- Airing Date : July 13, 2018
- Studios : OLM, Wit Studio
Contains Spoilers
Pokémon the Movie: Everyone’s Story (BRIEF) Introduction
Pokemon the Movie: Everyone's Story was a departure from the usual movies that come out of this franchise. Though Satoshi (Ash Ketchum) is featured in this film, he doesn't have a large role narrative in the grand scheme of things. Instead, this film has about five smaller stories that all tie-in to the Wind Festival of Fura City, of which Satoshi attends because he happens to be visiting the town during the festivities. Almost every shot is filled with pokémon of all types and sizes. However, the two advertised throughout the promotional materials are Lugia and Zeraora. One plays a much more prominent role than the other, but I'll get into that later.
This movie was pleasantly surprising because even though it was aimed at a young audience, there some underlying tones and themes that are a bit more mature and older audiences could appreciate as well. We noticed that some other reviewers think that Satoshi was unnecessary in this film and that he and Pikachu could have been omitted altogether. But from our viewing, we noticed that the children in the audience were cheering whenever these two were on-screen or they repeated Pikachu's lines whenever he spoke. So we understand why they were included in the film. Overall, it was entertaining and a pleasant viewing experience, but really it just served to hype audiences up for next year's Mewtwo Strikes Back Evolution!
What We Liked About Pokémon the Movie: Everyone’s Story
The animation and artwork in this movie were really vibrant and clean. The studio went to great length to create an atmosphere that was bright and filled with energy. Children and pokémon filled every scene. Satoshi's character design looked much better than he did in his latest anime representation. Zeraora isn't a particularly unique looking pokémon or outstanding in any specific way. But in the film, he does have character and an aura of strength and resilience. All of the colors, the backgrounds, and various pokémon sprinkled throughout further emphasized that the Wind Festival was a time of rejoicing for the townspeople. They were anticipating the return of Lugia and were celebrating their town's history.
Getting back to Zeraora, he played a large part in our enjoyment of this movie. His backstory with the townspeople and fire in the forest was moving. It took him a long time to trust people again, but Largo (a determined young girl who protects the forest) and Satoshi were just the people to do it. Their caring hearts and self-sacrifice brought him out of hiding and showed him that though people have frightened creatures capable of great selfishness, they are also capable of noble acts of kindness and bravery. He is a strong silent pokémon who inspires others through his actions. Our only gripe is that we forgot to bring our 2DS XL into the theater so we were unable to download him into our Ultra Moon save file! Doh!
Why You Should Watch Pokémon the Movie: Everyone’s Story
1. It’s Lighthearted
Definitely check out Everyone's Story if you're looking for a lighthearted story containing our favorite lovable creatures. Expect to see a ton of small pokémon and a multitude of characters having their own personal stories and motivations for attending the Wind Festival. Family, self-confidence, and honesty are all morals brought up by the smaller narratives and character interactions throughout this movie.
2. Zeraora
Of course, check out the movie if you're interested in obtaining Zeraora (he'll probably be available in western countries at the same time the film is released there). More than that, witness the character arc of a pokémon that was betrayed by the people of his own community. He goes into seclusion. And eventually re-emerges as the town's savior and inspires others to stand up and protect what they love. He has a particularly emotional scene where he saves Largo from a large structure that's about to fall right on top of her.
Why You Should Skip Pokémon the Movie: Everyone’s Story
1. Trainer Battles
Don't watch this film if you're looking forward to some epic pokémon battles between trainers where their pride and prizes are on the line. This isn't that kind of film. There are a few pokémon fights sprinkled throughout, but they aren't highlights of Everyone's Story. As the title suggests, people and their connections with pokémon are what are being explored this time around. Don't expect to see strategic fights with rare pokémon.
2. Lugia
Perhaps you're a big fan of Lugia so you want to see your favorite legendary pokémon in action. We wouldn't blame you for anticipating Lugia's huge screen presence since he was displayed on promotional posters and trailers, but he has very little screen time. He only shows up at the very end to bless the town with his graceful presence and rejuvenating wind ability. He's a major historical figure for the town's establishment, but he plays a minor role in this movie.
Final Thoughts
This was a feel-good type of movie that children would enjoy seeing with their parents or siblings would enjoy watching together. There aren't any epic fights to be seen here. But the post-credits teaser reassures us that next year fans will get something more ambitious and grand in Mewtwo Strikes Back Evolution. So stay tuned for more news about that upcoming movie!
Thanks again for reading our thoughts on Pokémon the Movie: Everyone's Story. We hope this was informative for you. As always, have a great day and we'll see you in the next one!
Author: Javier Garcia