Excuse me if i sound a little choked up. But this movie symbolizes many things. It was the best poke'mon movie made, and it was the last worth wile poke'mon movie made. None is better when it comes to this film's greatness. It had everything i was looking for, including more. Being an AAML(Ash and Misty love) fan, i found it particularly enjoyable from that stand point. The biggest clues about this couple in the 9+ years of the franchise existence is right here in this movie. Of course at the time it was in it's second year of existence. It also contained dramatic twists, and memorable lines that stand out in all poke'mon fan's minds forever. No poke'mon experience comes as good as this movie.
68 Reviews
Okay 'mon
Samiam33 May 2009
Part of the reason for the huge financial success of this movie has to do with all the ads which address Pokemon 2000 as the greatest adventure yet (or something like that). But is it?...not exactly.
Pokemon 2000 is entertaining, but it could have been more. Among the things that it lacks are the sense of a journey, the ethereal ambiance of the first pokemon feature, as well as the antagonistic sense of menace which Mewtow provided. On the other hand Pokemon 2000, is probably a better film for a mass audience, because there is more action and humor, but those alone do not make it the great adventure it promises.
Unlike the first movie, this one feels a bit short given the type of premise (one hero must save the world from destruction). Naturally this hero is Ash. In the movie however, he does not do anything so incredible. It felt to me like any other character could have been the hero, because if you get the help of an almost invincible legendary pokemon like Lugia, you don't need much skill. If this had been a slightly longer story, with a little more adventure, Pokemon 2000 would be a worthy film, but it's probably good enough for young Pokemon fans.
Pokemon 2000 is entertaining, but it could have been more. Among the things that it lacks are the sense of a journey, the ethereal ambiance of the first pokemon feature, as well as the antagonistic sense of menace which Mewtow provided. On the other hand Pokemon 2000, is probably a better film for a mass audience, because there is more action and humor, but those alone do not make it the great adventure it promises.
Unlike the first movie, this one feels a bit short given the type of premise (one hero must save the world from destruction). Naturally this hero is Ash. In the movie however, he does not do anything so incredible. It felt to me like any other character could have been the hero, because if you get the help of an almost invincible legendary pokemon like Lugia, you don't need much skill. If this had been a slightly longer story, with a little more adventure, Pokemon 2000 would be a worthy film, but it's probably good enough for young Pokemon fans.
Better Than The 1st!
lilbuddy10326 December 2000
I thought the P2000 was a lot better. It made more sense. I mean the first was kind of far fetched. That whole thing with Ash being turned into stone. What was that about?! Someone before mentioned about how they were waiting for Misty to say something about her bike. I was waiting for that too..(LOL). I think Ash and Misty have some kind of chemistry between them. I wonder what will happen in the next one.....
For the kids
Quinoa198421 July 2000
I think kids will probably like this sequel to the first Pokemon movie, but not love it. I certaintly didn't. And not to offend any kids reading this, but this was a pretty stupid movie. Not funny stupid like Dumb and Dumber, but really stupid like in Ski Patrol. True it is a well animated movie that is pretty colorful (thanks to the art of anime), but there is no payoff. The plot is a concocted one that kids might even find confusing, which is not good. But, it isn't in the worst film of the year category because of a few good scenes (and that the first short before the movie will make the dialogue seem like Shakespeare), not that that means this is worth a second viewing. Kids will like it, others might beware it. C+
Incredible
nutz4n644 March 2000
Ok, I know that I said in my review of Pokemon: The First Movie that I would wait until a week before the second one was released to order it in Japanese, but I just couldn't hold out any longer. I had to see it, and it's incredibly well done. So, which one do I like better? Truthfully, I don't know. Mewtwo Strikes Back had heart, and this one has a ton of adventure. Of course, since this one is still about five months from being released in the US, I won't summarize it, but I will say that Misty has a little competition. You'll see what I mean. Those of you that didn't like Mewtwo Strikes Back might like this one better. It has a great storyline, very likeable characters, and a beautiful music score. Hopefully this time, Kids WB will do better in the translation and keep the original music (except, of course, for the theme song). However, looking at their start on this movie (naming it Pokemon the Movie 2000), the future for this dub doesn't seem very promising. Hopefully, they know what they're doing this time.
Unashamed Pokemon fan right here
ILoveASeriousMan22 April 2010
I for one, and seeing on the internet I am pleased that there are others that are still unashamed pokemon fans out there It really has been so long since I saw the film. I saw the first and loved it and loved this one first, if this one had come out first then the fan base would've remained stronger and not cut the fans in half.
