Episode 30: “I Choose You!” The Story of Scott and His Pokemon

For parents trying to make sense of this entire Pokemon thing, I have the information for you. The Pokemon brand was first introduced in Japan in 1996 as a video game for the Nintendo Game Boy. It quickly gained popularity and was later adapted into a television series, a trading card game, and a wide range of merchandise. The franchise has since become a global phenomenon, with millions of fans worldwide.

The Pokemon movies have played a significant role in the success of the franchise. Since the release of the first movie, “Pokemon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back” in 1998, the franchise has released 23 movies to date. These movies have not only been a source of entertainment for fans but have also helped to expand the Pokemon universe by introducing new characters, locations, and storylines.

Moreover, the Pokemon movies have also been a major source of revenue for the franchise. According to Box Office Mojo, the Pokemon movies have grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing animated film franchises of all time.

The History of Pokemon

The world of Pokemon is a cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts of millions of people around the world. The franchise has been around for over two decades, and its popularity has only continued to grow. In this section, we will explore the history of Pokemon, from its creation to its impact on pop culture.

The original concept for Pokemon was inspired by Tajiri’s childhood experiences catching insects and trading them with his friends. He wanted to create a game that would allow players to experience the same sense of adventure and camaraderie that he had felt as a child.

The first Pokemon game, Pokemon Red and Green, was released in Japan in 1996 for the Nintendo Game Boy. The game was an instant success, selling over 10 million copies in Japan alone. The game was later released in North America in 1998, where it also became a huge hit.

The gameplay of Pokemon was simple yet addictive. Players would travel through the game’s world, catching and training creatures known as Pokemon. They would then use their Pokemon to battle other trainers and their Pokemon. The game’s mechanics were easy to learn but difficult to master, making it appealing to both casual and hardcore gamers.

The success of the first Pokemon game led to the creation of a media franchise that included anime, manga, trading cards, and toys. The anime premiered in Japan in 1997, later dubbed into English, and aired in North America in 1998. The trading card game was also released in 1998 and quickly became a popular hobby for children and adults alike.

The success of Pokemon can be attributed to its broad appeal. The game was accessible to players of all ages and skill levels, and its cute and colorful creatures appealed to both boys and girls. The franchise also had a strong sense of community, with players trading Pokemon and battling each other in person and online.

Over the years, the Pokemon franchise has continued to expand. New games, anime, and merchandise are released regularly, keeping the franchise fresh and exciting for fans. The franchise has also expanded into new markets, such as mobile gaming and augmented reality.

In 2016, the mobile game Pokemon Go was released, which allowed players to catch Pokemon in the real world using their smartphones. The game was a massive success, with over 1 billion downloads worldwide. It was also credited with popularizing augmented reality technology.

Pokemon has had a significant impact on pop culture. The franchise has inspired countless imitators and has been referenced in movies, TV shows, and music. The popularity of the franchise has also led to the creation of a competitive scene, with players competing in tournaments for cash prizes.

The franchise’s impact can also be seen in the nostalgia it evokes in its fans. Many people who grew up with Pokemon have fond memories of playing the games, watching the anime, and collecting the trading cards. The franchise has become a cultural touchstone for a generation of fans.

In conclusion, the history of Pokemon is a testament to the power of a simple yet compelling idea. The franchise has captured the hearts of millions of people around the world and has become a cultural phenomenon. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable, and its legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.

Pokemon movies serve as an extension of the universe, allowing fans to experience the world of Pokemon in a new and exciting way. The movies introduce new characters, locations, and storylines that expand the lore of the franchise. Additionally, the movies allow fans to see their favorite Pokemon in action on the big screen, bringing them to life in a way that was impossible in games or anime.

Despite the mixed reception, the Pokemon movies have remained a beloved part of the franchise for many fans. The movies have provided countless hours of entertainment and have helped to shape the perception of the Pokemon brand in the eyes of fans and critics alike.

In conclusion, Pokemon movies have played a crucial role in the success of the franchise, serving as an extension of the Pokemon universe and providing fans with an opportunity to experience the world of Pokemon in a new and exciting way. The movies have significantly impacted the Pokemon brand, attracting new fans and generating billions of dollars in revenue. As the franchise continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the Pokemon movies continue to adapt and grow, providing fans with even more reasons to love the world of Pokemon.

