With the release of Pokémon the Movie 20: I Choose You! coming to Malaysian shores on the 7th of December 2017, this serves as a reminder of the many Pokémon movies that have been released since 1998. Since we’re missing the early days of Pokémon, let’s look back at Pokémon’s history. Here we list our 3 most nostalgic Pokémon movies of all time.
1. Pokémon: The First Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back (1998)
As this was the very first movie to be released in the Pokémon franchise, I won’t be surprised if most fans have already forgotten what this movie was all about. If a scene of Pikachu crying over Ash (who was turned to stone) is what pops in your head, you have the right movie in mind! Despite the the fact that it has been more than a decade since I last watched the Pokémon: the First Movie, that particular scene between Ash and Pikachu is still vivid and etched in my memory even till now. This movie may not be the best among the rest, but it’s definitely one of the most memorable with its extremely tear-jerking moments.
2. Pokémon: The Movie 2000: Power of One (1999)
Released in 1999, Pokémon: The Movie 2000 – also known as the Power of One – is easily one of the best Pokémon movies out there! Despite the fact that it’s an older film, it is really well made with cool action, a great storyline and plenty of humour. There are many elements in the movie that sets itself apart from the other Pokémon movies with one example being that it was the very FIRST (and only) Pokémon movie which featured Ash working together with our favourite villains, Team Rocket. Even till this day, the image of the intense battles between the legendary birds and the teamwork between Ash and Team Rocket is unforgettable. Good times, good times…
3. Pokémon 3: The Movie: Entei – Spell of the Unown (2000)
Delving into the mysterious Pokémon that is the Unown (Pokémon that look like letters), this film allows us to discover and understand just what exactly is the Unown. Compared to the first two movies, Pokémon 3: Entei – Spell of the Unown as a whole is very heavy emotionally as it deals with feelings and brings in real life issues that people struggle with in their daily lives. For example, the film brought in Ash’s mother (Delia) as a major character which allows the movie to delve into family bonds, which is frankly pretty rare. This movie just showcases the Pokémon franchise’s ability to deliver emotionally powerful stories, instead of the usual fun and laughter. Truly a masterpiece.
With that, here are my 3 most nostalgic Pokémon movie picks! Even though it’s been ages since I last watched the movies, I still remember them as if it was just yesterday. I only have fond memories for the Pokémon movies (well, for the franchise in general) and I’m very excited for the upcoming premier of the 20th movie, Pokémon: I Choose You! on the 7th December 2017. Mark the date down and do let us know what were your favourite/nostalgic Pokémon movies in the comments section below!