Master Muten, also known as the Turtle Hermit, is an elderly martial arts master who appears in Dragon Ball Movie 3: Mystical Adventure as the teacher of Son Goku and Krillin. His background is that of an ancient and highly skilled fighter who has trained many disciples over centuries, including Grandpa Gohan and the Ox-King. In this movie, he lives on a small island at Kame House with his companions and continues to dedicate himself to passing on his knowledge.

His personality is a blend of wisdom and eccentricity. He is often portrayed as a perverted old man who is easily distracted by attractive women, yet beneath this comedic flaw lies a profound understanding of martial arts and a genuine care for his students. He can be playful and mischievous but also serious and insightful when the situation demands it. His motivations in the film are straightforward: he has successfully completed the training of Goku and Krillin, and he encourages them to test their skills by participating in the World Martial Arts Tournament held in the country of Mifan. He takes pride in their growth and believes they are ready for real combat experience.

Within the story, Master Muten’s role is confined to the opening segment. He is the catalyst for the heroes’ journey: he announces the tournament, bids them farewell, and does not accompany them further. His part is brief but essential, as it establishes the current skill level of the main characters and sets the plot in motion. His key relationships in this film are with his two students, Goku and Krillin, whom he has trained rigorously. He also shares his home with the shapeshifter Oolong and the sea turtle Umigame, though their interactions are minor.

There is no significant character development for Master Muten in Mystical Adventure, as the film’s focus shifts entirely to Goku and Krillin’s adventure in Mifan. He remains a static figure, exhibiting the same traits seen throughout the series. His notable abilities include mastery of the Kamehameha wave, a powerful energy attack he invented, as well as superhuman strength, speed, and durability despite his aged appearance. He is also capable of entering a bulked-up state called Max Power, which greatly amplifies his physical capabilities and Ki output, though this form is not shown in this particular movie. Overall, Master Muten serves as the archetypal wise old master whose primary function in the film is to launch the protagonists into their next challenge.