I personally really like Kaioken and Second Gear, I like it when transformations have downsides upon the users when using them. That and Dragon Install because DI goes hard
You've ever wonder if you were to see a Super Saiyan transformation in real life, would it be epic and exciting like in the anime or would it be like, "So what? You've changed your hair. Big deal." not exciting at all?
No excessive sound effects, transitions or random explosions, just pure art and a topic you're clearly passionate about We need more of this on youtube 🙏🏾
My favorite is dangai ichigo. Very stylish and it captures a lot of the pressure, frustration, and internal imbalance he feels at that point in the story
@@jordanamaya-flores8786It also had the right amount of long hair for him. I always hated the long hair he got with Vasto Lorde and in the Lunar New Year design of him in Brave Souls.
This video is a fucking masterpiece. How you describe what transformations are and what makes a good transformation. Then you lead into your favorite and how you present it. Not going to lie, the SSJ 2 section made me tear up a little because it conveys the reason DBZ made me fall in love with Anime. Storytelling. Thank you for this video and RIP Toriyama.
My favorite transformation was Naruto's Bijuu Mode during the war arc. The parallels between Naruto being discriminated his whole life only to be saved by Iruka, only for him to take up that role of Iruka to save Kurama from his life of hatred and oppression was incredible. Showcased true maturity and character growth for Naruto to help the very curse that made his life miserable. Also the powers he gets along with this form are amazing to watch, such as manifesting Kurama entirely and using Bijuu Bomb.
The section on Gohan getting to super Saiyan 2 was done really eloquently, I could feel how much it meant to you and how much is it still means to you this day and I've only ever seen bits and pieces of it it's popular enough I've known of the show but I'm watching through it right now and I can't wait to get to that part because now you've made me excited to get to it
That thumbnail is addicting the use of primary colors and composition of gohan being the main focus with the sharp lines on gohan exaggerate this even more. Brilliant!❤
I love the Gear Fifth transformation, but something about Goku's first Super Saiyan transformation just...hits all the right notes. The buildup, the desperation, the rage, the grief, and the tension...all rolled up into the almighty and quintessential Super Saiyan. Dragon Ball may not be the best when it comes to writing, but dammit...Toriyama just inspired me to make a comic book inspired by both Dragon Ball and One Piece. I was...devastated when I heard of his passing. I still to this day feel so....off...like it's surreal. I will say this and this will be undeniable... Without Dragon Ball, we wouldn't have the anime we have today. Toriyama laid out the foundation and made being an anime/manga fan cool. Heck, I will say that Dragon Ball laid out the foundation of the villains in anime. Think about it: Frieza, Cell, Majin Buu, Demon King Piccolo, Baby, The Shadow Dragons, Zamasu. Those villains were overarching, their presence on and off screen was dominable. Before them, we had villains of the week. But these guys...they stayed. And without these guys, we wouldn't have Dio Brando, Pain, Doflamingo, Shigaraki, Aizen, Muzan, the Phantom Troupe...none of them would've came to pass without Toriyama. All I can say is that....Akira Toriyama....until we meet again. ❤️ (edit: My mistake of putting Zamasu since he was recent. Also, comment who is or are your favorite anime villains and why are they so lovingly hateable or just hateable)
@@pn2294but if they go too soon it makes the story less enjoyable because this being who is stronger than everything before is just gone after so much build up, like imagine if cell was killed by vegetas final flash, or buu with final explosion, freiza with the spirit bomb. You need to give a good villain a level of plot armor to make it entertaining, it makes them feel more threatening then some one off villain it feels like they truly have power above the main character
@@yourm8596 then cut out the middlemen and just have the Goku vs Frieza or Gohan vs Cell. Those fights were too long as is considering how little happened in them
When do people die ? When they get shoot through the heart? No. When they drink a soup made up of poisonous mushroom? No! It's when they are forgotten! We love you Akira Toriyama
Horn of Salvation. Its the form of his bankai that he knew. Plus the form of the hollow he feared. Working in tandem. Thats the best part of transformations. Acceptable
One of my personal favorite transformations is Tsuna from Reborn! whenever he goes into Hyper Dying Will Mode aka Hyper Mode. It's a bit like Yugi turning into the Pharaoh, but it's still Tsuna. Not an alter ego, just Tsuna being more decisive, the gloves are off. He means business, but isn't infallible. You can see downplayed aspects of his character flaws within the form despite his change in demeanor, and vice versa when he is in his base. He will display aspects of his stronger traits in base mode. The idea is that since he is so young and given the precedence of his ancestor, that Tsuna will integrate both sides into himself as he fully matures into a man and a leader. Like Gohan, he will become better than all those that came before him, but that's for the future. This is just a glimpse into what that will be like, a precursor. This is just the tip of the ice berg without expanding on how it relates to, contrasts with and builds off of Dying Will Mode.
I'm going to spoil the last arcs of the KHR manga but i have to comment too about it, so be warned! My favorite has always been Tsuna's Ultimate mode which it`s a reflection on how, thanks to Reborn's guidance, he's finally able to overcome all his doubts and fears so that he can fight with "no chains" holding him back, and it's even reflected on the fact that Tsuna even removes his Vongola gears and gloves in order to fight barehanded not because he's overconfident, but because that's the only way he can fight using his full potential in order to save everyone.
Honestly, I've already felt the best representation of a protagonists transformation is realized through Friezas transformations since they mirror, in its own strange and unique way, the hero cycle. First form: the beginning, basic, the essential crystalization of the protagonist, his philosophy and their trials. Second form: represents their physical experience and journey at this point. They are at the third way point of their story and though still making their way, grows cocking and assured. Usually this form should represent brute force or power, something threatening but natural. Second form Frieza, gears 2nd and 3rd, and super Saiyan represent this really well. Third form represents the corruption of those materialistic ideals manifesting into something demonic, the designs are usually extravagant and detailed and envoking something primordial and frightening. Their greater goal is being submerged by their Id and ego. They are essentially in the belly of the whale, in the underworld. Third form Frieza, 4th gear, Super Saiyan 3 and 4 are good examples. 4th form is a return to home, a return to their original form but enlightened. It's similar to the original design but elevated, enlightened. Why most of these designs involve gold blue and white as they are purer colors to red and black. This form defeated the beast that was the third form to stand as it's testament. Ultra instincts, 5th gear are good examples once again. Not a blue print but I personally think it's good design philosophy. Almost like how a good final boss should always begin as a basic representation of the villain before morphing into its other elaborate designs, showing the corruption of their ideals.
