I am a pretty casual DragonBall Z fan. I watched some of the original series, some of GT and all of Kai. I do not claim to be an expert on anything DragonBall related. That being said, I am still a fan. Now, going into this film I wasn't exactly excited. I figured, at best, this would be a decent time at the cinema. Let me just say that this was one of my best experiences at a movie theater in a long time. First, lets talk about the story
Story
Battle of Gods takes place a few years after the events of DBZ (inculding the feature "Yo! Son Goku and Friends Return) Where Bulma is having her birthday, all of the main DBZ characters are present. While this is going on, an ancient god known as Lord Beerus, is awakening. After sleeping 39 years, he wishes to find his true rival known only as the "Super Sayian God". He goes to earth hoping to find this legendary warrior but no one knows what he is talking about. This news annoys him and he threatens to destroy the planet (because he's a god and he can do whatever he wants). Now it is up to Goku to stop this god of destruction from destroying the Earth. As far as DBZ stories go, this one isn't half bad. It reminds me of the Freeza saga where the super sayain was nothing but an urban legend. We have that same effect here as the characters don't even know what a Super Sayain God is or if it's even possible to become one. The story also manages to focus on what is important and feels almost like an homage to original DragonBall. It's simple but it works very well. At no point did I feel like the movie was going on too long, or did I wonder why certian things were happening. The story knows when to be funny, and when to be serious. Which is very present with it's many characters.
Characters and Acting
The orignal cast returns for this film and it feels like they never left. If you have a favorite character from the series (assuming they aren't dead) you will most likely see them here. For the most part every character gets something to do. I say for the most part because I do feel that certain characters like Krillin, Piccolo, and somewhat Gohan, are pushed aside so that we can focus more on a subplot featuring Emperor Pilaf. Granted, this subplot about Pilaf trying to once again steal the dragon balls is humorous, I do wish that we got forcus on other characters instead. Its not a major problem, more of just a nitpick. The characters we do get to spend time with are well done. Goku is his heroic self with a dream of becoming the strongest there is. Vegeta is still the egotisitcal jerk we knew, but has grown to show a more human side. Sean Schemmel and Chris Sabat bring their 'A' game as usual as their respected characters. And of course the new character, Lord Beerus, is a blast to watch on screen. In many ways, this new character is almost just like Goku. He's goofy, he's always eating, and he just wants to find someone that can truely match his strength. It's almost like seeing Goku if he weren't raised with good morals. Like an evil Superman. For what is basically a reunion movie this was a smart move on Toriyama's part. What better way to celebrate Goku and DBZ than to have him go up against someone just like him. All this plays off so well and a lot can be credited to the voice acting. Everyone acting in this film has this energy about them. Like they are really excited to be back playing these parts. This movie is a perfect come back for the series and lets fans of DBZ know that Toriyama and Toei animation have not forgot about us.
FINAL VERDICT
If you have the chance to see this film please do so. It's a fun ride filled with comedy, action, and heart. It deserves to be seen on the big screen with others who also love DBZ. I highly recommend it.
Thanks for reading guys and take care!