The Last Tavern: Where did the idea for the Dragon Ball lifestyle website come from ?
Tomasz Talarek: The idea for the website came alone. I actually did it instinctively. As a longtime fan of the dragon ball series, I wanted to show Dragon Ball in a whole new light. By respecting each other, I want to create a family place for all fans. Like most of us, I was excited about the adventures of Goku and the company, and through the website I wanted to share my insights with other fans and share the collected information. Another reason for establishing Dragon Ball as a lifestyle was the desire to show the universe of dragon balls to the younger generation, so that they would feel like us years ago with curiosity watching subsequent episodes. I also wanted them to have joy and fun from it.
OT: You are known as Goku in the fandom . Why did you choose the name of the main character of the Dragon Ball series ?
TT: I chose this name because I always wanted to be like him – calm, honest, have a noble heart. I have always liked these traits in the character of Goku . This character taught me that you should always fight for yours. Even if theoretically there is no chance of getting out of the situation, stubbornness and persistence will always be rewarded – self-confidence works miracles. I have been guided by Goku’s values all my life and that gives me strength. I think that by the way I should also tell you why these values are so important to me. I had a difficult childhood. I was born with a disease that is having a huge impact on my life. This is cerebral palsy. I am in a wheelchair. I struggle with a heavy burden on my shoulders. This is why I am following my example in life by imitating Goku. He gives me strength always even now. Goku is a role model for me. I took his pseudonym to overcome my own limitations in this relentless struggle called life.
OT: Now let’s talk about the fandom itself. More than 20 years of dragon balls in the country on the Vistula are a whole generation. Who are the fans of the series?
TT: That’s a very difficult question. In my opinion, anyone can be a fan. There are no restrictions. Fans of the series are people who are extremely devoted to the series. Working on the fanpage, I learned one thing – you never know what the fans will be able to come up with. Contrary to appearances, it is a very demanding community that loves the DB universe with all its heart. Despite the fact that quite often there are disputes about which series is better, one thing can be sure – the fans of this series are proud people, faithful to their ideals. I hope that love for this world will always unite us, never divide us.
OT: We are shortly after the release of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot , the Dragon Ball Super series has recently ended and the movie Dragon Ball Super: Broly turned out to be a box office hit. In addition, we can follow the Super Dragon Ball Heroes series , which promotes the game of the same title. A bit has been happening lately, right?
TT: Yes, a lot is happening and I am very happy about it, because I can continue – with pleasure – to share my beloved world with you. The universe is doing really well. I’m glad he’s still alive. A few years ago we were waiting with longing for the next series from the dragon world. We got the movie Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods , and then the Super series , which caused quite a stir and excitement. I admit that not all elements of the series look the way I wanted, but it is understandable – a new generation, new trends. Everyone will find something for himself. Dragon Ball’s brand is huge. There is nothing left for us to do but follow her development with flushed face.
OT: Akira Toriyama has returned to creating the Dragon Ball Super manga . Fans can now read the Saga of the Fugitive Galactic Patrol Prisoner . Can you say more about this series?
TT: The saga of the escaped prisoner of the Galactic Patrol is something new in this universe, as we can see all the heroes working together against the new threat that is Moro . So far, all series have been dedicated to Goku or Vegeta . However, from the starting saga, more time was devoted to the side characters, i.e. the Z warriors . I am curious to see what the future holds, but I am sure of one thing – this saga will have an interesting ending. It is impossible to predict who will win. All I can do is encourage you to read the manga on the Internet or buy it in books. I can’t say too much because it would ruin your fun. Take my word for it – it’s worth following the manga.
OT: What shaped Tomasz Talarek’s taste? Can you recommend several series?
TT: Of course I can recommend it even though my main activity is Dragon Ball . My taste was shaped in the 90s. I am a fan of older animations because of the more elaborate plot of the characters and the values conveyed. The first anime that I would like to recommend to you is Yu yu Hakusho , made in 1992. If you like Yokai anime, the world of demons, a variety of characters, unusual solutions, actions and great fights, I can recommend this title to you with a clear conscience. The second anime is a comedy classic – the short series Ova . Golden boyfrom 1995. The humor in this series may not suit everyone. Kintaro Oe, the main character, is looking for a part-time job. He travels by bicycle. Oe gets a job where there are only women. As you can imagine, Kintaro must try to control his desires, which manifests itself in various funny situations. The story of the Golden Boy teaches us that despite the flaws, everyone is able to be captivated. It’s very easy to fall in love with someone, so be careful! The third anime is Shaman King . I doubt that this anime should be presented ( it was broadcast on Polish TV). The story of Yo and his guardian spirit of AmidamarIt made such a strong impression on me that as a child I would often sit in front of the TV in the evening and watch every episode. The king of shamans proves that sometimes it is enough to be relaxed in life and you can achieve anything.
OT: What are the next plans? Will you reveal the secret and tell us what we can expect in the near future?
TT: I don’t have any major plans. I will try to do what I am doing and the time for the rest will come. The only thing I can promise is that I will continue to offer all of you advice and help in our beloved dragon world.
Thank you very much to Tomasz Talarek for the interview. We wish you continued success in the development of the Dragon Ball fandom and website