Honestly I never looked at it from the perspective. Tbh I was so focused on protagonist, I forgot about villain transformations cause there are a lot of them. Maybe I’ll cover it in my villain video later this year
@@JohnnyStar to be fair, villain and hero transformations mirror each other surprisingly well. I think it's due to them representing mirror images of each other even in more ancient hero quests. Villian transformations thought would be a cool idea for a vid though, since they're intended to be a dark perversion of the protagonist.
Super Saiyan remains as my favorite transformation. As of recently, while it’s not exactly a form, Ippo’s “transformation” near the end of S1 from Hajime no Ippo is one of the best I’ve witnessed recently, with his newly self-taught technique being a result of the troubles and setbacks he faced. Damn, man. You’ve got me wanting to make a video about this now, that’s the type of impact your recent stuff has been giving people. Keep it up man, you’re on fire 🔥🔥🔥
One of my fav transformation is vasto Lorde because Ichigo at that point was so weak that his inner hollow who stated that he doesnt want to serve a weak king, takes over ichigo and destroys Ulquiorra, and the design was one of the coolest representation of that
I started watching Dragonball for the first time at the end of last year to see what it was about. I can't believe there are complaints about how Dragonball was never that good, it was absolutely amazing. The Android + Cell Saga are my favorite stretches of Z, and I remember my friends saw how stunned I was when I saw SSJ2 Gohan. Ever since then Super Saiyan 2 has always been my favorite transformation, and going through DBS right now, I doubt anything will top it.
Honestly I think Most people who say that Dbz isn’t that good are probably people who actually haven’t sat down to watch it in it’s entirety and have only seen some clips from online and then want to act like they know the series like the people who actually watched it
My favourite protagonist ever has been Kaneki since I've read tokyo ghoul, so it's no surprise that his ghoul transformation would be my favourite. He has a lot, and overtime they just become a bit more sloppy(due to the cannibalism ), but his first definite transformation, the most notable. White-haired, rinkaku kaneki is by far the most appealing transformation I think I've ever seen. The design was so minimal yet perfectly done, the build-up and pay-off, the purpose and ofcourse the abilities that came with it. Even the cold finger cracks jason habitually did while torturing him. The subtle details, everything about that transformation was wonderful to me. This video did a really spectacular job at captivating the essence of what transformations are supposed to be, something the industry seems to be losing. 10/10 video brotha, anxious to see what's in store!
You are so underrated your videos are movies your passionate about what you are talking about and do it in a fun creative way.Ssj2 has a special place in my heart being the first anime transformation I have ever seen I was 6 years old when my dad showed Gohan vs Cell this was my first time watching DB ever and I was scared of Cell and wanted to stop watching the fight but my dad insisted I keep watching then I saw Ssj2 Gohan transformation and I was so hype. Thanks to my dad for showing me Gohan vs Cell and special thanks to Akira Toriyama for the DBZ franchise you will never be forgotten.
i personally love rage transformations and one form stands out for me as it was one of the first rage forms i ever saw and showed how quickly power to become twisted this transformation is from digimon the ep were greymon dark digivloves in to skullgreymon a digimon whos drive for battle kept it alive even thought its just a skeleton
I loved how deep you went for SSJ 2 Gohan, im only a recent dragon ball fan (started around mid/late 2023) and I just love the series as whole and it gave me huge inspiration for my stories n such. But this video kinda gave me more insight of transformations as a whole, mainly the purpose section. great video, would watch again
Man, I really think Aang’s transformation to the avatar state may be the best. The single strongest form in the universe, no extra phases or further transformations later on, and once he masters it at the very end, he becomes the strongest bender no questions asked. Simple, incredibly effective, and spending the whole show mastering it was the best purpose.
This is exactly why I loved the idea of Broly in Z. He came out around the same time as SSJ2, but never faced off against it. This beast that represents the pinacle of all Saiyans in brutality, domination and bloodlust. It felt like such a missed opportunity for the narrative to not have a battle of dominance between SSJ2 Gohan and the Legendary SSJ. It's just like how you described the form's purpose, that Gohan's tenacity and strength of will made him someone that surpassed ALL those Saiyans that came before him. It would be the modern establishing the new order of things and leaving the relic of the past behind. Broly. Even Broly's design being the antithesis of Toriyama's sleek forms would contrast Gohan and support this narrative.
Excellent video brother. Loved every second of it! Gohan SSJ2 will always hold a special place in my heart too for transformations and more importantly the meaning and resilience behind it 💪
So, for "Power Ranger transformations" you could more simply call that style and reminiscents of it "Tokusatsu". With the general meaning of "Special Effects Show" it's become rather synonymous with both daikaiju and the "Henshin Hero". Sailor Moon took magical girls into a new direction by adding in Sentai Elements and you see so now within things like Symphogear to use an example.
this may sound dumb... hilarious even. i'm a huge Sonic fan, I've been in this franchise for as long as I can remember, and the transformations in that series was something I've always found amazing, each of my favorite characters was able to have a small glimpse of what it was like to be Super, but no one was able to do it like Sonic could. Super Sonic is iconic... but Sonic Frontiers made me hopeful that the franchise could shy away from the Dragon Ball comparisons and embrace the thing people would always point out no matter what. So, you see... what Gohan's Saiyan 2 transformation was to you, *Super Sonic 2* was the thing that made me remember why i was in love with the world, the characters and games in the first place, it was that hype moment that you KNEW when Sonic mastered his technique, it would be over for the bad guy. Sonic reaching another form after years of us clamoring for a return of Hyper Sonic and the likes felt like such an amazing thing... and that is why i love it so much. he is truly Undefeatable 💙 this comment doesn't go that much in depth of what i really want to say, it would've fit better in video format, but i just wanted to share it with all of you... thank you
The editing to the way your articulate your opinions just gives a cinematic feel hope I can get to that level of video making keep it up bro your content is out of this world !
