiyan and divine energy, where he attains remarkable new powers.
Vegeta (voiced by Ryo Horikawa / Christopher Sabat)
Vegeta’s growth in this film is remarkable. His transition from being a proud and lonely character to training decisively in a pair with Goku is a large step for him. His attitude is changing in a positive way, and now he will truly be a noble, reliable defender and a protector will grow more with each iteration.
Frieza (voiced by Ryusei Nakao / Chris Ayres)
Frieza is still the same charming and calculating villain he has always been. The thriller ingredient is the excitement of his powerful resurrection with a new transformation. The story has Goku and Vegeta derive intellect in battle from their powerful attitude, a contrast to the flamboyant way he engages in battle, showcasing the death of arrogance as the antagonist.
Whis and Beerus
Whis (voiced by Masakazu Morita / Ian Sinclair) remains serene, sagacious, and unexpectedly humorous. As a mentor figure, he helps Goku and Vegeta become more self-aware. Beerus (voiced by Koichi Yamadera / Jason Douglas) is a strong god, and his role in the story is predominantly neutral, albeit unpredictable. Together, they provide additional nuance and comedy.
Supporting Fighters
With Goku and Vegeta away, Gohan, Piccolo, Krillin, Tien, and Master Roshi also defend the Earth. Their collective efforts and resolve in the face of difficulties underscore the significance of collaboration and teamwork.
Themes and Messages
1. Growth Through Training
The film’s narrative articulates the idea that growth is an enduring pursuit. Goku and Vegeta’s efforts to better themselves come from a selfless desire to protect others. They learn from Whis that an unbridled force is inadequate; one must also possess calmness, self-awareness, and discipline.
2. Redemption and Self-Control
The evolution of Vegeta’s character is a testament to the development he has undergone since his days being a rival and antagonist. His newfound sense of purpose in the fight speaks volumes about the pride he has surrendered. The will to change and improve remains a powerful testament that revisions one’s character.
- The Perils of Hubris
Frieza’s overconfidence, rather than weakness, causes the most significant problems in the movie. His emotions run wild, and his need for revenge causes him to lose control, proving another valuable lesson: the importance of humility.
- Coordination And Confidence
Earth’s defenders manage to stall Frieza and his forces by working in unison, and, even in the absence of the most powerful fighters, the defenders show that, through teamwork and careful planning, the line can be held. This underscores the importance of trust and working in unison.
- The Composite of Wisdom and Equanimity
The character Whis illustrates the principle of emotional control and balance. His instruction to Goku and Vegeta discloses the greater truth that real power arises only when the mind and body function in unison.
The Use of Animation and Visual Aesthetics
For the Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ movie, cutting edge digital animation was integrated with traditional 2D artwork. The integrated use of animation enhances the energetic and colorful visuals. The fluidity of action and a well defined sequence are exemplified in the dynamic scenes as each character’s movements are pronounced and expressive.
The climactic fight sequence is captivating, animated with artistry, vibrant colors, blinking auras, and dynamic martial arts choreography. The scene depicting the transformation into Super Saiyan Blue is captivating too, offering a new take on the series classic power-ups.
The new character designs still maintain the look of traditional Dragon Ball which is a featured stylization, but incorporated modern enhancements which is a screen friendly design.
Music and Sound
Norihito Sumitomo’s score is consistent with a variety of orchestral and electronic themes. The electronic music is a nice touch that complements the orchestral score which builds the movie’s emotional highs and lows.
The emotional tones of the various scenes, whether it was light-hearted, humorous, serious, or intense, were also captured perfectly in the voice acting and the sound effects.
Reception and IMDb Rating
Fans and critics alike praised Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’, which is evident in the movie’s IMDb score of 7.2/10. This is a reflection of the movie’s well-told story, visual nostalgia and emotional impact.
Reception Highlights
Fans expressed the revival of a classic villain with new designs and power in the return of Frieza.
Vegeta’s character development, especially the new dynamics with Goku, was also warmly received.
Spectacle and Animation: The visuals and battles in this film surpassed any other film in the entire franchise.
The film also became a commercial success and was one of the highest grossing anime films during its time.
Conclusion
The film’s pacing and emotional weight makes Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ an extraordinary film in the entire Dragon Ball franchise. It captures and builds on fan favorite characters with new forms and transformations while also introducing new characters. The film deeply explores themes of growth, humility, and unity.
The film offers everything from action to comedy to heart and wisdom in a beautifully done moving picture. It explores the true meaning of a hero and strength: to protect, to grow, and to fight one’s past. The film is a testament to the entire franchise and a joy to behold.
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