Half leaving and half staying. New Pokemon were brought in this film, they came in the first one as well and then after this there were so many it got ridiculous.
But as someone hoping to be a filmmaker one day, I plan to make a pokemon film for the devoted unashamed fans just to stand up for us, and put us all to rest.
I love the animation in this film, I love Lugias song. I thought it was funny and moving. I better grab this and the first on DVD before the disappear in obscurity
Half leaving and half staying. New Pokemon were brought in this film, they came in the first one as well and then after this there were so many it got ridiculous.
But as someone hoping to be a filmmaker one day, I plan to make a pokemon film for the devoted unashamed fans just to stand up for us, and put us all to rest.
I love the animation in this film, I love Lugias song. I thought it was funny and moving. I better grab this and the first on DVD before the disappear in obscurity
A big improvement
CuriosityKilledShawn17 January 2017
The Pokemon series got off to a poor start when the show transferred to the big screen. It was a badly translated movie that served only to alienate parents and confuse even the most die-hard of kid fans. Thankfully, this sequel improves on things by delivering a better story, smarter writing (with a few unintrusive moments of self-aware humor) and more interesting supporting characters.
Ash, Pikachu, and the rest of the gang are touring the Orange Islands when a madman called Lawrence III plans to capture three legendary Pokemon, uncaring of the fact that doing so will play hell with the planet's climate. The Pokemon population converge on the Orange Islands and all eyes are on Ash to find a way to stop Lawrence and restore balance to the chaos.
Even visually this is such a step up from the first movie. The blues of the ocean, the greens of the forests, and the gloom of the snowstorms really do make it pop with atmosphere. Pokemon has always been a showcase for superior animation as it is a series that is set on the road in a variety of locations. There are vistas in this one that are as good as Miyazaki. Not enough people realize that one of the main appeals of Pokemon is that it takes you places you want to go.
For kids and fans of the series I can only assume that this one will get more play time than the original.
Ash, Pikachu, and the rest of the gang are touring the Orange Islands when a madman called Lawrence III plans to capture three legendary Pokemon, uncaring of the fact that doing so will play hell with the planet's climate. The Pokemon population converge on the Orange Islands and all eyes are on Ash to find a way to stop Lawrence and restore balance to the chaos.
Even visually this is such a step up from the first movie. The blues of the ocean, the greens of the forests, and the gloom of the snowstorms really do make it pop with atmosphere. Pokemon has always been a showcase for superior animation as it is a series that is set on the road in a variety of locations. There are vistas in this one that are as good as Miyazaki. Not enough people realize that one of the main appeals of Pokemon is that it takes you places you want to go.
For kids and fans of the series I can only assume that this one will get more play time than the original.
Excruciating
slmstanley18 September 2000
Much worse than the original. It was actually *painful* to sit through, and it barely held my six year old's interest.
Introduction of some new Pokemon is marginally interesting, but storyline is extra-thin, dialogue is still bad, and music is mediocre. Watch the television show instead - it's much better.
Introduction of some new Pokemon is marginally interesting, but storyline is extra-thin, dialogue is still bad, and music is mediocre. Watch the television show instead - it's much better.
I liked it.
ajitter8927 June 2006
People should Stop Talking trash about this excellent movie. There is adventure and action, comic situations, good morals, adorable characters (PIKACHU & TOGEPI), beautiful animation, super script, suspenseful events, and everything you can think of that makes an all around great movie, even better. It is also a great way to inspire children that they can make a difference, no matter when times are hard. It Also influences kids That friends are the most powerful tool of all, and can help you when you are down, and out. Very, very cool, and Very, Very Exciting. To simply sum up my point, BOTH KIDS AND PARENTS WILL BOTH ENJOY THIS MOVIE!!!!
Thrilling adventure
briancham19945 August 2020
This film is a great installment in the Pokemon franchise. It has a more adventurous feel than the first film. It features a collector hell bent on capturing some legendary Pokemon and some very large consequences if he manages to do so. The stakes feel really big in this one.
Better than the first Pokemon
rsillima26 July 2000
The main film of the Pokemon 2000 duet is a significant improvement on the first -- as animation, as plot and with some knowing bows to the "fighting" style of the king of Japanese 'mons, Godzilla. Compared with Rocky & Bullwinkle, this is MacBeth.
