Dragonball: Evolution 2009

Based on The King Piccolo Saga from Dragonball, also referred to as the Piccolo Daimaoh Saga, this segment is a continuation of the anime series that takes place after the Tien Shinhan Saga and before the Piccolo Junior Saga. The storyline features intense battles between Goku and King Piccolo’s sons, Goku’s initial meeting with the formidable Samurai warrior, Yajirobe, and his quest to locate the mystical Holy Water. This thrilling adventure culminates in an epic confrontation with the youthful King Piccolo, leading to the emergence of Piccolo Junior. Other notable characters include Yamcha and Bulma, although fan favorites like Bwar, Oolong, and even Krillin are notably absent. It is speculated that Ox King and his daughter Chi-Chi make appearances.

Produced in tandem with the legendary Hong Kong filmmaker Stephen Chow (Kung Fu Hustle), Dragonball Evolution emerges as a modestly entertaining live-action adaptation of the beloved manga and anime series. Under the direction of James Wong, the film intertwines the series’ fantasy elements with a somewhat mediocre storyline centered around Goku, portrayed by Justin Chatwin, a typical teenager who balances his infatuation for classmate Chi-Chi (Jamie Chung) with a pressing quest: an intergalactic race to collect the omnipotent Dragon Balls from the nefarious warlord Piccolo, played by James Marsters.

Guided by Master Roshi, portrayed by Chow Yun-Fat, who sheds his stoic demeanor for a more flamboyant performance, Goku hones his martial arts prowess to confront Piccolo and safeguard the Earth. While the film showcases an abundance of martial arts action that might captivate younger audiences, seasoned fans of the franchise may find the clichéd dialogue and lethargic pacing—especially during action sequences—disappointing. The CGI effects, although ambitious in replicating the vibrant aesthetics of the original material, fall short in delivering the expected visual spectacle. Nonetheless, the film’s cast, particularly James Marsters and Chow Yun-Fat, bring their charisma to the forefront, striving to enliven the narrative despite its limitations.