Released in 1998, Pokemon: The First Movie follows the story of Ash Ketchum, Pikachu, and their friends as they travel to a remote island to participate in a Pokemon battle tournament. However, they soon find themselves caught in the middle of a battle between Mewtwo, a genetically engineered Pokemon, and its creator, Giovanni. Mewtwo, created to be the ultimate Pokemon, rebels against Giovanni and seeks revenge against humans for mistreating him. In the end, Ash and his friends must team up with Mewtwo and other Pokemon to stop the destruction caused by the battle.

Another significant theme in the movie is the importance of friendship and teamwork. Ash and his friends must work together to stop the destruction caused by the battle between Mewtwo and Giovanni. The movie emphasizes the value of cooperation and empathy in achieving a common goal.

Furthermore, Mewtwo’s character arc in the movie is significant because it emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding. As Mewtwo learns to understand the value of friendship and cooperation, he becomes more sympathetic and ultimately helps save the day.

In conclusion, Pokemon: The First Movie is a significant piece of media that raises important ethical questions about genetic engineering and the responsibility that comes with creating life in a lab. The movie’s themes of friendship and teamwork are also important, as they emphasize the value of cooperation in achieving a common goal. Mewtwo is a complex and significant character who represents the consequences of playing God and the importance of empathy and understanding.

Released in Japan in 1999, Pokemon: The Movie 2000 is the second film in the Pokemon franchise. The movie follows Ash Ketchum and his friends as they embark on a journey to the Orange Islands to participate in a festival celebrating the legendary Pokemon Lugia. However, they soon find themselves caught up in a battle between three powerful Pokemon – Lugia, Articuno, and Zapdos – who are fighting over control of the world’s climate. Ash and his friends must work together to restore balance to the world and prevent a catastrophic disaster.

Overall, Pokemon: The Movie 2000 is a classic example of the Pokemon franchise at its best. With engaging characters, a compelling storyline, and themes that resonate with audiences of all ages, it remains a beloved film for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

Pokemon 3: The Movie, also known as Spell of the Unown: Entei, is the third installment in the Pokemon film franchise. The movie follows the story of a young girl named Molly Hale, who is struggling with the loss of her father, a renowned Pokemon researcher. Molly discovers ancient tablets containing the power to summon the mythical Pokemon, the Unown. She unknowingly unleashes the Unown’s power, which creates a magical world for her to live in. In this world, she is reunited with her father, who is actually a manifestation of her own desires. However, the Unown’s power begins to spiral out of control, and Ash and his friends must team up with Molly’s mother to save her from the dangerous illusions created by the Unown.

Another theme in the movie is the importance of family. Molly’s desire for her father’s return is driven by her love for him and her desire to be with him again. However, she ultimately learns that her mother is just as important to her, and that she needs to value the family she has in the present.

The Unown are a unique and mysterious Pokemon species, and their role in Pokemon 3: The Movie is significant. They are often referred to as “mythical” Pokemon, due to their rarity and mysterious nature. In the movie, their power is shown to be almost limitless, as they are able to create entire worlds based on the desires of those around them. This power makes them both fascinating and dangerous, and their role in the movie highlights the importance of balance and control.

Pokemon 4Ever, also known as Pokemon 4: The Movie, is the fourth installment in the Pokemon movie franchise. The movie follows Ash, Pikachu, and their friends as they embark on a journey to help a wounded Pokemon in the forest. There, they encounter a time-traveling Pokemon named Celebi, who is being pursued by a villainous hunter named Iron-Masked Marauder. The group must protect Celebi and prevent Marauder from capturing it, all while navigating the complexities of time travel and facing unexpected challenges along the way.

One of the main themes in Pokemon 4Ever is the importance of protecting the environment. The movie takes place in a lush forest, and the characters are shown to have a deep respect for nature. As a guardian of the forest, Celebi embodies this theme and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural resources. Another prominent theme in the movie is the power of friendship. Ash and his friends work together to protect Celebi and defeat Marauder, demonstrating the strength of their bond and the importance of teamwork.

