Dragon Ball (Japan 1986)

Rating: ***

Divided into 12 installments.

I really enjoyed this light-hearted anime romp that tells the tale of a group of adventurers who are searching for the thirteen legendary dragon balls. Whoever possesses the balls can summon the eternal dragon to have a single wish fulfilled. The characters are wonderful and the action pieces are kinetic and exciting. The animation is good and the character designs are cute (Bulma is a babe and the evil Emperor Pilaf is a scream). The American release translates well (apart from nudity and fan service issues) and the voice talent is top notch. Great stuff.