Well, that's around my 30th time rewatching this video. Honestly I can't thank you enough for your content Johnny, as an aspiring writer (screenwriter if we're using our made up names) I can't lie and say bringing concepts like transformations, characters/character roles, story beats and such together is easy even with multiple different recipes laid out in front of you to pick off of and learn from. From your older review videos to the latest video I've learned a lot from your perspective on things, sound on and off. The absurdly creative editing, pacing of the videos, topics, almost everything these videos have had to offer inspired me in numerous ways, numerous times. (The music too YOU'VE PUT SOME OF MY FAVORITE SONGS IN THESE THANK YOU) These videos have allowed me to transcend my previous means of approach to something I hold dear and once again there's no number of "thank you"s that could make up for your works, you've allowed me to reach my transformation. If you have any more information to spare on how you do what you do and see what you see in fictional media I'd love to see more of it in future videos and where ever else you plan to share it. A friend of your creation, Khan on youtube (Sage mode from Naruto has to be my favorite transformation, I'd say Mitsuki's one specifically because Naruto's didn't get the shine I would've liked it having)
The reason why I love Gohan is because he hated fighting, he did not want to. He was skilled but that wasn't his identity. It's the breaking point that made him fight. I find that to be more relatable than Goku's highly optimistic, "Let's fight" attitude
@@oritsedomaomeresan I know I'm comparing the most fascinating aspect of Gohan (for me) vs a very not so great aspect of Goku (for me). Goku is a Genius martial artist undoubtedly. Yet I like Gohan a lot more
Not every character has to be relatable. I couldnt stand Gohan because while people are literally fighting for the preservation of earth that whole " I dont like fighting" aint gunna cut it. Especially when you are told that in the future with your father dead, you end up fighting anyway. So its more illogical that relatable. And mind you Gohan always put in him harms when necessary like going to Namek. Androids/Cell was no different and Toriyama goofed making it seem like its because Goku thinks Gohan likes fighting. No, he just believed hes the one who can beat Cell and bring peace so he can go off and a scholar. Then years later he's all hype to join a martial arts tournament and even wanting to fight Dabura. Goku does what he wants/enjoyable but also steps up to a challenge even if it scares him. Facing adversity is inspirational.
@@UnifiedEntity To each their own. Idk man, I just find Gohan relatable. I sort of understand Gohan more than Goku. My personal experience too makes me like Gohan more. He is the son of a talented great father, who is riddled with self doubt, doesn't believe he is as good as his father, is told that he is talented, Loves to do something else and he values something else more. More importantly Gohan liked to help people rather than fight. He never liked fighting even in Namek, he wanted to help in any way possible. So no, Gohan never liked fighting no matter what even in Namek.
Damn, once again, fantastic video. A transformation that stuck out to me in my time playing games was Luke fon Fabre in Tales of the Abyss. All he did was cut his hair, but he did so to show he wasn't going to be a snobby rich brat to a man that wants to grow and learn about the world around him. I also love Velvet's too. I love the Tales of series. Great job dude!
I’ve tried many times to overcome certain habits and failed and along with a few other moments and seeing this video and you making me remember my favorite character and his transformation. I have official begun mine thank you
As a writer, you have no idea how much this video helped me take a more critical look at my own work, I’m so glad I found this channel!! Awesome stuff bruh 🔥
Dude ngl your channel is easily worth a million subs I just feel anguished seeing your videos not getting enough recognition. I mean- this is just pure art man.
Gear 4th Snakeman Luffy and Ultra Instinct Sign Goku. They may not mean too much thematically speaking, but in a world where characters change so much physically and chromatically, I like the "familiar but different" vibe I get from these forms. They feel like the natural evolution of a character. It's as if most of the transformation they've undergone has been internal with a little bit externally to signify the change. Snakeman still looks like Luffy while fitting the "monkey" moniker he's name after, and UI sign Goku looks like what I imagine someone to look like if they mastered their instincts. People at their best don't go through drastic physical changes because most of what's changed can't be perceived until you interact with them. It reminds me of Mystic Gohan, and him being the strongest character (in terms of transformations) by the end of Z despite looking the most normal. I think that kind of "Quiet Power" is just cool.
This is my first video from you ive seen! You distilled the careful consideration behind the art of transformations so clearly and simply its hard to believe it was a 16 minute video. You have a gift for analysis and teaching, but you dont come across as those who take a semi-academic approach to it. Just a genuinely smart person who takes an honest look at the media to describe why manga and anime makes us FEEL and why its an art that should be taken seriously. Much like how you established purpose is what makes simple designs transcend the pages, your editing brought your arguments to a whole different level. You just got a fan in me and I can't wait to see what you do next! Keep goin!
Yayy, we agree on the best transformation ever. By your anatomical break down, the design is literally visually striking with the introduction of the free flowing electricity. The ability of the father son kamehawave--insane as it serves to show his latent potential while connecting to the purpose. He was able to internally grow and have his beliefs challenged where he ultimately matures in the blink of an eye (depicted in the everso iconic frame) putting all of his character build up going as far back as Goku's childhood in dragon ball with the elements enstilled in him from Granpa Gohan. Amazing work
You are a genius... Never had I guessed that Blue Water Blue Sky such a good BGM would be for SSJ2. Thanks for giving me that knowledge. Oh for the Topic. My favorite Transformation would be SSJ4. I know in the department of Ability and Purpose it is lacking BUT I absolutly love how SSJ4 feels (for me) like the final transformation of a pure Saiyan.