Pokémon: The Movie 2000 (1999)
SnakesOnAnAfricanPlain17 January 2012
A bit more of extra action packed Pokemonness. Unlike the latest Star Trek film, the Pokemon films are not geared towards converting new fans. The episodes slip into the television series and make little sense unless you are familiar with Pokemon. Here we find a Pokemon collector, out to capture the legendary bird Pokemon. The plot survives for at least half the run time, but is soon an extended battle between the birds. It's fun and still limits the number of second generation Pokemon. There are a few nice touches, a couple of well timed jokes, and some heavy handed preaching about the environment, which is an odd thing for a franchise about animal fights.
Pokémon The Movie 2000 tries to capture the grandiose of its predecessor, but doesn't quite reach that level.
TheMovieDiorama27 February 2018
Ultimately this review will be somewhat biased, as a massive fan of the franchise I will always have a soft spot for these films. However, of the original trilogy, this is the weakest. Ash and the gang are caught in an elemental battle which could potentially end the world. It's up to him to retrieve three orbs from three islands that are protected by three legendary birds. The plot just reminds me of a 'The Legend of Zelda' game, having to obtain three key items. Anyway, I digress. Obviously tailored to younger audiences, the moral in this story is all about courage. It's not as hard hitting or preachy as the first movie, but still prevalent nonetheless. I do find the plot somewhat contradictory to the main purpose of the franchise. The antagonist is a collector, he wishes to obtain the legendary birds. Something that you are able to do in the video game instalments. He has a terribly designed floating fortress just to hold artefacts and relics. But he is lambasted for wanting to collect Pokémon. Sure he might just use them as show pieces but I don't see any rules against that? Aside from the underdeveloped villain, we have a bunch of new characters like Melody who sparks Misty's jealousy for Ash, Slowking who...just talks and Lugia. Simply badass. Characters are more developed than others, the shining stars though are Team Rocket who indeed change their ethos and instead assists the protagonist in saving the world. A refreshing twist in my opinion. Convenient? Sure but heck I found it enjoyable. The animation has aged extremely well. Plenty more frantic action this time around, particularly as Zapdos, Moltres and Articuno battle each other. The overall narrative does feel like an extended episode rather than a movie, but I quite like that. It harks back to the TV series and gives plenty of cameo opportunities for the likes of Professor Oak and Ash's mother. Fans of the franchise (like myself) and younger audiences will enjoy this. Everyone else? Avoid.
Pokemon is so under rated!
armyofdarkness36 February 2002
To put it simply, this movie is really good! Pokemon is so under rated, and always thought of as stupid by so many people. Why? cause it's projected towards kids, but these movies and cartoons are really good, and alot more complicated than meets the eye. that's one thing i love about em. Pokemon 2000 just proves that.
The animation of this movie is really cool, it's like the shows, but they're improved at the same time. A big step above the first pokemon movie I think. The plot is definately alot more in depth too. The disappointing thing about the first movie, is that mew and mewtwo fought, but it wasnt a battle we were expecting, so the action wasnt exactly what we hoped for. However in pokemon 2000, that's one thing i love, the action and adventure is great! Team Rocket and Ash even come to team up to help save the world which is a nice idea put in there. Seeing team rocket always doing the same thing does get a little redundant. My favorite part in the movie is when ash has to get across the ice with lugia protecting him to get the last sphere. I thought that whole scene was well made, and was just awesome to watch. The score of the movie makes it really good too. Very catchy, and intense score I think. No one would ever say that a pokemon movie is oscar worthy, but when it comes to just being enjoyable, and fun, pokemon 2000 is definately up there. I would hope that pokemon never died down if they kept delivering movies, and shows like this.
The whole misty hiding back her feelings about ash thing is kinda cute in the movie, it always make me wonder if they'll ever have a thing or not. heh anyway, this movie gets an 10/10, no matter what i think. I still have to see pokemon 3, i look forward to it though. Look more forward to Pokemon 4, i only hope that it is released in theaters.
The animation of this movie is really cool, it's like the shows, but they're improved at the same time. A big step above the first pokemon movie I think. The plot is definately alot more in depth too. The disappointing thing about the first movie, is that mew and mewtwo fought, but it wasnt a battle we were expecting, so the action wasnt exactly what we hoped for. However in pokemon 2000, that's one thing i love, the action and adventure is great! Team Rocket and Ash even come to team up to help save the world which is a nice idea put in there. Seeing team rocket always doing the same thing does get a little redundant. My favorite part in the movie is when ash has to get across the ice with lugia protecting him to get the last sphere. I thought that whole scene was well made, and was just awesome to watch. The score of the movie makes it really good too. Very catchy, and intense score I think. No one would ever say that a pokemon movie is oscar worthy, but when it comes to just being enjoyable, and fun, pokemon 2000 is definately up there. I would hope that pokemon never died down if they kept delivering movies, and shows like this.
