Pokémon: Detective Pikachu

REVIEW:

I should start by saying I’m not a big Pokémon fanatic. As a kid, I did collect the trading cards, but that’s as far as my connection to the franchise goes. I’ve never played the games, and outside of the famous Pokémon like Pikachu and Charizard, I couldn’t name many others. So, nostalgia wasn’t a factor for me going into this movie. I went in with modest expectations, hoping for a fun, comedic, and entertaining experience. Fortunately, Detective Pikachu delivered exactly that.

The plot revolves around Tim Goodman (Justice Smith), who teams up with a talking Pikachu (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) to uncover the mystery of his father’s disappearance. The story, while not groundbreaking, is engaging enough to keep viewers invested, blending mystery and adventure with just the right amount of humour. The world of Ryme City, where humans and Pokémon coexist, is vividly brought to life, immersing audiences in a vibrant and imaginative setting.

Let’s address the obvious: Ryan Reynolds is the heart and soul of this movie. His portrayal of Pikachu adds a layer of charm, wit, and humour that elevates the film significantly. You know what to expect from Reynolds—quick quips, comedic timing, and a lot of personality—and he doesn’t disappoint. Pikachu is lovable, sarcastic, and surprisingly heartfelt, and it’s hard to imagine this movie working as well without him. Reynolds makes you laugh, but he also makes you care about a small, electric, furry creature in a detective hat.

The rest of the cast does a perfectly fine job in their roles, but they don’t leave a lasting impression. Justice Smith carries the emotional weight of Tim’s journey well, and Kathryn Newton as Lucy, an ambitious reporter, brings energy to her scenes. However, the human characters often feel like they’re overshadowed by the CGI Pokémon. It’s clear that the Pokémon themselves are the real stars of the show.

Speaking of CGI, the visual effects are outstanding. Each Pokémon is rendered with incredible detail, blending seamlessly into the real-world environments. Pikachu, in particular, is a marvel to watch. His fur looks soft and realistic, and his emotions are conveyed so effectively that you can’t help but empathise with him. Whether he’s cracking jokes or looking heartbreakingly sad, Pikachu’s expressions are a triumph of animation.

As a family movie, Detective Pikachu hits all the right notes. It’s light-hearted, funny, and adventurous, making it an enjoyable watch for kids and adults alike. Even for someone like me, with limited knowledge of Pokémon, the film’s humour and world-building were enough to keep me entertained. Fans of the franchise will likely find even more to love, with countless Pokémon cameos and Easter eggs peppered throughout.

Overall, Pokémon: Detective Pikachu is a charming and visually impressive adventure that doesn’t require prior knowledge of the Pokémon universe to enjoy. While the story may not break new ground, Ryan Reynolds’ performance as Pikachu more than compensates for any shortcomings. It’s a fun ride that blends humour, heart, and stunning visuals into a family-friendly package. If you’re looking for an entertaining escape, this movie is worth a watch.