After watching a couple videos, you're definitely one of my favorite channels to watch; favorite analytical channel thereof. Amazing editing, awesome breakdowns of series (coming from a person that never cares about this kinda stuff). Instant sub
Excellent video. I love your presentation style. Only made it halfway into the video before I knew I had to subscribe so I can see whatever you come out with next.
Great stuff man. I’m right there with you, DBZ is what got me into anime, being played at weird hours of the night on Cartoon Network, I was mesmerized. Thank you for giving Son Gohan the praise he deserves, and Akira Toriyama the credit he deserves for the masterpiece he created.
I love watching these videos even though you claim your not a professional this feels like a free college course in storytelling and its really helped me with my stories
SSJ 2 Gohan is responsible for countless panels being ripped off. I used to hire manga from stores but I could not find the one panel. LOL. Luckily I also watch anime so I know what happened
Right when you were like, "you wanna know what my favorite transformation is?" I had my phone in my pocket, listening on my bluetooth. I realized my favorite transformation has always been kaioken.
I think my favorite character for transformation aspect has to go to Ichigo. Ichigo was a character I felt like I can always relate and to see how much he grows a character overtime is something I will never get tired of and why Bleach is my fav outta the big 3. My fav Ichigo form is his Final Getsuga form everything he went through since the beginning and having to accept himself, the shinigami who he was afraid of from the very beginning, the struggles he went though, learning about his lineage it all came to that very moment. And at that point of the series Aizen was unstoppable no could touch him so seeing Ichigo whopp his ass with basically no effort was a amazing moment to see for me and a scene I will never forget as long as I live. Fantastic video always Johnny always love hearing your insight on things and I hope whatever you are going through mentally I know you will make it through.
After watching two of your videos, I really like your method of breaking down stories that I have grown up with give me a sense of peace and nostalgia that I really miss. You can tell you enjoy your writing and making these videos. Can't wait to see more!
What's your favorite transformation?
Gear 5 goes kinda crazy I like it
I personally really like Kaioken and Second Gear, I like it when transformations have downsides upon the users when using them. That and Dragon Install because DI goes hard
Gear 5th cuz I'm a diehard One Piece fan
You are so underrated!! Hella talented you will blow up brother keep it up👍🏿
You've ever wonder if you were to see a Super Saiyan transformation in real life, would it be epic and exciting like in the anime or would it be like, "So what? You've changed your hair. Big deal." not exciting at all?
The realization that Ben Ten is a magical girl transformation has shook me to my core
WTF YOOOOOOO YOOOOOOO THIS IS BIGGEST FUCKING REALITY SHIFT IN MY PERSPECTIVE EVER
I asked that question about Power Rangers and Kamen Riders and such too. Like are they Magical Girls and Magical Boys?
👁️ open your third eye
@@JohnnyStar……and do a tri-beam? Yessir!
……i am incredibly sorry for this extremely corny joke.
@@muhammadmahardhikaadhyaksa2902 just know you deserve this.
NEO TRI-BEAM!!!
*makes giant fucking squares where you used to be*
Petition for "How to write the perfect antagonist"
My brother in Christ, he made that video 2 months ago
@@azhero that was about protagonists tho?
He’ll have to read part 7 of jojo first
Bro making me tear up in a university library.
🫡cry on, Solider
No excessive sound effects, transitions or random explosions, just pure art and a topic you're clearly passionate about
We need more of this on youtube 🙏🏾
JUST 100% GAS!!!
Ya who wants fun😂😂
Bro is criminally underrated. Keep up the good work.
Lets get it to overhyped! Thats how I’ll know I made it
This is literally the first time I’ve seen this guy but the first two seconds of the video show quality right away 0:47
This is actually so good.
Exactly, a lot of creators be editing for hours and probably days but their vids only get half the views then most
Bro visited his friend
Goku's first thoughts seeing Gohan: "I heard you're my son. You must be pretty strong. Let's fight."
MUI Goku vs Beast Gohan in a nutshell.
Gohan after fighting UI Goku: so this is what having a dad is like?
😂@@pkkiller_apathy4568
@@pkkiller_apathy4568 You tfs clowns really need to stop
@@geokashi357You do realize that Toriyama himself stated in a interview that Goku isn't a good father right??
It’s crazy how we have all of these sick transformations but a spiked up color change to a saiyans hair will always be the coolest shit ever.
Less is more
Indeed
It’s not cool at all,in fact it’s lazy,but that’s just my opinion
@@melvinslaughter7685 Thats just wrong on so many levels super saiyan is fucking sick
@@melvinslaughter7685 We making it into the dweeb convention with this one
Excellent writing my dude, seeing Gohan go SSJ2 again and your commentary lowkey had me tearing up
My favorite is dangai ichigo. Very stylish and it captures a lot of the pressure, frustration, and internal imbalance he feels at that point in the story
Realistically tho its horn of salvation cuz of the way it subverts and reclaims the image of his biggest fears. ❤
Same dangai the best
That arm chain is badass
@@jordanamaya-flores8786It also had the right amount of long hair for him. I always hated the long hair he got with Vasto Lorde and in the Lunar New Year design of him in Brave Souls.
I like how it's just hi bankai
This video is a fucking masterpiece. How you describe what transformations are and what makes a good transformation. Then you lead into your favorite and how you present it. Not going to lie, the SSJ 2 section made me tear up a little because it conveys the reason DBZ made me fall in love with Anime. Storytelling. Thank you for this video and RIP Toriyama.
Had to show love to my favorite and appreciation to the legend. Forever long live toriyama
Couldn't have said it better myself.
EZ sub from me, way to capture Gohan and his transformation perfectly my man.
"Power comes in response to a need, not a desire. You have to create that need."
- Son Goku
That thumbnail is gas!! 🔥🔥🔥
Yessssirrr!!!
10:30 That right there 😌👌
Edit: I love almost all of Ichigo's forms they speak to me when no other did as I grew closer to resignate with.
Btw does everyone know that music that was playing for that part?
