(originally titled Dragon Ball Z: Return My Gohan!! ) is the fourth film in the Dragon Ball franchise and the first to carry the "Z" moniker. Released in Japan on July 15, 1989 , it serves as a stylistic bridge between the original series and the higher-stakes action of Dragon Ball Z . Plot Summary
: Uniquely, it is the only film to receive a direct follow-up arc in the anime series. The Garlic Jr. Saga (episodes 108–117) takes place between the Frieza and Android Sagas, featuring Garlic Jr.’s escape from the void. Dragon Ball Z: The Movie - Dead Zone(1989)
: In a desperate final move, Garlic Jr. opens the Dead Zone , a dimensional void intended to suck in and trap his enemies forever. (originally titled Dragon Ball Z: Return My Gohan