Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! (2017)
Synopsis:
When Ash Ketchum oversleeps and breaks his alarm clock, he arrives late to Professor Oak's lab to discover the three traditional starter Pokémon have already been claimed by other trainers. Oak offers him one remaining option: Pikachu, a spirited Electric-type Pokémon with a stubborn streak and a strong aversion to staying inside its Poké Ball. Despite Pikachu's volatile and feisty personality, Ash eagerly accepts the unconventional partner and sets off on his journey to become a Pokémon Trainer. This animated adventure follows the beginning of their relationship as trainer and Pokémon, marking the start of what will become an unforgettable partnership. The film reimagines the classic origin story that launched the beloved franchise, offering families a fresh look at how one of animation's most iconic duos first came together.
Where To Watch: Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!
Parental Feedback
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! offers a fast-paced animated adventure that retells the beginning of Ash and Pikachu's journey with a mix of lighthearted humor and emotional moments. Parents should expect vibrant action sequences featuring Pokémon battles, themes of friendship and perseverance, and some scenes that may tug at heartstrings as the bond between trainer and Pokémon develops. The pacing moves quickly through various encounters and challenges, maintaining energy throughout while delivering messages about determination and loyalty that families can discuss together.
Why Kids Should Watch Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!
This animated adventure offers several positive elements that make it appealing for young viewers.
The central relationship between Ash and Pikachu demonstrates the value of patience and understanding when building friendships. Despite Pikachu's initial refusal to cooperate or enter a Poké Ball, Ash's persistence and kindness eventually create a strong bond that shows children how trust develops over time.
The story emphasizes determination and resilience as Ash begins his journey as a Pokémon trainer. Even after waking up late and missing the traditional starter Pokémon, he embraces the opportunity given to him and commits to his path forward.
The vibrant animation and fantasy elements create an engaging world filled with colorful creatures and imaginative settings. The Electric-type Pikachu and other Pokémon provide visual interest that captures children's attention throughout the adventure.
Themes of pursuing dreams and overcoming initial setbacks run throughout the narrative. Ash's willingness to work with a volatile and feisty partner rather than giving up models problem-solving and adaptability for young audiences.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!
Parents may want to consider a few aspects before viewing with younger children.
The Pokémon battle sequences, while animated, involve creatures fighting each other using various attacks and abilities. Some parents may find these competitive confrontations too intense for very young or sensitive viewers who might be upset by conflict.
Emotional scenes depicting the developing bond between Ash and Pikachu could be confusing or overwhelming for younger children. The relationship starts with Pikachu's refusal to cooperate, which might require parental context to help children understand the character dynamics.
The fast-paced nature of the adventure and quick transitions between different encounters may be difficult for younger viewers to follow. Children who prefer slower, more methodical storytelling might find the rapid progression challenging to absorb fully.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! earns approval for its positive messages about friendship, perseverance, and working through differences, making it suitable family viewing with age-appropriate guidance.
What Parents Should Know About Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, Ash demonstrates patience, kindness, and determination when working with Pikachu despite the Pokémon's initially feisty and uncooperative personality. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, the developing relationship between Ash and Pikachu includes moments of rejection and bonding that may require parental guidance for younger viewers to understand. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The narrative demonstrates that rushing and breaking things (like Ash's alarm clock) leads to missing important opportunities, though he ultimately receives a second chance. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the story emphasizes building trust, working together despite differences, and the importance of persistence in developing meaningful relationships. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, children will learn that determination, patience, and kindness can help overcome initial setbacks and build strong friendships even in challenging circumstances. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate the positive themes of friendship and perseverance woven throughout this animated adventure, noting that it provides a fresh retelling of how Ash and Pikachu's partnership began. Many families find the messages about patience and working through differences valuable for children, though some parents note that the Pokémon battle sequences and emotional moments may require context for younger or more sensitive viewers. The colorful animation and fantasy elements tend to engage children effectively, while the fast pacing keeps attention throughout the runtime. Overall, parents view this as appropriate family entertainment that sparks conversations about determination, loyalty, and building relationships, with most recommending it for elementary-aged children and fans of the Pokémon franchise who can appreciate both the action and the heartfelt character development.
Official Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! Trailer
Why Kids Love Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!
Kids love watching Ash race against time after oversleeping and smashing his alarm clock, then scrambling to Professor Oak's lab only to find all the starter Pokémon already claimed. The surprise reveal of Pikachu—a feisty Electric-type who refuses to stay in its Poké Ball—sets up instant sparks and zaps that make every scene crackle with energy.
Pikachu's volatile personality creates nonstop chaos as the stubborn little creature shocks and sizzles its way through their early adventures together. The bright, colorful animation brings every electric attack to life with dazzling bolts and flashes that light up the screen. Kids can't get enough of Pikachu's adorable yet unpredictable antics as it bounces between being cuddly and completely wild.
The fast-paced journey through vibrant natural landscapes keeps young viewers glued to the action as Ash and Pikachu encounter other Trainers and Pokémon along the way. Epic battles showcase different Pokémon powers and abilities, with electric moves zapping across the battlefield in spectacular bursts of light and sound. Every encounter brings new animal friends with unique looks and abilities that kids want to see more of.
The teamwork between Ash and his reluctant partner builds through action-packed moments where they must rely on each other to escape danger and save the day. Their unexpected friendship proves that even the most stubborn companions can become loyal teammates when adventure calls.