Why Is The Great Saiyaman a Comic Book Homage to Spider-Man?
In the world of Dragon Ball - those who have been watching this iconic Anime series since its early beginnings in the late 1980s and have grown alongside Goku as he’s been through multiple battles. Gohan has taken on several significant forms. These include his “Beast Form" - but also his persona as the “Great Saiyaman”.
Gohan’s appearance as the Great Saiyaman is often considered to have several, major similarities to Spider-Man, specifically Peter Parker, with how he was introduced in Amazing Fantasy #15 as well as a reference point that celebrates Spider-Man’s overall style. Those who know this story and Amazing Fantasy #15 cover, often make a direct correlation between this art piece, where a young man becomes the personification of the "Superhero" but it's often in a very unassuming and unexpected form that was a shock, but in many ways has also given him an almost iconic status, with both heroes often going through periods of doubt, struggle - and even hardship.
How Is Dragon Ball Like Marvel Comics?
While Dragon Ball and Marvel Comics have vast differences: They're both recognized for their large presence - those audiences that are captivated by how these two worlds are portrayed.
Those who know Dragon Ball - one of the largest, most notable Anime franchises will recognize the iconic Goku and the universe, as well as the events of the series and how its influence has been seen globally. In the world of Marvel Comics - one of the world's most powerful universes - it is recognized as being one of the biggest media properties. These worlds feature strong characters such as Spider-Man (known for having incredible powers) and Gohan who, with Dragon Ball Super's latest iteration, and the Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero release (featuring the "Beast" transformation) have given viewers more insights and powerful scenes - and often showcase characters with unique superhuman powers.
Is Gohan an Anime Version of Spider-Man?
Although both these heroes represent incredible powers - it is important to distinguish their core beliefs and philosophies. Those in Dragon Ball will be reminded how much the characters - particularly Gohan, the son of Goku, is dedicated to learning. Those who watch Dragon Ball Z will also notice how his strengths grow, in many instances, going beyond his abilities and skills. For Gohan, it’s about reaching the peak of those capabilities that he has in an effort to protect the world, which was an inspiring arc. It's not the same with Spider-Man (who, while a young man - is also faced with some very serious situations, even death) and has a sense of self-awareness and those trials and difficulties that come from being a teenager - those same themes and challenges that Peter Parker often goes through. It serves as an inspiring aspect of the character.
Those who enjoy Spider-Man movies are drawn into the darker aspects - such as his struggles with identity as well as his responsibility - but Dragon Ball often revolves around powerful beings that fight to protect the universe and often face unspeakable, destructive enemies.
Does Gohan Become a Super Hero?
When he takes on the role of the Great Saiyaman, it's a decision that comes about as he makes a choice to help others, but the circumstances around his character. One might think: He’s always going to be there - at any moment, especially as he comes from one of the Dragon Ball Z family’s lineage of powerful characters, such as his father Goku.
Even though Dragon Ball fans know about his Gohan Beast Form and that Gohan (after spending several years at a university - trying to find his place in the world) does return to his heroic roots as he takes on this alter ego as the Great Saiyaman. This makes a great addition to the series - those watching the animated series, know that Gohan has the power, the determination, and an ability to step up to become an icon, but in this instance, a bit of a comical superhero who is able to use his abilities for good in an entertaining style that was influenced by his love of those superhero movies, specifically those that feature Spider-Man powers.
What Does Gohan Have in Common with Spider-Man?
Gohan and Spider-Man have become symbols of powerful heroes in their respective universes as they each face an array of foes, challenges, and battles that shape their personalities. The connection they have in some regards. This could be described as how both heroes are underdogs who are able to take on some of the most formidable foes and still prevail, despite facing various hardships in their lives, particularly given the sacrifices they are forced to make in order to protect their family, loved ones, and friends - as well as the people they care about most - all of which add an element of drama that makes them stand out - showing their desire to continue to improve, especially since each character’s world requires constant vigilance in fighting against some of the most dangerous beings in the universe.
When looking at both characters, it's very easy to recognize the core essence of both. This is particularly noticeable in how their roles play out as Superheroes in their universe. Both men were able to find their place - but with a distinct and unique flavor - that makes their characters iconic as well as unforgettable.
Why Would a Dragon Ball Spider-Man Crossover Work?
A Dragon Ball Spider-Man crossover would serve as a great story, especially since both franchises represent those powers and those larger-than-life events that have impacted the hearts and minds of those watching them for several decades.
One can only imagine those moments that would be created when you have Spider-Man webbing and those classic Spider-Man enemies facing off against Dragon Ball characters like Gohan. However, the production is very different: Dragon Ball has had an iconic impact in anime - with Dragon Ball anime, Dragon Ball video games, and Dragon Ball manga giving the story its worldwide appeal, and, on the other side: Spider-Man is one of Marvel Comics’ most recognized heroes with Spider-Man movies, Spider-Man TV shows , and a wealth of merchandise. These franchises are often represented as having such a vast influence over those interested in pop-culture, as the two worlds are combined to tell new stories.
What is the Popularity of Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero?
Dragon Ball Super, the newest edition to a series that continues to deliver, has captured audiences - but Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero stands out as it gives us more to ponder and explore the power that these heroes wield as they fight to keep the galaxy safe from destruction - especially given Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero art that showcases how they become the most powerful.
For those fans of Dragon Ball Z Fanart, as well as the iconic Dragon Ball manga, and the anime - these new interpretations give fans more reasons to look forward to future projects, especially as they watch the Gohan Beast Form (an incredible transformation that allows him to unleash tremendous power) as well as how the world is affected by the latest iterations of Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero fanart.
How Has Spider-Man's Impact Spread Throughout Culture?
Since Spider-Man’s first appearance in 1962 (his origins stem from the comics and are well-known to those who enjoy Spider-Man comics) fans have witnessed a huge and transformative cultural impact.
The world of Spider-Man (the legacy of Peter Parker - has impacted all types of media: Spider-Man video games, Spider-Man merchandise and those who are fans - can recognize that Spider-Man culture - those iconic elements and features of the hero - have all contributed to a remarkable story - one that continuously delivers across several installments. From a superhero perspective - those fans will also recognize how this franchise has given us those iconic villains like Green Goblin or Doc Ock (one of those Spider-Man enemies - each adding a significant moment and dimension to Spider-Man's story).