- Kazuhiko Torishima hinted at a new Dragon Ball movie.
- The timing aligns with Toei’s recent expansion plans amid legal developments.
- Creators are working on new projects, suggesting a possible comeback.
The long-awaited comeback of Dragon Ball appears to be more than just a pipe dream. In a video clip shared by an X user, longtime franchise editor Kazuhiko Torishima provided some tempting hints. He said, "Everyone, you can also look forward to the next Dragon Ball movie.”
Torishima did not divulge any further details, but his close ties to the production team and Toei Animation, the studio in charge of the majority of Dragon Ball projects, has kept fans interested. The speculation has led many people to believe that this is an unofficial indication that a new film is already in the works.
Are Dragon Ball’s Legal Struggles Resolved?
The timing of this is interesting, given that the most recent anime installment, Dragon Ball Daima, ended in February 2025. The series concluded with the 20th episode, just a few weeks before the first anniversary of creator Akira Toriyama's death on March 1, 2024.
The final episodes of the new Dragon Ball series drew doubts that the franchise might stall permanently, particularly since franchise ownership rights remained unclear. If reports are to be believed, there was a standoff between Dragon Ball publisher Shueisha, animation studio Toei, and Akira Toriyama's own venture, Capsule Corp.
Capsule Corp is presently led by Akio Iyoku, a producer and close colleague of Toiryama, who has been striving to gain more control over the series. As per industry observers, this, in all probability, looks to be the root of Dragon Ball's present legal dilemma.
However, recent public actions imply that this legal entanglement may be ending. Earlier this year, Toei revealed a new multi-year expansion strategy for Dragon Ball projects.
What Comes Next for Dragon Ball?
Dragon Ball Super artist and co-creator, Toyotarou, who also drew the final one-shot of the series, before it went on hiatus, is reportedly working with Torishima on a whole new manga project. This project may not be Dragon Ball, but it shows that the creative relationship is still intact.
Nevertheless, Toyotarou has reportedly assured fans that the Dragon Ball Super series may continue with a new storyline that is not based on a film. Toei Animation had recently confirmed that it had pushed a film which is part of its ‘International IP’.
On the other hand, surprisingly, WWE star AJ Lee recently disclosed that she is collaborating with the Dragon Ball anime studio on an upcoming film. Although it might easily be a new One Piece film, noting its recent popularity and live-action efforts, Dragon Ball seems to be an appealing option as well.
With Torishima and Toyotarou's remark and Toei's long-term vision, the signals are difficult to ignore. Dragon Ball's return appears to be on the horizon. It's unclear whether it will be released as an anime, film, or manga. However, fans now have something to look forward to.
