First and foremost, if you are taking a child to this film, but don’t know what the actual Pokémon names are, not to worry. Through my whole viewing of the film, every child in my vicinity called out each Pokémon as they appeared on screen. This gave me some information I didn’t have and also showed me the love this franchise has created over the years.
The story follows a young Tim Goodman (Justice Smith) that sets off to visit the metropolis that is Ryme city under unfortunate circumstances. Finding out his fathers death may have been more than an accident, he weighs the options of delving deep or leaving town. Fate’s hand takes the wheel though, and it is yellow, soft and fuzzy and connected to a Pikachu (Voiced by Ryan Reynolds). Somehow, Tim can understand this Pokemon as they set off together to find the truth.
This film is a fun side story in the realm of Pokémon. In a world with most stories revolving around fighting and hunting down rare Pokémon, this one side-steps all of the fanatics and extended content that hardcore lovers of the franchise would expect. Another added bonus, is that with a story written in a large city where Pokémon run free, fans will get to see a multitude of types and classes. (ergo young children yelling out names.)
And while it is made for fans, the effects and jokes (mainly voiced by Ryan Reynolds) do hit home for the average viewer. You might not get the same understanding, but you’ll still be able to watch and enjoy.
Grade: B
MPAA Rating: PG
Running Time: 1hr 44m
Review
Rating
Review of Pokemon Detective Pikachu
A fun side story in the Pokémon universe that doesn't require too much backstory knowledge and doesn't redefine the world of battle and trainers.