Watching the Pokémon movies in order can seem daunting, but it’s well worth the effort to appreciate the full scope of this cinematic adventure. The best approach is to watch them chronologically based on their original release date, aligning with the storylines of the corresponding anime series. This ensures you experience the characters’ arcs and the world’s evolution as intended, enhancing your overall viewing experience.
The Pokémon Movie Chronological Order
The following list presents the Pokémon movies in their canonical chronological order, along with brief notes to help you place them within the broader Pokémon timeline:
- Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back (1998/1999) – Introduces Mewtwo, the genetically engineered Pokémon, and explores themes of identity and purpose. It’s considered a classic starting point.
- Pokémon: The Movie 2000 – The Power of One (1999/2000) – Features the Legendary Pokémon Lugia and the balance of nature being disrupted. Ash must restore harmony.
- Pokémon 3: The Movie – Spell of the Unown (2000/2001) – Focuses on the mysterious Unown and their ability to grant wishes, leading to a world of illusion.
- Pokémon 4Ever – Celebi: Voice of the Forest (2001/2002) – Involves time travel and a young boy named Sam, who becomes friends with Celebi.
- Pokémon Heroes (2002/2003) – Set in Alto Mare, a Venetian-inspired city, featuring the Legendary Pokémon Latias and Latios.
- Pokémon: Jirachi – Wish Maker (2003/2004) – Centers on the mythical Pokémon Jirachi and its ability to grant wishes for seven days.
- Pokémon: Destiny Deoxys (2004/2005) – Features the clash between Deoxys, an extraterrestrial Pokémon, and Rayquaza, the Sky High Pokémon.
- Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew (2005/2006) – Explores the bond between humans and Pokémon, focusing on Lucario and the origins of Mew.
- Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea (2006/2007) – Involves the mission of a Pokémon Ranger to protect the egg of a Manaphy, the mythical Sea Pokémon.
- Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai (2007/2008) – Introduces Darkrai and Palkia, two powerful Pokémon whose conflict threatens Alamos Town. It’s the first movie in the Diamond & Pearl trilogy.
- Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior (2008/2009) – Continues the Diamond & Pearl saga, featuring Giratina and its battle against Dialga.
- Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life (2009/2010) – Concludes the Diamond & Pearl trilogy, focusing on Arceus, the mythical Pokémon said to have created the Pokémon universe.
- Pokémon: Zoroark – Master of Illusions (2010/2011) – Explores the relationship between Zoroark and its illusions, as well as the events surrounding Crown City.
- Pokémon the Movie: Black—Victini and Reshiram & Pokémon the Movie: White—Victini and Zekrom (2011/2012) – Two versions of the same movie, each featuring a different Legendary Pokémon, Reshiram or Zekrom.
- Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. the Sword of Justice (2012/2013) – Centers on the Legendary Pokémon Kyurem and the Swords of Justice (Cobalion, Terrakion, and Virizion).
- Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened (2013/2014) – Features the Genesect, ancient Pokémon revived by Team Plasma, and their conflict with Mewtwo.
- Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction (2014/2015) – Introduces the mythical Pokémon Diancie and its quest to create a Heart Diamond to save its kingdom.
- Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages (2015/2016) – Centers on the mythical Pokémon Hoopa and its ability to summon Legendary Pokémon from across time and space.
- Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel (2016/2017) – Features the mythical Pokémon Volcanion and its distrust of humans, as well as a mechanical Pokémon created by Team Flare.
- Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! (2017) – A retelling of Ash’s original journey, departing significantly from the canon of the main anime series. While nostalgic, its place in the timeline is debated.
- Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us (2018) – A standalone story set in Fula City, focusing on the themes of cooperation and unity.
- Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution (2019) – A CGI remake of the original Pokémon: The First Movie.
- Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle (2020/2021) – Features Koko, a human boy raised by Pokémon, and his connection to Zarude, a mythical Rogue Monkey Pokémon.
Understanding the Pokémon Movie Canon
Navigating the Pokémon movie canon requires understanding its relationship with the main anime series. While the movies often feature the same characters and settings, they frequently tell standalone stories that don’t directly impact the overall anime storyline.