@@mariohernandez2768No idea but I believe that was the music the creator of the video put in while editing 😅👌
@@danteshollowedgrounds yeah found it lol thank you!
@@mariohernandez2768
What's the theme name?
@mariohernandez2768
NVM, I found it
RFM Beats - 3 minutes
My favorite transformation was Naruto's Bijuu Mode during the war arc.
The parallels between Naruto being discriminated his whole life only to be saved by Iruka, only for him to take up that role of Iruka to save Kurama from his life of hatred and oppression was incredible.
Showcased true maturity and character growth for Naruto to help the very curse that made his life miserable.
Also the powers he gets along with this form are amazing to watch, such as manifesting Kurama entirely and using Bijuu Bomb.
A fellow BM (KCM2) enjoyer is SOOOO rare!!
I'm high-key salty I clicked on this video, added it to my watch later... and just ended up watching the whole thing right now.
Great video Johnny!
Thanks bro! 😎 always happy when the bois are satisfied
The section on Gohan getting to super Saiyan 2 was done really eloquently, I could feel how much it meant to you and how much is it still means to you this day and I've only ever seen bits and pieces of it it's popular enough I've known of the show but I'm watching through it right now and I can't wait to get to that part because now you've made me excited to get to it
Did you get to it?
That thumbnail is addicting the use of primary colors and composition of gohan being the main focus with the sharp lines on gohan exaggerate this even more. Brilliant!❤
Absolutely phenomenal usage of jungle and Breakcore in this video. Really elevated the essay
rip Toriyama
That last section made me tear up a little ngl, I love some Gohan apreciation, he's my favorite DBZ character
That intro was fire 🔥🔥🔥
Last minute change with the beat switch, best possible decision
I love the Gear Fifth transformation, but something about Goku's first Super Saiyan transformation just...hits all the right notes. The buildup, the desperation, the rage, the grief, and the tension...all rolled up into the almighty and quintessential Super Saiyan.
Dragon Ball may not be the best when it comes to writing, but dammit...Toriyama just inspired me to make a comic book inspired by both Dragon Ball and One Piece.
I was...devastated when I heard of his passing. I still to this day feel so....off...like it's surreal. I will say this and this will be undeniable...
Without Dragon Ball, we wouldn't have the anime we have today. Toriyama laid out the foundation and made being an anime/manga fan cool. Heck, I will say that Dragon Ball laid out the foundation of the villains in anime.
Think about it: Frieza, Cell, Majin Buu, Demon King Piccolo, Baby, The Shadow Dragons, Zamasu. Those villains were overarching, their presence on and off screen was dominable. Before them, we had villains of the week. But these guys...they stayed. And without these guys, we wouldn't have Dio Brando, Pain, Doflamingo, Shigaraki, Aizen, Muzan, the Phantom Troupe...none of them would've came to pass without Toriyama.
All I can say is that....Akira Toriyama....until we meet again. ❤️
(edit: My mistake of putting Zamasu since he was recent. Also, comment who is or are your favorite anime villains and why are they so lovingly hateable or just hateable)
I always felt like those were weaknesses rather than pros.
It’s bad for villains to last too long. It just gives them plot armor.
@@pn2294Lame take
@@pn2294but if they go too soon it makes the story less enjoyable because this being who is stronger than everything before is just gone after so much build up, like imagine if cell was killed by vegetas final flash, or buu with final explosion, freiza with the spirit bomb. You need to give a good villain a level of plot armor to make it entertaining, it makes them feel more threatening then some one off villain it feels like they truly have power above the main character
@@yourm8596 then cut out the middlemen and just have the Goku vs Frieza or Gohan vs Cell.
Those fights were too long as is considering how little happened in them
@@pn2294no because without the middle men you can't show how powerful your main hero or main villian is in comparison to others
Rip Akira Toriyama 😢
P.s- i love Gohan's transformation too 😊
When do people die ? When they get shoot through the heart? No. When they drink a soup made up of poisonous mushroom? No! It's when they are forgotten!
We love you Akira Toriyama
You truly represent the mindset of us that love anime, none of the extra stuff just simply saying what you believe
Horn of Salvation. Its the form of his bankai that he knew. Plus the form of the hollow he feared. Working in tandem.
Thats the best part of transformations. Acceptable
this might be one of the best videos ive ever seen
One of my personal favorite transformations is Tsuna from Reborn! whenever he goes into Hyper Dying Will Mode aka Hyper Mode. It's a bit like Yugi turning into the Pharaoh, but it's still Tsuna. Not an alter ego, just Tsuna being more decisive, the gloves are off. He means business, but isn't infallible. You can see downplayed aspects of his character flaws within the form despite his change in demeanor, and vice versa when he is in his base. He will display aspects of his stronger traits in base mode. The idea is that since he is so young and given the precedence of his ancestor, that Tsuna will integrate both sides into himself as he fully matures into a man and a leader. Like Gohan, he will become better than all those that came before him, but that's for the future. This is just a glimpse into what that will be like, a precursor. This is just the tip of the ice berg without expanding on how it relates to, contrasts with and builds off of Dying Will Mode.
My favorite’s his Cambio Forma Version X in the manga. The stronger he gets the more accessories he adds
@@jordanamaya-flores8786 I love the accessories too! Like the fused rings. Those gravity powers were awesome while they lasted
Reborn being mentioned W
I'm going to spoil the last arcs of the KHR manga but i have to comment too about it, so be warned!
My favorite has always been Tsuna's Ultimate mode which it`s a reflection on how, thanks to Reborn's guidance, he's finally able to overcome all his doubts and fears so that he can fight with "no chains" holding him back, and it's even reflected on the fact that Tsuna even removes his Vongola gears and gloves in order to fight barehanded not because he's overconfident, but because that's the only way he can fight using his full potential in order to save everyone.
@@samuelromero4696 Really well put
Honestly, I've already felt the best representation of a protagonists transformation is realized through Friezas transformations since they mirror, in its own strange and unique way, the hero cycle.