Celebi is one of the most beloved mythical Pokemon in the franchise, and its appearance in Pokemon 4Ever only added to its popularity. As a time-traveling Pokemon, Celebi represents the concept of time itself, and its ability to travel through different eras adds a unique and fascinating element to the Pokemon universe. Additionally, Celebi’s role as a forest protector highlights the importance of environmental conservation, a theme that has become increasingly relevant in recent years. Overall, Celebi’s significance as a mythical Pokemon cannot be overstated, and its appearance in Pokemon 4Ever is a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural significance.

Released in 2002, Pokemon Heroes is a Japanese animated film that takes place in the city of Alto Mare, an island city home to the legendary Pokemon, Latios and Latias. The story follows Ash, Pikachu, Misty, and Brock as they arrive in Alto Mare and become embroiled in a conflict between two groups of people vying for control of the city’s ancient artifacts. The film’s main antagonist is Annie, a member of the thieves’ guild who seeks to steal the Soul Dew, a powerful artifact that is said to be the source of the city’s prosperity. The film’s plot is complex and engaging, with well-developed characters and emotional depth.

At its core, Pokemon Heroes is a story about the importance of community and the power of empathy. The film’s portrayal of the city of Alto Mare as a close-knit community that is bound together by its shared history and culture is a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and belonging. Additionally, the film’s emphasis on the relationship between Latios and Latias and their connection to the city’s ancient artifacts speaks to the idea that our past and heritage are integral to who we are. The film also explores friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice themes, making it a poignant and meaningful addition to the Pokemon franchise.

Latios and Latias are among the franchise’s most iconic and beloved legendary Pokemon. Their unique abilities and empathetic personalities have made them fan favorites, and their role in Pokemon Heroes has only added to their significance. The film’s portrayal of Latios and Latias as protectors of their home city and its inhabitants has cemented their status as symbols of loyalty and courage within the Pokemon universe. Additionally, their connection to the Soul Dew and the city’s ancient artifacts has made them integral to the lore and mythology of the franchise. Overall, Latios and Latias are an important part of the Pokemon universe, and their role in Pokemon Heroes has only added to their legacy.

Released in 2003, Pokemon: Jirachi Wish Maker is a Japanese animated film that follows the adventures of Ash, Pikachu, and their friends as they encounter a mythical Pokemon named Jirachi. Jirachi is a wish-granting Pokemon that awakens once every thousand years. The plot revolves around the efforts of an evil magician named Butler, who wants to use Jirachi’s powers to awaken a legendary Pokemon and take over the world.

The film takes place in the magical land of Forina, where Ash and his friends encounter Jirachi. They soon realize that Jirachi is being pursued by Butler, who has sinister intentions for the wish-granting Pokemon. The group must cooperate to protect Jirachi and prevent Butler from executing his evil plans.

Butler, the film’s main antagonist, is a complex character driven by his desire for power and control. He is a skilled magician who has spent years studying the ancient texts that describe Jirachi’s powers.

The film also touches on the idea of destiny and mythical creatures like Jirachi’s role in shaping the world around us. Jirachi’s wish-granting abilities are a powerful symbol of hope and possibility, and the film encourages viewers to believe in the power of their own dreams and aspirations.

Jirachi is a fascinating addition to the Pokemon universe, and its status as a mythical Pokemon makes it all the more intriguing. Its wish-granting abilities and unique appearance have made it a fan favorite, and the character has appeared in a range of Pokemon media since its introduction in Pokemon: Jirachi Wish Maker.

However, Jirachi’s significance as a mythical Pokemon extends beyond its popularity among fans. The character represents the idea of hope and possibility, and its wish-granting abilities are a powerful symbol of the power of imagination and belief. Jirachi’s inclusion in the Pokemon franchise adds a layer of depth and complexity to the series, and its presence in Pokemon: Jirachi Wish Maker makes the film all the more memorable and impactful.