The whole misty hiding back her feelings about ash thing is kinda cute in the movie, it always make me wonder if they'll ever have a thing or not. heh anyway, this movie gets an 10/10, no matter what i think. I still have to see pokemon 3, i look forward to it though. Look more forward to Pokemon 4, i only hope that it is released in theaters.
Better than the first, waiting for the third.
Psycho Doughboy 664 September 2000
Being a Pokemon fanatic, I was thrilled to see a sequel to Pokemon: The First Movie. Then again, I was sort of skeptical, because the first movie was not as "adventurous" as I thought it would be. Also, it is known that sequels tend to be worse than the original film. However, I was proven wrong. This film has better animation, a more detailed plot line, and greater sense of a "movie" rather than an extended version of the television series. Even the short, "Pikachu's Rescue Adventure" made more sense than "Pikachu's Vacation" in the first movie. I know what you all may be thinking, he is probably just some kid who just wants to brag about how good Pokemon is; but the fact is... I'm 20! I can legally walk into a "R-rated" movie! But, I would prefer walking into this delightful feature, because sometimes, with all the horror and boring over-dramatic films out there, it feels good to see a cute & funny animated film with a lesson to be learned at the end (which I'm not going to spoil for you). I highly recommend this movie, because nowadays, we all need to feel like a "kid" to release us from the stress! So, until a third movie comes out, I'll watch this one some more!
pokemon boredom
gandalf_a_19994 September 2006
I recently watched this again and there's another version which is shorter 1999. I get the feeling they are the same movie but I would like to know the difference.
One is Japanese and no pikachu short is all I can come up with. Ohtherwise why vote for the same movie twice??
Prof Ivy was rather boring. She sounded as if she was almost asleep, no expression at all with the few lines she had.
This was enjoyable enough but there wasn't much to it at all.
A collector (whos after Lugia, he has no plan to destroy the world) and the usual characters who try to stop him because trying to capture Lugia causes a lot of destruction.
The pokemon movies that follow are slightly better, deoxys (poke 7) is great, with no. 8 almost here.
One is Japanese and no pikachu short is all I can come up with. Ohtherwise why vote for the same movie twice??
Prof Ivy was rather boring. She sounded as if she was almost asleep, no expression at all with the few lines she had.
This was enjoyable enough but there wasn't much to it at all.
A collector (whos after Lugia, he has no plan to destroy the world) and the usual characters who try to stop him because trying to capture Lugia causes a lot of destruction.
The pokemon movies that follow are slightly better, deoxys (poke 7) is great, with no. 8 almost here.
The best of the Pokemon movies; fans will love it, others should give it a try
Dragoneyed36325 May 2008
For some, the Pokemon franchise is an immense joke. The movies, the show, the cards and games are just complete tripe. For others, it's a religion. While I lean towards neither one, I have indeed liked all the main films (Pokemon 1-4) and find them all very enjoyable kids films. This one surpasses the other three by a milestone, however. Not only is this movie a good Pokemon movie or a nice kids film, it's just a very great and fun film over all, in my sincerest opinion.
First of all, the story is quite honestly beautiful to boot. I know that might not bide with some, but truly, the whole idea of the legendary Pokemons Articuno, Moltres, Zapdos and Lugia creating a mass destruction that of course our one and only "chosen one" Ash can stop and how all the characters interact with the story is amazing. There are eye-catching action scenes as well as gorgeous animation settings, the best being the scenes near the climax at the three legendary bird islands and the ocean waters that Lugia resides in. It's all very breathtaking, regardless of whether you like the movie or not.
While all these films are extremely childish in terms of dialogue, what more could you expect? It does the job it's supposed to and does it well. Even the villain is sinister enough to get by and makes you feel empathy for the Pokemon he sets out to conquer. The score of Lugia's song is also a very soothing and wonderful score that overpowers even the whole film; simply beautiful. In any matter, the movie entertains. I like all of the settings mostly; The islands are all unique in their own way and stand out. The villain's blimp is elegant, and the new characters in this film besides the main Ash, Brock and Misty are all very fun; the most fun of all supporting characters in the movies.