First form: the beginning, basic, the essential crystalization of the protagonist, his philosophy and their trials.
Second form: represents their physical experience and journey at this point. They are at the third way point of their story and though still making their way, grows cocking and assured. Usually this form should represent brute force or power, something threatening but natural. Second form Frieza, gears 2nd and 3rd, and super Saiyan represent this really well.
Third form represents the corruption of those materialistic ideals manifesting into something demonic, the designs are usually extravagant and detailed and envoking something primordial and frightening. Their greater goal is being submerged by their Id and ego. They are essentially in the belly of the whale, in the underworld. Third form Frieza, 4th gear, Super Saiyan 3 and 4 are good examples.
4th form is a return to home, a return to their original form but enlightened. It's similar to the original design but elevated, enlightened. Why most of these designs involve gold blue and white as they are purer colors to red and black. This form defeated the beast that was the third form to stand as it's testament. Ultra instincts, 5th gear are good examples once again.
Not a blue print but I personally think it's good design philosophy. Almost like how a good final boss should always begin as a basic representation of the villain before morphing into its other elaborate designs, showing the corruption of their ideals.
Honestly I never looked at it from the perspective. Tbh I was so focused on protagonist, I forgot about villain transformations cause there are a lot of them. Maybe I’ll cover it in my villain video later this year
@@JohnnyStar to be fair, villain and hero transformations mirror each other surprisingly well. I think it's due to them representing mirror images of each other even in more ancient hero quests.
Villian transformations thought would be a cool idea for a vid though, since they're intended to be a dark perversion of the protagonist.
Super Saiyan remains as my favorite transformation. As of recently, while it’s not exactly a form, Ippo’s “transformation” near the end of S1 from Hajime no Ippo is one of the best I’ve witnessed recently, with his newly self-taught technique being a result of the troubles and setbacks he faced. Damn, man. You’ve got me wanting to make a video about this now, that’s the type of impact your recent stuff has been giving people. Keep it up man, you’re on fire 🔥🔥🔥
One of my fav transformation is vasto Lorde because Ichigo at that point was so weak that his inner hollow who stated that he doesnt want to serve a weak king, takes over ichigo and destroys Ulquiorra, and the design was one of the coolest representation of that
I started watching Dragonball for the first time at the end of last year to see what it was about. I can't believe there are complaints about how Dragonball was never that good, it was absolutely amazing. The Android + Cell Saga are my favorite stretches of Z, and I remember my friends saw how stunned I was when I saw SSJ2 Gohan. Ever since then Super Saiyan 2 has always been my favorite transformation, and going through DBS right now, I doubt anything will top it.
Honestly I think Most people who say that Dbz isn’t that good are probably people who actually haven’t sat down to watch it in it’s entirety and have only seen some clips from online and then want to act like they know the series like the people who actually watched it
I love this video!!!
YOOOO!!!! Thank you bro
The editing the music the b roll the script. This video is literally perfect
My favourite protagonist ever has been Kaneki since I've read tokyo ghoul, so it's no surprise that his ghoul transformation would be my favourite. He has a lot, and overtime they just become a bit more sloppy(due to the cannibalism ), but his first definite transformation, the most notable. White-haired, rinkaku kaneki is by far the most appealing transformation I think I've ever seen. The design was so minimal yet perfectly done, the build-up and pay-off, the purpose and ofcourse the abilities that came with it. Even the cold finger cracks jason habitually did while torturing him. The subtle details, everything about that transformation was wonderful to me. This video did a really spectacular job at captivating the essence of what transformations are supposed to be, something the industry seems to be losing. 10/10 video brotha, anxious to see what's in store!
You are so underrated your videos are movies your passionate about what you are talking about and do it in a fun creative way.Ssj2 has a special place in my heart being the first anime transformation I have ever seen I was 6 years old when my dad showed Gohan vs Cell this was my first time watching DB ever and I was scared of Cell and wanted to stop watching the fight but my dad insisted I keep watching then I saw Ssj2 Gohan transformation and I was so hype. Thanks to my dad for showing me Gohan vs Cell and special thanks to Akira Toriyama for the DBZ franchise you will never be forgotten.
So proud of the work you put into this man. All those weeks of hard work were 100% worth it. You absolutely killed it.
MIKEY!!!!!!😭 THANK YOU MY FRIEND!!!
i personally love rage transformations and one form stands out for me as it was one of the first rage forms i ever saw and showed how quickly power to become twisted this transformation is from digimon the ep were greymon dark digivloves in to skullgreymon a digimon whos drive for battle kept it alive even thought its just a skeleton
2:20 bro is foreshadowing his "How to write the perfect antagonist" video
I loved how deep you went for SSJ 2 Gohan, im only a recent dragon ball fan (started around mid/late 2023) and I just love the series as whole and it gave me huge inspiration for my stories n such.
But this video kinda gave me more insight of transformations as a whole, mainly the purpose section.
great video, would watch again
This video is incredible. The editing and pacing is amazing, thanks Johnny :)
Man, I really think Aang’s transformation to the avatar state may be the best. The single strongest form in the universe, no extra phases or further transformations later on, and once he masters it at the very end, he becomes the strongest bender no questions asked. Simple, incredibly effective, and spending the whole show mastering it was the best purpose.
Gohan's storyline is the thread that keeps Dragonball Z afloat. I cannot see DBZ without him.
This is exactly why I loved the idea of Broly in Z. He came out around the same time as SSJ2, but never faced off against it. This beast that represents the pinacle of all Saiyans in brutality, domination and bloodlust. It felt like such a missed opportunity for the narrative to not have a battle of dominance between SSJ2 Gohan and the Legendary SSJ. It's just like how you described the form's purpose, that Gohan's tenacity and strength of will made him someone that surpassed ALL those Saiyans that came before him. It would be the modern establishing the new order of things and leaving the relic of the past behind. Broly. Even Broly's design being the antithesis of Toriyama's sleek forms would contrast Gohan and support this narrative.
