Bardock - The Father of Goku is actually a DBZ movie that you will hear me say is good, but don't get too use to hearing me say things like that. The biggest problem that I have with DBZ is its redundancy. This movie however, doesn't follow the classic trend which is that recycled and disturbing pattern that folks like myself have grown to hate. Another problem with the movies is the lack of main storyline continuity. Most of the movies appear to exist outside of the storyline. This doesn't appear to be the case with this movie, as it seems more to be a side story or a prequel to the Frieza Saga.
This movie has an overall different feel. The dark tone is a nice change from the campy attitude of the series. It doesn't feel like DBZ in the opening scenes, and at times, it doesn't feel like it at all. The movie opens up with a decent battle involving the Saiyans in great ape form demolishing an entire race. The movie keeps the same violent tone through out and the comedy is kept rather low.
Surprisingly, the action scenes are minimal, but what little bit is here can be fairly entertaining. The battles aren't very long and they don't contain the re-used cel formula simulating quick combat. Therefore, the animation is decent. The artwork is about on the same level as the TV series, with plenty of reused models from the series. The rock soundtrack does a great job adding a spark to the action scenes. In fact, the overall BGM compliments the mood very well on all levels.
The most interesting part of this movie would be the character development of Bardock. For a DBZ movie, you will never, ever, see character development like this. The change that Bardock goes through is very believable. The ability to see into his future was a well used plot device, which never seemed forced and I believe it was added strength to the ending. It's amazing really, but after re-watching the movie and thinking about it, this single character proved to be more interesting than quite possibly all of DBZ's bloated up cast.
The story adds a good amount of background but the only problem is that it all feels unnecessary. This entire situation was covered in the Frieza Saga, to include all loose ends were tied up there. I don't believe this movie will reveal anything new to someone whom has seen the series; but to a casual fan, perhaps this could force them into giving the series a try, since some of the main story is delivered.
In closing, I ONLY recommend this movie to fans of the series. New fans whom are very curious on learning about DBZ are better off coming into the series, or beginning with Dragon Ball; but be warned, coming into DBZ in general will be terribly time consuming and there are plenty of classic anime titles to surf through that I feel are more rewarding.
Highs: Doesn't follow normal DBZ pattern, dark tone, soundtrack
Lows: Could have used more action, kind of unnecessary