Earlier today on our Instagram, we posted the picture above.
This is a screenshot from the third version of the first opening animation for Dragon Ball Z, “CHA-LA HEAD-CHA-LA”. This opening premiered in episode 118, which is near the start of the Androids/Cell arc, and continues through episode 199.
In the comments, the question “whose hand is this?” sparked a debate in which no one could prove their opinion with a source, other than myself, and the rest of the Dragon Ball Z Experts.
If you think this hand is Goku’s, you are incorrect.
The renowned Dragon Ball fansite Kanzenshuu’s Theme Guide for this particular opening theme pretty much gives the identity of the owner of this hand indirectly.
[…] including the fiery Saiyans being replaced with some foreshadowing Doctor Gero images[.]
Here is the Doctor Gero scene. The construction of the hand follows immidiately.
(Source: Japanese version three opening theme found in Dragon Ball Z – Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan)
If you compare the earlier two openings, you’ll see that the same length of the above scene is shown as one continuous strand of footage. That makes the Gero/Hand scene one scene as well, not separate.
(Source: “Remastered” version one opening found in Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone)
(Source: Version two opening found in Dragon Ball Z: The World’s Strongest)
Because this is one scene, and it is foreshadowing, we have come to the conclusion that the hand in the picture we have posted is not Goku’s, but of an Android created by Dr. Gero.
Hopefully I have been able to shed some light on this debate. If you have any further questions, leave a comment, or head over to my FAQ page!
David (Dragon Ball Eternity) DBZE