Pokémon Detective Pikachu Review

8 / 10.  Pikachu is the cutest film character. EVER. *MINOR SPOILERS*

Pokémon Detective Pikachu is a delightful fantasy film directed by Rob Letterman and written by Letterman, Dan Hernandez, Benji Samit and Derek Connolly. It’s based on the Pokémon franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and is the first live action Pokémon film.

When detective Harry Goodman goes missing in Ryme City, his son, Tim, investigates. Upon searching Harry’s offices, Tim meets Harry’s former Pokémon partner, the adorable Detective Pikachu, who can only be understood by Tim and they join forces to solve the mystery.

The motion capture and CGI are excellent, Ryme City looks incredible and the story is enjoyable and engaging. It’s an easy to watch fun film with some unexpected emotional moments. 

I’d have liked to see a bit more interaction with other Pokémon, not just in passing. There are many to spot in the background, but only a few have proper screen time. There were also more Jigglypuff scenes in the trailer that I didn’t see in the film. Maybe with the success of this one there will be a sequel…

Ryan Reynolds is absolute genius casting as caffeine obsessed Pikachu, his voice and usual dry humour work incredibly well as the voice of the cute yellow bundle of fun, the star of the show.

Pikachu is the cutest film character.  EVER.  Seriously, I need one.

Justice Smith is fun and likeable as Tim, especially as he’s mostly acting and having conversations with just himself. Ken Watanabe is one of my favourites so I’m glad he was here, even if briefly, as Lieutenant Yoshida. Odd casting of Rita Ora as Dr Laurent – the most unconvincing scientist ever.

I bet Bill Nighy never thought he’d be playing a Pokémon.

“Twisty, very twisty.”