Over the 26 years since its debut, Pokémon has inspired us, delighted us and left us heartbroken with its colorful collection of feature films. However, while all of them are thoroughly entertaining and nostalgic, there will always be one that stands above the rest.
Including the upcoming Pokémon movie (Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle) set for an October 8th release, there have now been 22 feature films and one live-action film. As many fans will collectively agree, every full-length feature has its individual pros and cons, but one in particular ticks all the right boxes: Pokémon: The First Movie.
Pokémon: The First Movie Is the Best Pokémon Movie
Nothing could ever rival the powerful bond between Ash and Pikachu, and this faces its most rigorous test at the hands of Mewtwo. Driven by a hatred for mankind and a powerful sense of indignation, the legendary Pokémon Mewtwo (cloned from Mew) seeks to eradicate humanity and enslave Pokémon in order to rule supreme.
Not only was it the first animated Pokémon movie, but also a box-office success. Critics and fans alike responded positively to its release, praising its emotional impact and its exploration of mature topics. Plenty of viewers sobbed when Pikachu mourned Ash, but aside from the final act tugging at our heartstrings, Pokémon: The First Movie has much to offer. It tells a tale of friendship and solidarity that appeals to all ages, and for all its inclusion of mature themes, it promotes kindness and forgiveness despite mistreatment; life lessons that everyone can learn from.
From a technological perspective, the graphics and animation are still commendable even for a 1998 release. Both trainer and Pokémon models have changed and improved over time, but something about the original designs just feels right.
As far as characters go, The First Movie includes the unmatched OG trio of Ash, Misty and Brock, and even Team Rocket gives us all the goofy antics and mischief that make it hard to hate them. The film also introduced Mew and Mewtwo, who quickly became a likable pair of legendaries. Needless to say, their final battle is a memorable one, providing one of the most iconic climaxes in Pokémon history.
Pokémon: The First Movie is an exceptional all-rounder in terms of all the themes for which Pokémon is known and adored. It provides the suspense, comedic relief and tear-jerking sentiment that its successors never quite seemed able to replicate. For millennial fans who need a dose of nostalgia or rookie trainers looking to start their Pokémon cinematic journey, Pokémon: The First Movie is available for rent or purchase on iTunes, Google Play, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
Honorable Mention - Pokémon The Movie: The Power Of Us
There could never be 22 films released without at least a handful of them competing for the top spot. For your consideration, here are some honorable mentions for other Pokémon feature films, starting with Pokémon The Movie: The Power Of Us.
Pokémon The Movie: The Power Of Us demonstrates how the selfless actions of an entire community can literally change the course of nature. Fula City was granted the power of the wind by the legendary Pokémon Lugia and hosts an annual wind festival to celebrate. However, the nearby forest is engulfed in flames due to the reckless antics of hunters searching for the mysterious Pokémon Zeraora. When Zeraora is endangered by poachers and the city is threatened by an Effect Spore (which can cause paralysis, poison or sleep), Ash and friends -- with help from Zeraora -- must rescue the people and Pokémon from harm.
The Power Of Us can be viewed on Netflix and is available to rent or purchase on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
Honorable Mention - Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea
For those who prefer a change of scenery, Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea is an aquatic escapade that focuses on the mythical Pokémon Manaphy as it journeys to Samiya, an undersea palace built by the People of the Water. Ash, May, Brock and Max are joined by a Pokémon ranger named Jack Walker. The group must ensure that Manaphy fulfills its destiny and avoids the clutches of The Phantom, a pirate who seeks to steal Manaphy and wield its power for himself.
The Temple of the Sea can be rented or purchased on iTunes, Amazon and Google Play.