Excellent video brother. Loved every second of it! Gohan SSJ2 will always hold a special place in my heart too for transformations and more importantly the meaning and resilience behind it 💪
So, for "Power Ranger transformations" you could more simply call that style and reminiscents of it "Tokusatsu". With the general meaning of "Special Effects Show" it's become rather synonymous with both daikaiju and the "Henshin Hero". Sailor Moon took magical girls into a new direction by adding in Sentai Elements and you see so now within things like Symphogear to use an example.
this may sound dumb... hilarious even.
i'm a huge Sonic fan, I've been in this franchise for as long as I can remember, and the transformations in that series was something I've always found amazing, each of my favorite characters was able to have a small glimpse of what it was like to be Super, but no one was able to do it like Sonic could.
Super Sonic is iconic... but Sonic Frontiers made me hopeful that the franchise could shy away from the Dragon Ball comparisons and embrace the thing people would always point out no matter what.
So, you see... what Gohan's Saiyan 2 transformation was to you, *Super Sonic 2* was the thing that made me remember why i was in love with the world, the characters and games in the first place, it was that hype moment that you KNEW when Sonic mastered his technique, it would be over for the bad guy.
Sonic reaching another form after years of us clamoring for a return of Hyper Sonic and the likes felt like such an amazing thing... and that is why i love it so much. he is truly Undefeatable 💙
this comment doesn't go that much in depth of what i really want to say, it would've fit better in video format, but i just wanted to share it with all of you... thank you
I see Quality Content, I stay tuned for Quality Content, keep it up I love this stuff ^^
The editing to the way your articulate your opinions just gives a cinematic feel hope I can get to that level of video making keep it up bro your content is out of this world !
Thank you thank you, trying to my best out here🙏
Well, that's around my 30th time rewatching this video. Honestly I can't thank you enough for your content Johnny, as an aspiring writer (screenwriter if we're using our made up names) I can't lie and say bringing concepts like transformations, characters/character roles, story beats and such together is easy even with multiple different recipes laid out in front of you to pick off of and learn from.
From your older review videos to the latest video I've learned a lot from your perspective on things, sound on and off. The absurdly creative editing, pacing of the videos, topics, almost everything these videos have had to offer inspired me in numerous ways, numerous times. (The music too YOU'VE PUT SOME OF MY FAVORITE SONGS IN THESE THANK YOU)
These videos have allowed me to transcend my previous means of approach to something I hold dear and once again there's no number of "thank you"s that could make up for your works, you've allowed me to reach my transformation.
If you have any more information to spare on how you do what you do and see what you see in fictional media I'd love to see more of it in future videos and where ever else you plan to share it.
A friend of your creation,
Khan on youtube
(Sage mode from Naruto has to be my favorite transformation, I'd say Mitsuki's one specifically because Naruto's didn't get the shine I would've liked it having)
The reason why I love Gohan is because he hated fighting, he did not want to. He was skilled but that wasn't his identity.
It's the breaking point that made him fight.
I find that to be more relatable than Goku's highly optimistic, "Let's fight" attitude
That isn’t all Goku is
@@oritsedomaomeresan I know I'm comparing the most fascinating aspect of Gohan (for me) vs a very not so great aspect of Goku (for me).
Goku is a Genius martial artist undoubtedly. Yet I like Gohan a lot more
@@ArthKryst ok my bad bro
Not every character has to be relatable. I couldnt stand Gohan because while people are literally fighting for the preservation of earth that whole " I dont like fighting" aint gunna cut it. Especially when you are told that in the future with your father dead, you end up fighting anyway. So its more illogical that relatable. And mind you Gohan always put in him harms when necessary like going to Namek. Androids/Cell was no different and Toriyama goofed making it seem like its because Goku thinks Gohan likes fighting. No, he just believed hes the one who can beat Cell and bring peace so he can go off and a scholar.
Then years later he's all hype to join a martial arts tournament and even wanting to fight Dabura.
Goku does what he wants/enjoyable but also steps up to a challenge even if it scares him. Facing adversity is inspirational.
@@UnifiedEntity To each their own.
Idk man, I just find Gohan relatable.
I sort of understand Gohan more than Goku. My personal experience too makes me like Gohan more. He is the son of a talented great father, who is riddled with self doubt, doesn't believe he is as good as his father, is told that he is talented, Loves to do something else and he values something else more. More importantly Gohan liked to help people rather than fight. He never liked fighting even in Namek, he wanted to help in any way possible. So no, Gohan never liked fighting no matter what even in Namek.
I just wanted to say thank you so much that was a fun watch sir!
Man, i gotta say. Your work is fantastic and your passion for it is clear on the attention to details you have. Insane.
ssj2 gohan and ichigo appretiation? We love to see it
Had to show love to the goats⭐️
and this is why i always tell people that my favorite character has always been Gohan. it is criminal what they did to him in Z and Super 😔
You’re really helping me formulate and write my protagonist better for my later chapters; so thank you
the quality of these videos are unreal. keep up the good work johnny
Damn, once again, fantastic video. A transformation that stuck out to me in my time playing games was Luke fon Fabre in Tales of the Abyss. All he did was cut his hair, but he did so to show he wasn't going to be a snobby rich brat to a man that wants to grow and learn about the world around him. I also love Velvet's too. I love the Tales of series. Great job dude!
Another incredible video bro
🫡 thank you my goat
I’ve tried many times to overcome certain habits and failed and along with a few other moments and seeing this video and you making me remember my favorite character and his transformation. I have official begun mine thank you
As a writer, you have no idea how much this video helped me take a more critical look at my own work, I’m so glad I found this channel!! Awesome stuff bruh 🔥
Commentary, flow of video sequence, music selection 👌🏾 Great Job man, nostalgic vibes going crazy
Now this is some real quality
Dude ngl your channel is easily worth a million subs I just feel anguished seeing your videos not getting enough recognition. I mean- this is just pure art man.
