Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies (1986) – The First Dragon Ball Movie

Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies (1986) – The First Dragon Ball Movie

Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies (ドラゴンボール 神龍の伝説, or Dragon Ball: Shenron no Densetsu) premiered on December 20, 1986, marking the very first feature-length movie in the Dragon Ball franchise. A reimagining of the manga’s original story arc, the film introduces fans to the world of Goku, Bulma, and the magical Dragon Balls, while presenting an original antagonist and storyline. This article dives into the plot, characters, and legacy of this classic 1986 movie.

Overview

• Japanese Title: ドラゴンボール 神龍の伝説 (Dragon Ball: Shenron no Densetsu)
• Release Date: December 20, 1986
• Runtime: 50 minutes
• Director: Daisuke Nishio
• Studio: Toei Animation
• Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy

The movie was released as part of the Toei Manga Matsuri (Toei Animation Festival), which showcased animated adaptations of popular manga series. As the first Dragon Ball movie, Curse of the Blood Rubies laid the foundation for future films while introducing new elements to Toriyama’s beloved series.

Plot Summary

The Blood Rubies Curse

The story revolves around King Gurumes, a once-kind ruler cursed by the Blood Rubies, mystical gems buried beneath his kingdom. Greed consumes Gurumes, transforming him into a monstrous being. As his land withers, Gurumes learns of the Dragon Balls and plans to use them to rid himself of the curse.

Goku’s Journey Begins

In the mountains, a young boy named Goku lives alone, unaware of his Saiyan heritage. His peaceful life changes when he meets Bulma, a teenage inventor searching for the seven Dragon Balls. Together, they set out on an adventure to gather the Dragon Balls before Gurumes can exploit them.

Allies and Adventures

On their journey, Goku and Bulma encounter:

• Oolong, a shape-shifting pig who reluctantly joins their quest.
• Yamcha and Puar, desert bandits who initially oppose them but later become allies.
• Master Roshi, the eccentric martial artist who gifts Goku his iconic Flying Nimbus and teaches him the Kamehameha technique.

The Final Battle

The climax takes place in Gurumes’ kingdom, where Goku and his friends confront Bongo and Pasta, Gurumes’ loyal henchmen. With teamwork and courage, they summon Shenron, using the Dragon Balls to end the curse and restore peace to the land.

Original Characters Introduced

1. King Gurumes
   • The main antagonist, cursed by the Blood Rubies.
   • Represents the destructive nature of greed and unchecked desire.
2. Pansy
   • A young girl from Gurumes’ kingdom who seeks Goku’s help.
   • Her bravery and hope drive the group’s mission to stop Gurumes.
3. Bongo and Pasta
   • Gurumes’ henchmen who serve as the primary obstacles for Goku and his team.

Differences from the Manga

1. Unique Villains

The movie replaces Emperor Pilaf, the antagonist of the manga’s first arc, with King Gurumes.

2. Condensed Story

The film simplifies the narrative, condensing several chapters of the manga into a 50-minute runtime.

3. Standalone Format

While it introduces key characters, the movie is a self-contained story, making it accessible to newcomers unfamiliar with the manga or anime.

Themes and Messages

1. Greed and Redemption

The Blood Rubies’ curse symbolizes the destructive power of greed. Gurumes’ eventual redemption reflects the series’ optimistic belief in second chances.

2. Friendship and Teamwork

Goku’s bond with Bulma and the rest of the group highlights the importance of unity in overcoming challenges.

3. Adventure and Discovery

The journey to find the Dragon Balls embodies the spirit of exploration, introducing viewers to the fantastical world of Dragon Ball.

Reception and Legacy

1. Milestone for the Franchise

As the first movie in the Dragon Ball franchise, Curse of the Blood Rubies marked the beginning of a long tradition of cinematic adaptations.

2. Nostalgia for Fans

For many fans, the 1986 movie serves as a nostalgic introduction to the Dragon Ball universe.

3. Influence on Future Films

The film’s success inspired numerous sequels, including Dragon Ball: Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle (1987) and Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone (1989).

Where to Watch

Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies is available on home media formats such as DVD and Blu-ray. It’s also included in box sets that compile early Dragon Ball movies, making it easily accessible to both new fans and longtime enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies (1986) is a landmark in the franchise’s history. Its unique storyline, compelling characters, and blend of humor and action capture the essence of Dragon Ball. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, this movie is a must-watch for anyone looking to experience the origins of Goku’s legendary journey. With its timeless themes and iconic moments, Curse of the Blood Rubies remains a beloved chapter in the Dragon Ball saga.

ライト

鳥山明さんの大ファン

鳥山明さんの作品をこよなく愛するドラゴンボールが好きな漫画オタクです。世の中のアニメ全般が好きで、クリエイターの皆様を応援しています。