There are two different versions of the character Broly in Dragon Ball. The original version of Broly is a non-canonical character created by screenwriter Takao Koyama. The next version is the canonical one, which was reintroduced in the film Dragon Ball Super: Broly.
Although the two versions of Broly differ significantly in personality and storyline, they share some physical similarities. Both versions exhibit a significant increase in size when they transform, and upon reaching the Super Saiyan state, both characters’ skin and hair change to a greenish hue.
Dragon Ball Super: Broly features Naohiro Shintani as the chief animation director and character designer. His artistic style and character design have made a strong impression on fans who desire something distinct from previous iterations. Notably, the most recognizable form of Broly is Shintani’s creative interpretation, rather than Akira Toriyama’s original design.
Broly’s Full Power Form Designed by Naohiro Shintani
As is known, creator Akira Toriyama designed Broly’s character and wrote the script for Broly’s storyline in the 2018 film Dragon Ball Super: Broly.
According to an interview with Naohiro Shintani in a Japanese program dedicated to Dragon Ball Super: Broly, it turns out that this powerful form of Broly was designed by Shintani. Of course, Akira Toriyama had a guideline regarding this: he wanted Broly to not appear overly masculine, and Shintani adhered to that.
Broly has always been a fan-favorite character in the series, and moving away from the previous design could represent a significant change for the fandom. Especially when referring to Broly’s initial character design, this represents a considerable shift.
Shintani noted, “The only unique design I noticed was that he wore armor, which created a very different impression compared to Broly in the past. My impression of Broly was deeply influenced by earlier films, which is why I designed him in Full Power form from the beginning.”
Broly’s height and monstrous design are his most characteristic features, and Shintani understands that very well. Like many other fans, Shintani just wanted to see him in a fight and transform at the end of the film.
The Character Broly’s Official Role Holds Great Potential for the Future
Although the Dragon Ball Super manga has temporarily suspended production since creator Akira Toriyama’s passing, its final chapters before the hiatus featured Broly playing a significant role. Set on the planet of Beerus, Goku and Vegeta had to confront Broly to help him control his latent Super Saiyan powers. It wasn’t until Gohan appeared and revealed his transformation into a Beast form that Broly could regain control of himself.
The impending clash with Black Frieza may not only involve Broly but also Gohan.
Broly’s return in the main storyline represents a long-awaited dream for Dragon Ball fans. Even if he is no longer the same Broly as before, he still embodies the potential for transformation, thanks in part to Naohiro Shintani’s artistic contributions.
While it’s uncertain when the Dragon Ball Super manga will return, fans are hopeful for Broly’s return and battles for justice. Akira Toriyama’s departure has raised many questions regarding the future of the series, but fans can certainly look forward to more from Broly in whatever happens next.
