Brief Summary
In this episode of Silph Radio, Nathan K. and Brianna Joy discuss the 20th Pokémon movie, "Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!" They explore the movie's narrative, its place in the Pokémon multiverse, and its emotional impact. They analyze the characters, story elements, and animation, while also discussing the movie's themes and its connection to the original anime series.
- The movie is a reboot that re-establishes Ash's journey with Pikachu, with changes in storyline and character personalities.
- The film emphasizes the relationship between Ash and Pikachu, setting it apart from previous Pokémon movies.
- The hosts discuss the emotional impact of the movie, particularly the scenes involving loss and friendship.
Intro
Nathan K. introduces the episode, mentioning that it will focus on the newest Pokémon movie, "Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!" Brianna Joy joins him to discuss the movie, which they both have strong feelings about. Nathan explains that the movie is a reboot, similar to what was done with Dragon Ball, retelling the beginning of Ash's journey but as its own story within the established Pokémon multiverse.
Initial Impressions and the Multiverse
Brianna expresses her love for the movie, stating it changed her life and made her cry every time she watched it. Nathan agrees that the movie rekindled feelings from 20 years ago. They discuss how the movie is a reboot that re-establishes Ash's journey and changes details, fitting into the established Pokémon multiverse. They also consider the idea that different episodes of the anime might take place in different universes, similar to theories about "Rick and Morty."
Narrative and Themes
The hosts discuss how the movie takes a new narrative road by focusing on the relationship between Ash and Pikachu, rather than just a legendary Pokémon causing chaos. They reference Roger Ebert's criticism of the first Pokémon movie, noting that it was simply about catching and battling Pokémon without a deeper story. They agree that while indulging in the Pokémon world is enjoyable, a good story should also have a meaningful narrative.
Movie Start and First Episode Similarities
The discussion moves to the beginning of the movie, highlighting the opening scene with a Pidgey and a Pokémon battle reminiscent of the first movie. They note the incredible animation and cinematic music. The first 10-15 minutes of the movie are similar to the first episode of the anime, with some differences like Professor Oak being more chill and Gary being cut out.
Character Cameos and Differences
They discuss the order of Pokémon choices being the same as in the show, but with glimpses of other palette trainers. They identify Marina from the episode "Bye Bye Psyduck" and Tierno from the X and Y series. They note that Tierno's choice of Charmander is different from his usual Squirtle in the X and Y series, suggesting these are cameos and not meant to be deeply analyzed.
Nostalgia and Opening Credits
The hosts describe the beginning of the movie as nostalgic, especially seeing Ash, Pikachu, and Caterpie together. They praise the opening song and the scenes of Ash and Pikachu's journey. The movie shows the minutiae of a Pokémon trainer's life, which is different from the usual format of meeting characters and progressing the plot.
Key Differences and Voice Acting
They discuss the scene with the Spearow and how Ash stands up for Pikachu, noting the differences in translation and voice acting compared to the original anime. They appreciate the current voice cast, especially Sarah Natochenny's improved emotional range as Ash. They also mention the absence of Misty and Brock in this movie.
Ho-Oh and Fan Theories
A significant difference in the movie is when Ash sees Ho-Oh and receives the rainbow wing. This leads to a discussion about a fan theory that Ho-Oh grants eternal happiness to those who see it, which may be why Ash is always on a journey. They also highlight the scene where Pikachu refuses to enter the Poké Ball to protect Ash.
Gym Battles and Foreshadowing
The movie skips to the third gym battle with Erika, which is a deliberate choice to focus on Ash and Pikachu's relationship. They note the rainbow badge and its foreshadowing of Ash being the rainbow hero. Brianna points out the significance of the rainbow theme, having watched the movie multiple times.
Pokemon Center and New Companions
The scene cuts to a Pokémon Center in the forest, where Ash talks to his mom. They observe that Ash seems ruder to his mom in the movie compared to the anime. They also introduce Ash's new companions, Verity and Sorrel, and praise the aesthetics of the Pokémon Center.
Entei Appearance and Team Rocket
A trainer runs into the Pokémon Center, reporting an encounter with Entei. The hosts appreciate how the movie portrays legendaries as massive, terrifying, and strong. Team Rocket appears as comedic relief, with Jessie's one-liners being a highlight. They follow Ash to find legendaries, which makes more sense than constantly chasing Pikachu.
Trainer Battles and Disturbances
Verity and Ash decide to battle, disturbing a sleeping Onix. This leads to a discussion about the overlooked moments in a trainer's journey, such as encountering aggressive wild Pokémon. They joke about Ash's tendency to try to stop Pokémon by yelling.
Cross and Abandoned Charmander
Ash and Verity stumble upon an abandoned Charmander and encounter Cross, a new character. Cross kicks the Charmander, creating a similar emotional impact as in the original anime. The hosts compare Cross to Damien, noting that Cross is a cooler character design.
