9 Most Badass Elder Masters In Martial Arts Movies

7. Master Roshi - Dragon Ball: The Magic Begins (1991)

Oogway Kung Fu Panda
Filmswell International Limited

You thought we were going to mention that awful 2009 iteration, Dragonball Evolution? Of course not, we wouldn't do that to you. Instead, let's make a stop at another crappy (yet so satisfying) adaptation. 1991's Taiwanese live-action unofficial remake, Dragon Ball: The Magic Begins. Let's remember that this is an unofficial interpretation of a heavily-guarded intellectual property; therefore, the names of characters were slightly tweaked to avoid any kind of legal issues. The results are utterly hilarious.

Based on the 1986 classic animated film Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies, this peculiar movie reintroduces Akira Toriyama's beloved characters in a campy and unforgettable fashion. For instance, renowned Master Roshi is simply credited as Turtle Man, while fan-favorite Goku is credited as Monkey Boy.

The film loosely follows the plot of the original manga's first issues, so you might know what's coming. Oh yeah, Roshi... I mean, Turtle Man totally kicking some android, alien and/or monster butt. The highlight of Roshi's badassery comes during the final confrontation, when the experienced master uses a mighty energy blast to injure the enemy and allow his pupil to deliver the final blow. And just look at that costume, nerdgasm alert!

In this post: 
Kung Fu Panda
 
First Posted On: 
Contributor
Contributor

I hear a voice inside my head, it always tells me to go get tacos. Like... right NOW! Ok, jeez, you don't have to shout. Occasionally, I write content for What Culture.