Basically, if you liked the first, the rest contain exactly all the other attributes except they all vary in terms of professional tact. Like I have stated, this one takes all the characteristics of the Pokemon series to the highest they can go, and I am not ashamed to admit how much I enjoy this film, and have watched it more than once willingly. This movie shows what faith and determination can accomplish; all the films do, and I am proud to own this on old-timey cassette, and won't stutter to say I put it in, lay back, and let myself go from time to time.
First of all, the story is quite honestly beautiful to boot. I know that might not bide with some, but truly, the whole idea of the legendary Pokemons Articuno, Moltres, Zapdos and Lugia creating a mass destruction that of course our one and only "chosen one" Ash can stop and how all the characters interact with the story is amazing. There are eye-catching action scenes as well as gorgeous animation settings, the best being the scenes near the climax at the three legendary bird islands and the ocean waters that Lugia resides in. It's all very breathtaking, regardless of whether you like the movie or not.
While all these films are extremely childish in terms of dialogue, what more could you expect? It does the job it's supposed to and does it well. Even the villain is sinister enough to get by and makes you feel empathy for the Pokemon he sets out to conquer. The score of Lugia's song is also a very soothing and wonderful score that overpowers even the whole film; simply beautiful. In any matter, the movie entertains. I like all of the settings mostly; The islands are all unique in their own way and stand out. The villain's blimp is elegant, and the new characters in this film besides the main Ash, Brock and Misty are all very fun; the most fun of all supporting characters in the movies.
Basically, if you liked the first, the rest contain exactly all the other attributes except they all vary in terms of professional tact. Like I have stated, this one takes all the characteristics of the Pokemon series to the highest they can go, and I am not ashamed to admit how much I enjoy this film, and have watched it more than once willingly. This movie shows what faith and determination can accomplish; all the films do, and I am proud to own this on old-timey cassette, and won't stutter to say I put it in, lay back, and let myself go from time to time.
Pokemon 2 - a good movie
ciberhugo1112 April 2007
Pokemon 2: The Power of One is one of the movies that I most liked when i was young. I confess, years ago I was completely a pokefan but even now i can recognize that this movie have a lot to offer. Since the amazing soundtrack - Lugia song is really awesome, one of the best songs I have ever listen in an animated movie - the story, the characters, the pokemons and all the good vibes that the ending makes to the watcher, I can say that this is a very fun and good movie. You should watch it, at least once. If you were a fan of pokemons you will love it, if you weren t, you will love it too. And yes, this movie is a way lot better than Pokémon: Mewto strikes back, the first one.
Fans of Pokemon will enjoy this - others will be puzzled
lvirden27 July 2000
I found both the short feature and the long feature to be enjoyable - but then, I've been a fan from the first appearance of Pokemon in the US. People without any understanding of the background will likely not enjoy this much. However, most younger viewers seem to enjoy it.
The plots could be significantly better, as could the art. But, for the Pokemon fan, this is about as good as it can get - the big screen is great for seeing one's favorite hero...
The plots could be significantly better, as could the art. But, for the Pokemon fan, this is about as good as it can get - the big screen is great for seeing one's favorite hero...
Saw the ENGLISH VERSION, Pokemon 2000, opening day.
beverins22 July 2000
I have to say that this was not *too* bad... I give it a 75% overall, perhaps a bit high. However, it *did* have some problems..
First of all, we tackle Pikachu's Rescue Adventures (which sounds like a GREAT title for a spinoff show. Rescue Rangers, anyone?) Anyway.. well.. I found the story to be very simple (good) but ..well... boring (bad). This short has a lot of questions to be answered, but never will be, in the same sense that.. say.. watching Scooby Doo will also make you go "huh, well, why are they....? Why would someone do that..? How is that possible? Oh never mind!" The same with the Pokemon short. I mean, overall, it was cute - no doubt - but I thought Pikachu's Vacation was at least amusing. The only laughs I got from this was from making snide side-comments. Sorry :-) I would give this, as a standalone grade... 40% The animation was only of video-release quality.. with some rather crappy "moving cel" effects that had little-to-no animation on them at all.
OK, now we have The Power Of One movie. Animation: This was OK.. It's not the best anime you've ever seen - heck, the first episode of Tenchi Muyo on Cartoon Network was better animated, and that was only released on straight-to-video... never as a movie. But, there were times where it had that typical anime action that I love so much. The 3D CGI animation was very nice, and the blending of 2D cel with 3D backgrounds was pretty good - it was effective. I liked the 3D CGI versions of the 3 Legendary Birds for the scanner readout. You'd think that they could get a much higher budget for this cartoon, since it's made everyone involved sooo much money.. but.. oh well ::shrugs shoulders:: Greed rules... and if you can get away with OAV-quality animation and still make 60 million.. hey... Nintendo's not complaining.
