Kim's Movie Korner

Movie Review: Pokémon Detective Pikachu 

True confession time.  

Yes, I’m aware (in the vaguest sense) of the Pokémon phenomenon, but I for one don’t know jack, diddly, or squat about it.  Accordingly, the following review is pure from a Pokémon novice p.o.v. So, grain of salt time here with this review.  So, why did I bother to see the film in the first place?  Easy.  My interest/desire to see this film was strictly based on the “looks cute” factor and an opportunity to see if Ryan Reynolds voice acting could make me forgive him for the turdfest of Turbo from a few years back.  Kinda an animated Deadpool redemption story after Green Lantern.

Anywho, moving on. 

Yes, the cute factor did figure heavily in my overall enjoyment of the film.  Some of the Pokémon are just beyond adorable (the little turtle things were a personal fave).  Something that came in handy when my attention started to wane.  P.D.P. definitely has some pacing issues, at least for a novice.  The film’s opening grabbed my attention, but then I quickly got restless and squirmy for about 20 minutes awaiting Pikachu’s entrance. I found myself looking at my watch and noting the time.  However, once he shows, things got back on track, but again, here and there I felt the film was weighed down with visual effects and not a lot of story.

The visual effects themselves are also a bit uneven as well.  There are scenes where the thoughts in my head were literally screaming crappy CGI.  Fortunately, when the visuals were nailed (and there’s more of that than not) they’re quite stunning and allowed me to just get lost in the world of Ryme City.  The work done with the character of Pikachu is especially well done. 

The casting/acting is fine.  Not bad, but certainly nothing special.  I’m always happy to see Bill Nighy pop up, but once again felt Ken Watanabe is underutilized!  Someone please put the man in a film and DO SOMETHING with him! 

Good action, a serviceable (if shallow and a bit predictable) storyline, decent soundtrack, and good humor.

Again, I know nothing of Pokémon, so while Pokémon Detective Pikachu didn't give me the jellies, I still found it amusing and entertaining.  Enough so, I don't rule out seeing future films in the franchise at this point.  Whether I'll feel compelled to catch 'em all remains to be seen, I can say if you're in the mood for video game cuteness and have nothing else to do, you may want to give this film a look.

Pika! Pika!  That's a 6 from me.