Cross's Philosophy and Flame Retardant Clothing
Cross's mean-spirited philosophy about weak Pokémon is contrasted with Ash's belief in friendship. They discuss the logistics of Ash carrying Charmander under his jacket in the rain, speculating about flame-retardant clothing in the Pokémon world.
Sorrel's Introduction and Entei's Protection
Ash and Verity take Charmander to a cave where they meet Sorrel, who is sarcastic and knowledgeable. Entei leads other Pokémon into the cave for shelter, acting as a guardian of the forest. The hosts appreciate this portrayal of a mystical Pokémon protecting smaller creatures.
Legendary Pokemon Story
Sorrel tells the story of Entei, Raikou, and Suicune, explaining that they represent the flames, thunder, and rain from the tower that burned down. The hosts find this interpretation fascinating. Ash shows them the rainbow wing, and they decide to travel together.
Adventure Montage and Verity's Backstory
A montage shows their adventures and Pokémon evolving. Verity is seen looking at a photo of a woman with a Piplup, speculated to be Cynthia, the champion of Sinnoh. Verity reveals that her mom is a good Pokémon trainer, but she feels inadequate.
Informal Battles and Charmeleon Evolution
The group arrives at an arena for informal Pokémon battles. Ash battles a Jigglypuff trainer, and his Charmander evolves into Charmeleon. They note that this Charmeleon is more loving than Ash's original one, possibly because it wasn't obtained from another trainer.
Library Scene and Cross's Appearance
In a library, Sorrel reads about the rainbow hero, learning that the rainbow wing turns black if handled by someone with an evil heart. Cross is seen listening in. The next scene shows Pikachu battling a Snorlax, which is a humorous visual.
Ash vs. Cross Battle
Ash's next challenger is Cross, and they discuss the symbolism of their names. Cross uses his Incineroar, and Charmeleon struggles to use Flamethrower. Sorrel explains that Charmeleon's powers aren't ready yet, which is a rare acknowledgment of Pokémon needing time to adjust to new evolutions.
Aftermath of the Battle and Ash's Frustration
Ash loses the battle, and Cross taunts him. Ash becomes frustrated and walks away from his friends, saying Pikachu would have won. He goes into the forest, and Pikachu leaves him. Ash sits against a tree, questioning if he is the rainbow hero.
Dream Sequence
Ash falls asleep and has a dream where Pokémon don't exist. He is a regular student, and Agatha is his teacher. He sees a yellow blob and Ho-Oh as an airplane. This dream makes him realize the importance of Pokémon in his life.
Dream Reflection and Sorrel's Story
Ash wakes up crying and asks his friends what's out there. He wants to see the world with his buddy. Pikachu appears, and Ash chases after him. Sorrel then tells a story about a Luxray that died protecting him, which is another emotional moment.
Butterfree Goodbye
The group is attacked by a primate, and Metapod evolves into Butterfree. They see a pink Butterfree, leading to Ash releasing his Butterfree. This scene is emotional, but the hosts felt it was rushed.
Mountain Journey and Bonji
The group sees Raikou briefly and then heads to the mountains. They meet Bonji, a researcher wearing Red's hat. They speculate about Bonji's identity and his connection to Red.
Bonji's Role and Mountain Ascent
Bonji explains that wild Pokémon gather on the mountain to receive power from Ho-Oh. He mentions that the rainbow wing guides them and that they might have a guide from the shadows, referring to Marshadow.
Cross's Challenge and Charizard's Evolution
As Ash tries to place the rainbow wing on the rock, Cross appears and challenges him. Charmeleon evolves into Charizard, and they have an epic battle. Ash defeats Cross, but Cross questions why Ash gets the rainbow wing.
Rainbow Wing Turns Black and Marshadow's Appearance
Cross touches the rainbow wing, and it turns black. Marshadow appears, and Bonji's explanations about Marshadow's role are confusing. Marshadow possesses Pokémon, and the hosts question its motives.
Pikachu Talking
Marshadow attacks Ash and Pikachu. Ash steps in to protect Pikachu, and they both get beaten. Pikachu speaks, saying it always wants to be with Ash. The hosts discuss the controversy surrounding this scene, with Brianna defending it as a representation of their deep connection, while Nathan finds it unnecessary and weird.
Aftermath and End Credits
Pikachu goes into its Poké Ball, and Ash dies protecting it. Pikachu cries, holding Ash's hat. Ash is brought back to life, and he and Pikachu run together. The movie ends with Ash and his friends parting ways, and the end credits show snippets from each of the movies and Ash's companions.
Final Verdict
Brianna praises the movie's visuals and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder. However, she notes that the first half was better written than the last half. Nathan agrees, adding that the movie is heavily tied to marketing and that Marshadow's purpose was unclear. Despite its flaws, they both enjoyed watching the movie.
