8.125 minSeason 1 • Episode 153
LatestGoku and Chichi must travel to Mt. Gogyo in a last ditch effort to save her father, the Gyumao, from the deadly magical flames, which threaten to consume his kingdom. Before Goku can complete his quest, he must fan the flames of Fate and hope he does not get burned!
Young Goku sets off on a quest with his teenage friend Bulma to find the seven Dragon Balls, which grant whoever possesses them a single wish.
Writing
Toriyama's gag manga roots keep it weird and wonderful.
Practical Effects
Hand-drawn fight choreography that Z forgot existed.
Acting
Masako Nozawa's Goku defined shounen voice acting forever.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Toriyama originally planned to end the series after the first tournament arc. The Dragon Balls were literally supposed to be the end.
Goku's character fuses Sun Wukong from Journey to the West with Superman tropes, creating the shounen protagonist template that still dominates global animation.
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