Pokemon: Destiny Deoxys, the seventh installment in the Pokemon movie franchise, was released in Japan in 2004. The movie takes place in the futuristic city of LaRousse, where Ash, Pikachu, and their friends have arrived to participate in the Battle Tower competition. However, they soon find themselves caught up in a battle between two Deoxys, a mythical Pokemon that has the ability to regenerate its body and transform into different forms.

The movie’s plot revolves around the conflict between the two Deoxys, one of which is trying to find its missing companion while the other is protecting the city from what it perceives as an invasion. The movie explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of communication, all of which are woven seamlessly into the story.

The characters in the movie are well-developed and add depth to the narrative. Ash and Pikachu, as always, are the main protagonists, but the movie also introduces new characters such as Tory, a young boy who is afraid of Pokemon due to a traumatic experience in his past, and Rafe, a trainer who is determined to catch the legendary Pokemon, Rayquaza.

Critics and fans alike praised the movie for its animation and emotional depth, making it a commercial success, grossing over $47 million worldwide. One of the most significant aspects of the movie is the introduction of Deoxys as a mythical Pokemon. Deoxys has the ability to regenerate its body and transform into different forms, making it a formidable opponent in battle. Its significance in the Pokemon universe is further highlighted by the fact that it is one of the few Pokemon that can be caught in its shiny form, which is a rare and highly sought-after variant.

In conclusion, Pokemon: Destiny Deoxys is a well-crafted movie that explores complex themes and introduces a significant new Pokemon to the franchise. Its success is a testament to the talent of the filmmakers and the enduring popularity of the Pokemon universe.

“Pokemon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew” is a Japanese animated film released in 2005. The story follows Ash, Pikachu, and their friends as they embark on a journey to the Tree of Beginning, a mystical place where Mew, the rare and powerful Pokemon, is said to reside. Along the way, they encounter Lucario, a legendary Pokemon who was trapped in a staff for centuries and is now released to aid them on their quest. However, Lucario is distrustful of humans and has a complicated past that slowly unfolds throughout the movie. As they approach the Tree of Beginning, they discover that a villainous group is also after Mew’s power, and they must work together to stop them and save the world from destruction.

The movie explores several themes, including trust, betrayal, and the importance of communication. Lucario’s past experiences have made him distrust humans, and he struggles to trust Ash and his friends. However, as the story progresses, he learns to open up and work with them, ultimately sacrificing himself to save them and the world. The theme of betrayal is also present, as Lucario’s backstory involves being betrayed by his former master. Finally, the importance of communication is highlighted, as the characters must work together and communicate effectively to achieve their goals.

Lucario is a unique and popular Pokemon known for its distinctive appearance and powerful aura abilities. Its inclusion as a central character in the film helped to solidify its status as a legendary Pokemon and increase its popularity among fans. Additionally, the movie’s exploration of Lucario’s backstory and personality added depth to the character and made it even more beloved by fans. Overall, “Pokemon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew” helped to cement Lucario’s place in the Pokemon franchise and further expand the world and lore of the series.

Released in Japan in 2006, Pokemon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea is the ninth Pokemon movie. The film follows Ash, Pikachu, and their friends as they meet a Pokemon Ranger named Jack Walker, who is on a mission to protect the egg of a mythical Pokemon named Manaphy. The egg is sought after by a pirate named Phantom, who wants to use its power to rule the world. The group embarks on a perilous journey to the underwater Temple of the Sea, where they encounter many challenges and battles before ultimately saving Manaphy and returning it to the ocean.

One of the primary themes of the movie is the importance of protecting the environment and the creatures that live within it. Manaphy is a mythical Pokemon with the power to control the seas, and the movie emphasizes the need to respect and care for the ocean and its inhabitants. Another theme is the power of friendship and working together towards a common goal. Ash and his friends team up with Jack and his Pokemon to protect Manaphy and defeat Phantom, demonstrating the strength that comes from cooperation and unity.

Released in 2007, The Rise of Darkrai is the tenth film in the Pokemon franchise. The movie follows Ash, Pikachu, and their friends as they arrive in Alamos Town, a beautiful and peaceful city known for its gardens and architecture. However, they soon discover that the city is in danger due to the clash between two legendary Pokemon, Dialga and Palkia. The battle between the two causes distortions in time and space, putting the entire city at risk. To make matters worse, a mysterious Pokemon named Darkrai is also involved in the conflict. The movie follows Ash and his friends as they try to uncover the truth behind the conflict and save Alamos Town from destruction.

