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Movies / On DVD / Dragonball: Evolution
Dragonball: Evolution

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Dragonball: Evolution (2009)

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33 %
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Reviews Counted:3

Fresh:1

Rotten:2

Average Rating:3.7/10

Consensus: Executed with little panache or invention, Dragonball Evolution lacks the magic that made the books upon which it was based a cult sensation.

Rated: PG [See Full Rating] for intense sequences of action/violence and brief mild language.

Runtime: 85 mins

Genre: Action/Adventure

Theatrical Release:08-04-2009

Synopsis: Based on the renowned Japanese manga/anime franchise, the live-action DRAGONBALL EVOLUTION follows the adventures of young Goku (Justin Chatwin of WAR OF THE WORLDS), who is drawn into the legacy... Based on the renowned Japanese manga/anime franchise, the live-action DRAGONBALL EVOLUTION follows the adventures of young Goku (Justin Chatwin of WAR OF THE WORLDS), who is drawn into the legacy of the mystical spheres of the title, and trains to become a powerful warrior with the aid of the wise but lewd Master Roshi (Chow Yun-Fat) and the weapons-loving Bulma (Emmy Rossum), among others. This small band of fighters must face off against the evil warlord Piccolo (James Marsters) and his minions to avert the end of the world. The first Hollywood feature-film adaptation of the venerable DRAGONBALL series, EVOLUTION is helmed by director James Wong (FINAL DESTINATION, THE ONE) with a nod to the playful work of coproducer Stephen Chow (KUNG FU HUSTLE). A movie where visual effects and plot easily eclipse the acting and script, EVOLUTION will appeal to those seeking a combat-heavy spectacle, though the presence of Yun Fat, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER alum Marsters, and former reality-TV star Jamie Chung help to elevate the proceedings. Although diehard fans may not be pleased with the film, which misses peak DRAGONBALL popularity by about 15 years, EVOLUTION, like its fellow 2009 movie STREET FIGHTER: THE LEGEND OF CHUN-LI, serves as fine entertainment for ardent martial-arts/video-game enthusiasts and tween boys. [More]

Starring: Justin Chatwin, Emmy Rossum, Chow Yun Fat, James Marsters

Starring: Justin Chatwin, Emmy Rossum, Chow Yun Fat, James Marsters, Jamie Chung, Joon Park, Eriko, Randall Duk Kim, Ernie Hudson

Director: James Wong

Director: James Wong
Screenwriter: James Wong
Producer: Stephen Chow
Composer: Brian Tyler
Studio: 20th Century Fox

[See More Credits]

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  • Jamie Chung SDCC 08
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    International Trailer
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    Goku Trains
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    My Car!
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  • Did You Do That?
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    You Are The Key
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    Dragonball Energy
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    I Will Have The Dragonball
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  • Justin Chatwin and Emmy Rossum Interview
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    Jamie Chung and James Marsters Interview
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Reviews for Dragonball: Evolution

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1 - 3 (sorted by date; UK critics are listed first)
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Making no effort to be original, exciting, witty or even vaguely plausible, it may pass the time as sparkly fodder for 12-year-old boys with plenty of sugar in their bloodstream.

Full Review Source: Time Out | comment Comment
04/09/09
David Jenkins
David Jenkins
Time Out
Top Critic Icon Top Critic

Dragonball Evolution is an example of Hollywood at its most calculating and cynical. Utter drivel.

Full Review Source: Times [UK] | comment Comment
04/09/09
Wendy Ide
Wendy Ide
Times [UK]
Top Critic Icon Top Critic

Dragonball Evolution doesn't take itself too seriously, but avoids campiness.

Full Review Source: Variety | comment 40 Comments
03/26/09
Russell Edwards
Russell Edwards
Variety
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1 - 3 (sorted by date; UK critics are listed first)
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Latest News for Dragonball: Evolution

April 10, 2009: Weekly Ketchup: Dragonball, Hangover sequels announced
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April 08, 2009: Jamie Chung Stands Up for Dragonball Evolution Opens in new window
For months, any bit of news about "Dragonball Evolution" has been greeted with snorts of derision from fans of the anime series -- but Jamie Chung, who plays Chi Chi in the... More...

April 07, 2009: Five Favourite Films with James Marsters
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