The Red Ribbon Army - Dragon Ball

The Red Ribbon Army in Dragon Ball

Introduction

The Red Ribbon Army is a pivotal and antagonistic faction in Akira Toriyama’s renowned anime and manga series, Dragon Ball. First introduced in the December 1985 issue of Weekly Shōnen Jump in chapter 55, "The Red Ribbon (A Red Ribbon)," this arc marks a significant shift in the series’ tone and narrative complexity[2].

The Red Ribbon Army was created by Akira Toriyama, who is both the writer and illustrator of the Dragon Ball series. The production of this arc involved various key figures, including the anime directors and producers who brought Toriyama’s vision to life. The Red Ribbon Army arc, spanning episodes 35 to 45 of the Dragon Ball anime, is notable for its darker tone and the introduction of more complex villains compared to the earlier sagas[3].

What sets the Red Ribbon Army apart within its genre is its depiction of a militarized organization with a strict hierarchy and ruthless methods, which contrasts sharply with the more light-hearted and comedic elements of the earlier Dragon Ball sagas. This shift towards a darker narrative helped to mature the series and expand its appeal to a broader audience.

Plot Summary

The Red Ribbon Army arc follows Goku as he continues his quest for the Dragon Balls, only to find himself confronted by a powerful and well-organized military force. The Red Ribbon Army, led by Commander Red, is determined to collect the Dragon Balls to fulfill their leader’s wish for immortality and world domination[2].

Goku’s journey takes him through various challenging encounters with the army’s operatives, including Captain Silver, General Blue, and General White. One of the notable conflicts involves Goku’s battle against the Murasaki brothers, a set of quintuplets who use their numbers to confuse and attack Goku. However, Goku outwits them using his afterimage technique[1].

Another significant encounter is with Android Number 8, also known as Eighter, who was created by the Red Ribbon Army but refuses to follow their orders. Goku and Number 8 form an alliance to protect a village elder, showcasing the themes of friendship and moral integrity[1].

The arc also features Goku’s battle against Major Metallitron, a giant android that serves as a formidable foe. This battle is memorable for its comedic elements and the android’s relentless pursuit of Goku despite being severely damaged[3].

Throughout the arc, Goku faces numerous challenges and adversaries, each representing different aspects of the Red Ribbon Army’s military might and technological prowess. Ultimately, Goku’s determination and strength lead to the defeat of the Red Ribbon Army, although the legacy of this organization continues to influence the Dragon Ball series in subsequent arcs.

Themes and Symbolism

The Red Ribbon Army arc explores several central themes that contribute to the depth and resonance of the Dragon Ball series. One of the primary themes is the struggle between good and evil, as embodied by Goku’s heroic actions against the villainous Red Ribbon Army. This dichotomy highlights the importance of moral integrity and the consequences of seeking power through unethical means[2].

Another significant theme is the impact of militarism and the dangers of unchecked power. The Red Ribbon Army’s strict hierarchy and ruthless tactics serve as a critique of militaristic ideologies, emphasizing the importance of compassion and justice over brute force and domination[4].

The character of Android Number 8 also symbolizes the theme of individuality and free will. Despite being created for a specific purpose, Number 8 chooses not to follow the army’s orders, illustrating the potential for redemption and the importance of personal choice[1].

The snowy and mountainous settings where many of the battles take place symbolize isolation and the harsh realities of conflict. These environments add to the narrative’s tension and underscore the challenges Goku faces in his quest.

Cultural Impact

The Red Ribbon Army has had a significant cultural impact since its introduction. The arc marked a turning point in the Dragon Ball series, shifting from a more comedic tone to a darker, more action-oriented narrative. This change helped to establish Dragon Ball as a major player in the shonen genre, influencing numerous other anime and manga series[2].

The Red Ribbon Army’s characters, particularly the androids created by Doctor Gero, have become iconic in popular culture. The androids, especially Androids 17 and 18, have appeared in various forms of media, including video games, movies, and subsequent Dragon Ball series. Their influence can be seen in other anime and manga that feature powerful android or cyborg characters[2].

The Red Ribbon Army has also been referenced in other media, such as in parodies and homages in different anime and manga series. The army’s militaristic aesthetic and the concept of powerful androids have been particularly influential, reflecting the enduring appeal of these elements in science fiction and action genres.

Critical Reception

The Red Ribbon Army arc received positive reviews upon its release and continues to be well-regarded by critics and audiences. The shift to a darker tone was praised for adding depth to the series, and the introduction of more complex villains was seen as a welcome change from the earlier, more straightforward adversaries[3].

However, some critics have noted that the arc contains antiquated or politically incorrect attitudes towards real-world stereotypes and tropes, which were common in Japanese anime at the time. Despite these criticisms, the Red Ribbon Army remains a beloved and integral part of the Dragon Ball series[2].

The arc’s reception has also been influenced by its cultural context. The depiction of a militarized organization with a strict hierarchy resonated with audiences who were familiar with similar themes in real-world history, such as the Soviet Red Army, which is cited as an inspiration for the Red Ribbon Army[5].

Legacy

The Red Ribbon Army’s legacy in the Dragon Ball series is profound and enduring. The defeat of the Red Ribbon Army sets the stage for subsequent arcs, including the introduction of Doctor Gero’s androids in Dragon Ball Z, which becomes a central plot point in the series.

The Red Ribbon Army continues to inspire filmmakers, artists, and audiences. Its influence can be seen in various forms of media, from anime and manga to video games and movies. The concept of powerful androids and the themes of militarism and individuality remain relevant and compelling, ensuring the Red Ribbon Army’s place in cinematic history.

The recent Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero movie, which features the return of the Red Ribbon Army, underscores the enduring appeal of this faction. The movie’s success highlights the continued relevance of the Red Ribbon Army in modern anime and manga, demonstrating that the themes and characters introduced in this arc remain as captivating today as they were upon their initial release.