Dragon Ball Z: Bardock - The Father of Goku

Release Date 1990-10-17

Runtime 48 minutes

Genres Animation, Action, Science Fiction, Drama, Fantasy,

Status Released

Overview

Bardock, Son Goku's father, is a low-ranking Saiyan soldier who was given the power to see into the future by the last remaining alien on a planet he just destroyed. He witnesses the destruction of his race and must now do his best to stop Frieza's impending massacre.

Budget $0

Revenue $0

Vote Average 7.56/10

Vote Count 738

Popularity 4.3847

Original Language ja

Backdrop

What makes this movie Worth Watching

Released during the height of Dragon Ball Z's popularity, the Bardock special served as a way to explore the Saiyan past, which was only hinted at in the main series. It offers a darker, more mature tone compared to many of the series' more action-oriented arcs, focusing on themes of defiance against overwhelming power and the burden of prophecy.

Bardock's character development: Witnessing his transformation from a Saiyan soldier following orders to a defiant warrior fighting for his race's survival is compelling.
The tragic narrative: The story provides a poignant backstory to Goku's origin and highlights the Saiyans' brutal nature and their impending doom, creating a sense of loss and urgency.
Unique art style and animation: The movie features a distinct visual style compared to the main series, especially noticeable in the battle sequences and planet Vegeta's destruction.
Adds depth to the Dragon Ball Z universe: Expands on the Saiyan race's history and provides context for their motivations, ultimately enriching the overall Dragon Ball Z narrative.

Fun Facts

Bardock's appearance is based on Tadayoshi Yamamuro, the animation supervisor for the special.
The movie was originally released as a two-part special on Japanese television.
Frieza's fear of Super Saiyans is heavily implied to stem from his interaction with Bardock and the vision Bardock gave him.