Where to start withDragon Ball
9 versions · originally a series, 1986
Themes: Finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, The Power of Friendship, Self-Improvement, Quest for Power, Overcoming Obstacles.
Start with Dragon Ball Z (1989) — the series. Dragon Ball exists in 9 versions across media, beginning as a series in 1986; each is ranked below by what it does best.
Dragon Ball has more than one version — here's where most fans start, and what each offers.
✦ Most fans start here
Dragon Ball Z (1989)
1990 film
Dragon Ball Z: The World's Strongest
Daisuke Nishio · Film · 1990
1990 film, 1990.
1995 film
Dragon Ball Z: Wrath of the Dragon
Mitsuo Hashimoto · Film · 1995
1995 film, 1995.
1995 film
Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn
Shigeyasu Yamauchi · Film · 1995
1995 film, 1995.
2013 film
Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods
Masahiro Hosoda · Film · 2013
2013 film, 2013.
Common questions
What order should I watch the Dragon Ball Z movies in?
The Dragon Ball Z films are standalone stories rather than a linear sequence. You can watch titles like Dead Zone, The World's Strongest, Lord Slug, Fusion Reborn, and Wrath of the Dragon in any order, as they do not follow the chronological timeline of the main Dragon Ball Z television series.
Is Dragon Ball Z Kai a remake of the original series?
Dragon Ball Z Kai is a remastered version of the 1989 Dragon Ball Z television series. It provides a condensed experience by removing filler content and updating the visuals for a modern audience, while maintaining the core narrative established in the original broadcast.
How long is the original Dragon Ball television series?
The original Dragon Ball television series premiered in 1986. It serves as the starting point for the franchise, introducing the world and characters that later appear in sequels like Dragon Ball Z and the various feature films, including Battle of Gods.
Should I watch Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods after finishing Dragon Ball Z?
Yes, Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods is a feature film released in 2013 that follows the events of the Dragon Ball Z television series. It expands the story beyond the conclusion of the 1989 show and introduces new elements to the established universe.