Gear 4th Snakeman Luffy and Ultra Instinct Sign Goku. They may not mean too much thematically speaking, but in a world where characters change so much physically and chromatically, I like the "familiar but different" vibe I get from these forms. They feel like the natural evolution of a character. It's as if most of the transformation they've undergone has been internal with a little bit externally to signify the change. Snakeman still looks like Luffy while fitting the "monkey" moniker he's name after, and UI sign Goku looks like what I imagine someone to look like if they mastered their instincts. People at their best don't go through drastic physical changes because most of what's changed can't be perceived until you interact with them.
It reminds me of Mystic Gohan, and him being the strongest character (in terms of transformations) by the end of Z despite looking the most normal. I think that kind of "Quiet Power" is just cool.
this editing style with these type of vids just work so well
This is my first video from you ive seen! You distilled the careful consideration behind the art of transformations so clearly and simply its hard to believe it was a 16 minute video. You have a gift for analysis and teaching, but you dont come across as those who take a semi-academic approach to it. Just a genuinely smart person who takes an honest look at the media to describe why manga and anime makes us FEEL and why its an art that should be taken seriously. Much like how you established purpose is what makes simple designs transcend the pages, your editing brought your arguments to a whole different level. You just got a fan in me and I can't wait to see what you do next! Keep goin!
Yayy, we agree on the best transformation ever. By your anatomical break down, the design is literally visually striking with the introduction of the free flowing electricity. The ability of the father son kamehawave--insane as it serves to show his latent potential while connecting to the purpose. He was able to internally grow and have his beliefs challenged where he ultimately matures in the blink of an eye (depicted in the everso iconic frame) putting all of his character build up going as far back as Goku's childhood in dragon ball with the elements enstilled in him from Granpa Gohan. Amazing work
WHY ARE THERE TEARS IN MY EYES😭😭
gotta love the tags and description of the video
You are a genius... Never had I guessed that Blue Water Blue Sky such a good BGM would be for SSJ2. Thanks for giving me that knowledge.
Oh for the Topic. My favorite Transformation would be SSJ4. I know in the department of Ability and Purpose it is lacking BUT I absolutly love how SSJ4 feels (for me) like the final transformation of a pure Saiyan.
After watching a couple videos, you're definitely one of my favorite channels to watch; favorite analytical channel thereof. Amazing editing, awesome breakdowns of series (coming from a person that never cares about this kinda stuff). Instant sub
this was an incredible video. Great breakdown of transformations and then an S-Tier analysis of Dragon Ball and Gohan's SSII transformation. 10/10
every time a new johnny star vid drops yk its a cinematic masterpiece
I could listen to you speaking for hours. Amazing video, topic, music choice, editing, all of it! Keep it up, your vids are really inspirational :)
Hehe thanks! I’ll do my best⭐️
Wow didnt expect to be wiping tears from eyes in my lab this morning. Incredible storytelling and writing
I agree Gohan's transformation is one of the best of all time.
I've seen these types of videos before, but none have been almost "crafted" so well as yours. Really enjoyable. Thanks for being entertaining.
that opening was just something else, peak writing and direction
I think one of the best transformations is johnny joestar tusk acts,it was so masterfully done.
Thank you for reminding me why I love so many series but also inspiring me to go find and read dragon ball
you have to be the most underrated youtuber of all time
This is the first video I watched, his videos are so structured and professional it's so insane
Subscribed. The use of my favorite video game song in this video (When Mother Was There - Persona 5) got me.
Excellent video. I love your presentation style. Only made it halfway into the video before I knew I had to subscribe so I can see whatever you come out with next.
🚶🏿another satisfied customer ⭐️
Great stuff man. I’m right there with you, DBZ is what got me into anime, being played at weird hours of the night on Cartoon Network, I was mesmerized. Thank you for giving Son Gohan the praise he deserves, and Akira Toriyama the credit he deserves for the masterpiece he created.
GuiltyGear music along w the ssj2 scene went crazy
I like how he’s talking to a therapist like there’s a bigger story ahead
👀
@@JohnnyStar oh spoilers
14:58 STRENGHT OF THE WORLD! one of my favorite Avenged Sevenfold songs and goes great with this whole fight.
My favorite has to be Shigeo. Just the emotions behind his "transformations" are either heartwarming or fear inducing.
This is genuinely one of my favorite videos on TH-cam
I love watching these videos even though you claim your not a professional this feels like a free college course in storytelling and its really helped me with my stories
a video to bring tears, that second half got me
I wanna make everyone cry, thats the goal
SSJ 2 Gohan is responsible for countless panels being ripped off. I used to hire manga from stores but I could not find the one panel. LOL. Luckily I also watch anime so I know what happened
Thanks for allowing me to help craft a small part of this greatness ⭐😍
Right when you were like, "you wanna know what my favorite transformation is?" I had my phone in my pocket, listening on my bluetooth. I realized my favorite transformation has always been kaioken.
I think my favorite character for transformation aspect has to go to Ichigo. Ichigo was a character I felt like I can always relate and to see how much he grows a character overtime is something I will never get tired of and why Bleach is my fav outta the big 3. My fav Ichigo form is his Final Getsuga form everything he went through since the beginning and having to accept himself, the shinigami who he was afraid of from the very beginning, the struggles he went though, learning about his lineage it all came to that very moment. And at that point of the series Aizen was unstoppable no could touch him so seeing Ichigo whopp his ass with basically no effort was a amazing moment to see for me and a scene I will never forget as long as I live. Fantastic video always Johnny always love hearing your insight on things and I hope whatever you are going through mentally I know you will make it through.
This video was absolutely beautifully put together. From the narration, to the editing, to the music, honestly an amazing video!
the writing in this video is my favorite thing i think. also love that everything is credited super well thank you
After watching two of your videos, I really like your method of breaking down stories that I have grown up with give me a sense of peace and nostalgia that I really miss. You can tell you enjoy your writing and making these videos. Can't wait to see more!
Earned a sub for two awesome soundtracks back to back.
I remembered to list em this time😭