Dragon Ball Z: The Return of Cooler
Synopsis — from MyAnimeList
A mysterious entity known as the "Big Gete Star" clings onto planet New Namek to absorb its energy, putting all Namekians in grave danger. Dende, Earth's new guardian, learns about the prevailing situation in his homeland and quickly requests Gokuu Son and his friends for help. Upon arrival in New Namek, they discover that the Namekians are held captive by powerful robots, whose leader turns out to be Cooler. He explains that the advanced technology of the Big Gete Star saved him from what otherwise would have been certain death. Alongside his mechanical army, Cooler proceeds to attack Gokuu and his friends to get rid of them once and for all.
Audience Consensus
Audience opinion is quite divided, with strong praise for the action sequences and Vegeta's significant role, but equally strong condemnation of the nonsensical plot and weak writing. While some appreciate the spectacle and character moments, many find the narrative flaws too significant to overlook.
Strengths
- Vegeta's debut in a movie and his eventual teamwork with Goku is a highlight for many.
- The action sequences and fights are generally well-animated and exciting, especially the concept of fighting a massive army of robots.
- The movie offers a good use of the secondary cast (Piccolo, Gohan, Krillin) engaging with Cooler's robotic guards.
- Cooler's regenerative abilities and the unique threat posed by the Big Gete Star are interesting concepts.
- The inclusion of comedic relief from minor characters like Master Roshi and Yajirobe is appreciated by some.
Weaknesses
- The plot and the explanation for Cooler's survival and return via the Big Gete Star are widely criticized as nonsensical, illogical, and poorly written.
- Cooler's characterization is seen as a weak rehash of Frieza with little independent personality.
- The ending is described as rushed, anti-climactic, and unsatisfying.
- The animation and still frames are criticized in some areas, and the music score is generally considered weak.
- The movie does not fit into the main series continuity, with plot holes like Vegeta's presence and Instant Transmission usage.