Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies – The Ultimate Guide Every Fan Must Read
A Powerful Blast From the Past That Still Captivates Dragon Ball Fans
Long before epic battles against Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu dominated screens worldwide, there was a small adventure that introduced many viewers to the magical charm of the Dragon Ball universe. Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies remains one of the most nostalgic and fascinating entries in the franchise.
Released as the first Dragon Ball movie, this film reimagines the earliest chapters of Goku’s journey while adding its own unique twists. Even decades later, fans continue searching for answers about its canon status, watch order, streaming availability, and English dub releases.
If you’re curious whether this classic movie is worth watching in 2026, this complete guide has everything you need to know.
What Is Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies?
Released in 1986, Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies was the first theatrical movie based on Akira Toriyama’s legendary Dragon Ball series.
Rather than directly adapting the manga, the film creates an alternate retelling of Goku’s first adventure.
The movie follows:
- Young Goku
- Bulma
- Oolong
- Yamcha
- Puar
as they search for the Dragon Balls while facing a new villain known as King Gurumes.
The story combines familiar elements from the original anime with an entirely new conflict centered around the mysterious Blood Rubies.
Why Fans Still Love This Hidden Dragon Ball Gem
The Ultimate Nostalgia Experience
Many Dragon Ball fans appreciate the movie because it captures the innocence and adventure-focused tone of early Dragon Ball.
Unlike later arcs filled with planet-destroying battles, this film focuses on:
- Exploration
- Humor
- Friendship
- Adventure
- Fantasy elements
A Rare Look at Classic Dragon Ball
As a result, many never experience the original adventurous spirit that made the franchise famous.
New fans often begin with Dragon Ball Z or Dragon Ball Super.
This movie serves as a perfect reminder of those roots.
The Shocking Story Behind the Blood Rubies
The Powerful Curse That Drives the Plot
King Gurumes was once a generous ruler.
However, after consuming Blood Rubies discovered beneath his kingdom, he transforms into a monstrous tyrant consumed by hunger and greed.
This curse becomes the central conflict of the movie.
The Blood Rubies symbolize:
- Corruption
- Greed
- Power obsession
Themes that remain surprisingly relevant today.
Must-Know Main Characters and Their Roles
Goku
The cheerful young hero whose innocence and courage drive the story forward.
Bulma
The brilliant inventor searching for the Dragon Balls.
Yamcha
Initially an enemy but eventually becomes a valuable ally.
Oolong
Provides comic relief throughout the adventure.
Puar
Yamcha’s loyal companion with transformation abilities.
King Gurumes
The movie-exclusive villain whose tragic downfall fuels the narrative.
Is Dragon Ball Curse of the Blood Rubies Canon?
The Truth Most Fans Get Wrong
One of the most searched questions is:
“Is Dragon Ball Curse of the Blood Rubies canon?”
The short answer is:
No.
The movie is generally considered non-canon.
Why It Is Not Canon
- It changes major events from the original manga.
- Character introductions happen differently.
- Timeline continuity does not align with the anime.
- The villain does not exist in the main storyline.
However, non-canon does not mean unimportant.
Many fans view it as an entertaining alternate version of Goku’s first adventure.
When Should You Watch Dragon Ball Curse of the Blood Rubies?
The Best Watch Order Revealed
If you’re watching the franchise for the first time, the ideal placement is:
Recommended Watch Order
- Dragon Ball Episodes 1–13
- Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies
- Continue Dragon Ball series
Because the movie retells early events, watching it after becoming familiar with the main characters provides the best experience.
Where Can You Watch Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies?
Streaming Options Fans Search For
Availability changes frequently depending on region.
Potential places where the movie may appear include:
- Crunchyroll
- Microsoft Store
- Amazon Video
- Apple TV
- DVD collections
- Digital anime marketplaces
Always check official providers in your country because licensing rights regularly change.
Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies English Dub Guide
Is There an English Version?
Yes.
Several English dub versions have been released over the years.
Popular releases include:
- Funimation dub
- Home video editions
- Remastered collections
Many fans enjoy comparing the Japanese original with the English adaptation.
Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies DVD Information
Why Collectors Still Want It
Physical collectors continue searching for:
- Original DVD editions
- Anniversary collections
- Dragon Ball movie box sets
- Remastered releases
Reasons collectors love it:
- Nostalgia value
- Historical importance
- Unique cover art
- Franchise completion
Hidden Differences Between the Movie and Anime
Surprising Changes Most Fans Never Notice
Character Introductions
Several characters meet differently than in the manga.
New Villain
King Gurumes replaces original early-story conflicts.
Faster Pacing
The movie condenses multiple story arcs into a short runtime.
Alternate Storytelling
Events unfold in a completely different sequence.
These changes make the film feel fresh even for longtime fans.
Powerful Reasons to Watch in 2026
Why This Movie Still Holds Up
Family-Friendly Adventure
The movie is accessible for younger audiences.
Classic Animation
Hand-drawn animation provides a nostalgic charm.
Franchise History
It showcases Dragon Ball’s earliest cinematic ambitions.
Quick Viewing Experience
The film is short compared with modern anime seasons.
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓ Nostalgic storytelling
✓ Classic Dragon Ball atmosphere
✓ Fun adventure elements
✓ Unique villain
✓ Great introduction for newcomers
✓ Important piece of franchise history
Cons
✗ Non-canon storyline
✗ Simplified plot
✗ Limited character development
✗ Older animation quality
✗ Harder to find on streaming services
Expert Opinion: Is It Worth Watching?
Absolutely.
While it may not be canon, Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies remains an enjoyable alternate take on Goku’s earliest adventure.
For longtime fans, it offers nostalgia and historical significance.
For newcomers, it provides a fun standalone story without requiring extensive Dragon Ball knowledge.
Future Relevance: Why Interest Is Growing Again
Anime nostalgia continues to grow worldwide.
As new fans discover Dragon Ball through streaming platforms and social media, older movies are receiving renewed attention.
Many viewers are now exploring:
- Early Dragon Ball films
- Classic anime history
- Original franchise origins
- Rare Dragon Ball content
This trend makes Curse of the Blood Rubies more relevant than it has been in years.
Conclusion
Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies may not be canon, but it remains a fascinating chapter in Dragon Ball history.
Its adventurous spirit, memorable characters, and alternate storyline offer a refreshing break from the high-stakes battles that later defined the franchise.
Whether you’re a longtime fan revisiting the classics or a newcomer exploring Dragon Ball’s origins, this movie deserves a place on your watchlist.
The magic of young Goku’s adventures still shines nearly four decades after its release.
Featured Snippet Block
Is Dragon Ball Curse of the Blood Rubies Canon?
No. Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies is generally considered non-canon because it retells early Dragon Ball events differently from the manga and anime timeline.
When Should I Watch Dragon Ball Curse of the Blood Rubies?
Most fans recommend watching it after the first few episodes of Dragon Ball since it reimagines Goku’s earliest adventures.
Where Can I Watch Dragon Ball Curse of the Blood Rubies?
Availability varies by region. Check official platforms such as Crunchyroll, Amazon Video, Apple TV, and DVD collections.
FAQs
Is Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies canon?
No, it is considered a non-canon alternate retelling.
When was the movie released?
The film debuted in 1986.
Does it follow the manga exactly?
No. It significantly changes the story.
Is there an English dub?
Yes, multiple English dub versions exist.
Is the movie suitable for children?
Generally yes, though parental guidance is always recommended.
How long is the movie?
Approximately 50 minutes.
Does it feature Zeno?
No. Zeno appears much later in Dragon Ball Super.
Which god is Zeno?
Zeno is the Omni-King, ruler of all universes in Dragon Ball Super.
People Also Ask
- Is Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies worth watching?
- What is the first Dragon Ball movie?
- Does the movie follow the manga?
- Is King Gurumes canon?
- Where can I watch Dragon Ball movies in order?
- What is the best Dragon Ball watch order?
- How many Dragon Ball movies are non-canon?
- Which Dragon Ball movie came first?