The Rise of Darkrai explores several themes, including power’s consequences and friendship’s importance. The movie highlights how the pursuit of power and control can lead to destruction and chaos, as seen through the actions of Baron Alberto and Zero. On the other hand, the movie also emphasizes the importance of friendship and working together to overcome obstacles. Ash, his friends, and Alice and Tonio come together to save Alamos Town and stop the conflict between Dialga and Palkia. The movie also touches on the themes of loss and redemption, as Darkrai is portrayed as a Pokemon who has suffered and seeks to make amends for its past actions.

Darkrai is a unique and interesting addition to the Pokemon franchise, as it is one of the few legendary Pokemon that is associated with darkness and nightmares. In the movie, Darkrai is portrayed as a mysterious and powerful Pokemon with the ability to manipulate dreams and create illusions. The significance of Darkrai as a legendary Pokemon lies in its ability to challenge the traditional notions of what a legendary Pokemon should be. Its inclusion in the movie adds a new layer of complexity to the Pokemon universe and expands the possibilities for future stories and adventures. The popularity of Darkrai has also led to its inclusion in various Pokemon video games, further cementing its importance in the franchise.

Giratina and the Sky Warrior is the 11th movie in the Pokemon franchise. The movie follows Ash, Pikachu, and their friends as they encounter a new mythical Pokemon, Shaymin, who has the ability to change into its Sky Forme. The group also meets a researcher named Newton Graceland, who studies the Reverse World, a mirror dimension to the real world where Giratina, the legendary Pokemon, resides.

The plot thickens when a villainous group, Team Galactic, attempts to capture Shaymin and use its powers to take over the Reverse World. Giratina, who the disturbance caused by Team Galactic angers, chases after the group and ends up in the real world. The group must work together to stop Team Galactic and restore balance to both worlds.

One of the main themes in Giratina and the Sky Warrior is the importance of balance and harmony. The Reverse World and the real world are interconnected, and disturbances in one world can have consequences in the other. The movie also explores the idea of power and how it can be used for good or evil. Team Galactic seeks to use Shaymin’s powers for their own gain, while Ash and his friends use their powers to protect and restore balance.

Giratina is a unique legendary Pokemon that represents the concept of antimatter. Its ability to travel between the Reverse World and the real world makes it a powerful and mysterious creature. In the Pokemon franchise, legendary Pokemon often have significant roles in the overall narrative and are highly sought after by trainers. Giratina’s appearance in the movie adds to its significance as a legendary Pokemon and expands on its lore within the franchise. Overall, Giratina and the Sky Warrior is a movie that explores themes of balance, power, and the interconnectedness of different worlds, adding to the franchise’s overall lore.

Pokemon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages
Plot summary

In this movie, Ash and his friends encounter the mythical Pokemon Hoopa, who has the ability to summon other Pokemon and objects through its magical rings. However, they soon discover that Hoopa’s power has attracted the attention of a dangerous and powerful Pokemon named Arceus. The group must work together to stop Arceus and uncover the truth behind Hoopa’s past.

The main characters in this movie are Ash and his friends. They are joined by the mythical Pokemon Hoopa, who has the power to summon other Pokemon and objects through its magical rings, and the legendary Pokemon Arceus, who is central to the plot.

One of the main themes in this movie is the importance of confronting one’s past and taking responsibility for one’s actions. Hoopa must come to terms with its past mistakes and take responsibility for the consequences of its actions. Another theme is the power of friendship and cooperation, as Ash and his friends must work together with Hoopa to stop Arceus and save the world.

The movie received mixed reviews, with some praising the animation and action scenes, while others criticized the plot and pacing. However, it was still a commercial success, grossing over $30 million worldwide.

Hoopa is a unique and powerful Pokemon, with the ability to summon other Pokemon and objects through its magical rings. Its appearance in this movie helped further establish its significance in the Pokemon universe. Its backstory and role in the plot also added depth and complexity to the character.