Dragon Ball GT: The Lost Episodes

Dragon Ball is lighthearted adventure; Dragon Ball Z is the flag-bearer of long-running, power-up-type fighting shows; and Dragon Ball GT is the first Dragon Ball series not based on manga by Toriyama Akira. Perhaps for that reason, the series took a long time to find its feet both theme-wise and with viewers, resulting in Funimation's decision to release Dragon Ball GT on U.S. television with the first 16-episode storyline entirely omitted (replaced with a single cut-together explanatory episode). Unlike later narrative arcs, these “lost episodes” are tonally reminiscent of the original goofy Dragon Ball series, beginning with super-strong series hero Goku being turned into a young child thanks to an accidental wish made with the powerful Black Star Dragon Balls. Goku ventures out into the galaxy with young granddaughter Pan and friend Trunks, visiting planet after planet, while fighting to recover seven lost Dragon Balls, which will not only return him to his adult state, but also save the Earth from being destroyed. This particular saga is not the best starting point for those unfamiliar with the Dragon Ball franchise, and even DB fans may find these episodes to be a frustrating slog. Rated 13-up for cartoon violence and minor nudity, DVD extras on these dual-language discs include character profiles and text-less songs. Optional for all but hardcore fans. Aud: P. (L. Martincik)