Movie Universes and Alternate Timelines
Some movies, particularly those after the Diamond & Pearl era, can be considered part of a separate movie universe or even alternate timelines. For example, Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! retells Ash’s origin story with significant differences, placing it outside the established canon.
Impact on the Anime Series
While the films generally do not directly affect the anime’s storyline, some elements introduced in the movies, such as certain Pokémon or concepts, might later appear in the series. However, their role or significance could vary. This makes the movies entertaining additions, but not strictly necessary to understand the anime’s core narrative.
The Benefits of Watching in Order
Watching the Pokémon movies in chronological order provides several benefits:
Character Development
Witnessing the evolution of Ash, Pikachu, and their companions across multiple movies provides a deeper understanding of their character development. You’ll see their bonds strengthen and their skills improve.
World-Building
The movies expand upon the Pokémon world, introducing new locations, cultures, and lore. Watching them in order allows you to appreciate the richness and diversity of the Pokémon universe.
Emotional Impact
Experiencing the stories in their intended sequence allows for a more profound emotional impact. The recurring themes of friendship, courage, and perseverance resonate more powerfully when viewed chronologically.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding watching Pokémon movies in order:
H3 Are the Pokémon movies considered canon to the anime series?
Generally, the Pokémon movies are not strictly considered canon to the main anime series. They often feature self-contained stories and introduce elements that don’t directly impact the anime’s overarching narrative. Some movies even present alternate versions of events.
H3 Where can I watch the Pokémon movies?
Many Pokémon movies are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. They are also frequently available for purchase or rental on digital platforms such as Google Play Movies & TV and Apple TV. Pokémon TV, the official Pokémon app, sometimes offers a selection of movies for free streaming.
H3 Do I need to watch the anime series to understand the movies?
While watching the anime series can enhance your understanding of the characters and the Pokémon world, it’s not strictly necessary to enjoy the movies. The movies often provide enough context for viewers to follow the story. However, familiarity with the anime will undoubtedly enrich the viewing experience.
H3 Are the remakes, like Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution, worth watching?
Whether or not remakes are “worth watching” depends on personal preference. Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution offers a modern CGI reimagining of the classic first movie. While some appreciate the updated visuals, others prefer the original’s animation style and emotional impact.
H3 Is there an official watch order for the movies?
There isn’t an officially designated “watch order” beyond the chronological release order. Sticking to the release dates ensures you experience the movies as they were intended to be presented to the audience.
H3 Which Pokémon movie is considered the best?
“Best” is subjective, but Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back and Pokémon 2000: The Power of One are frequently cited as fan favorites due to their compelling storylines, iconic characters, and memorable music.
H3 Are all the Pokémon movies suitable for children?
The Pokémon movies are generally suitable for children, but some may contain slightly more intense scenes or themes. Parental guidance is always recommended, especially for younger children.
H3 Should I watch Pokémon the Movie: Black—Victini and Reshiram or Pokémon the Movie: White—Victini and Zekrom?
Both versions tell essentially the same story but feature different Legendary Pokémon – Reshiram in the Black version and Zekrom in the White version. You can choose based on your preference for either Pokémon or watch both for a slightly different perspective. The core story remains the same.
H3 What are some of the recurring themes in the Pokémon movies?
Recurring themes in the Pokémon movies include friendship, courage, perseverance, the importance of balance in nature, and the bond between humans and Pokémon. These themes are often explored through the adventures of Ash and his companions.
H3 Do the Pokémon movies introduce new Pokémon that later appear in the games?
Yes, the Pokémon movies often introduce new Mythical Pokémon that are later made available in the core Pokémon video games through special events and promotions.
H3 What is the difference between a Mythical Pokémon and a Legendary Pokémon?
Legendary Pokémon are typically found in-game through normal gameplay, albeit often requiring specific conditions or challenges. Mythical Pokémon, on the other hand, are usually only obtainable through special events, distributions, or promotions. They are rarer and often have unique roles in the Pokémon lore.
H3 Are the Pokémon movies available with subtitles or in different languages?
Yes, most Pokémon movies are available with subtitles in various languages, as well as dubbed versions in many languages. The availability may vary depending on the streaming platform or distribution method. Check the options offered by your chosen provider.