Characters: They had something going with Misty's jealousy over Ash.. but they didn't do anything about it. Ash nearly drowns.. we ALL expected her to give him mouth-to-mouth... but... alas. I suppose they thought it would have been a bad idea to show what amounts to a 10-year-old and a 14-year-old kissing. The evil dood, Lawrence III, is a nicely Neutral character.. he's sorta evil.. but not malevolenty so.. although he IS willing to let the whole world go to pot just so he can have a perfect collection of Pokemon. I liked this self-incrimination part of the story. However, Lawrence III is completely WASTED as a plot device... and as such the movie scores low. Overall, he was a COMPLETELY USELESS character, that could have been replaced with another plot concerning itself with a natural disaster or suchlike - and would have resulted in perhaps a more Indiana Jones-type movie of exploration to try to save the world.
Story: Well... it was good... but it felt like I was watching two movies. One movie was about Lawrence III wanting to capture all the Legendary Birds to flush the Marine King out, and being thwarted by Ash and Friends... and the other movie was about Ash and Friends trying to save the world due to impending ecological meltdown, because the 3 Legendary Birds are fighting each other. Save for a scene where Lawrence III tries to capture Lugia, and a scene where he picks up the Ancient Mew card and vows to start all over... he is missing from the second part of the movie. Isn't he at least a bit p***ed at Ash for sinking his floating city? How about trying to stop Ash from spoiling his plans? No.. he just disappears from being an important antagonist.
As I said before, the movie's main problem is that Lawrence III is a completely useless character. If you're gonna have a collector villain that's even more uncaring about pokemon's feelings, or ecological protection than Giovanni, then USE HIM. Have the battles not only for the 3 Birds, but for the 3 Gems too. Wouldn't a collector like to have the raw power of the birds themselves? Why are you going to let a boy ruin your plans?
Also, the climax of the movie seemed to be an anticlimax. The sinking of the ship was nice.. as was the race to Ice Island and back... but after that - feh. It wasn't as surprising as in the fight with MewTwo, when Ash gets killed - At least surprise us with a kiss from Misty to Ash, maybe. I suppose the jealousy angle was a good surprise - too bad they didn't play it more.
I dunno - if the story had been more unified... rather than being two storylines in one... I think I would have enjoyed it more.
Still, I give it a generous 75%. I'm sure other people may wonder why it's so high... well, I *did* enjoy myself. Even at $9 a ticket, I thought it was alright. I didn't go in expecting anything but Pokemon... and so I got what I wanted.
First of all, we tackle Pikachu's Rescue Adventures (which sounds like a GREAT title for a spinoff show. Rescue Rangers, anyone?) Anyway.. well.. I found the story to be very simple (good) but ..well... boring (bad). This short has a lot of questions to be answered, but never will be, in the same sense that.. say.. watching Scooby Doo will also make you go "huh, well, why are they....? Why would someone do that..? How is that possible? Oh never mind!" The same with the Pokemon short. I mean, overall, it was cute - no doubt - but I thought Pikachu's Vacation was at least amusing. The only laughs I got from this was from making snide side-comments. Sorry :-) I would give this, as a standalone grade... 40% The animation was only of video-release quality.. with some rather crappy "moving cel" effects that had little-to-no animation on them at all.
OK, now we have The Power Of One movie. Animation: This was OK.. It's not the best anime you've ever seen - heck, the first episode of Tenchi Muyo on Cartoon Network was better animated, and that was only released on straight-to-video... never as a movie. But, there were times where it had that typical anime action that I love so much. The 3D CGI animation was very nice, and the blending of 2D cel with 3D backgrounds was pretty good - it was effective. I liked the 3D CGI versions of the 3 Legendary Birds for the scanner readout. You'd think that they could get a much higher budget for this cartoon, since it's made everyone involved sooo much money.. but.. oh well ::shrugs shoulders:: Greed rules... and if you can get away with OAV-quality animation and still make 60 million.. hey... Nintendo's not complaining.
Characters: They had something going with Misty's jealousy over Ash.. but they didn't do anything about it. Ash nearly drowns.. we ALL expected her to give him mouth-to-mouth... but... alas. I suppose they thought it would have been a bad idea to show what amounts to a 10-year-old and a 14-year-old kissing. The evil dood, Lawrence III, is a nicely Neutral character.. he's sorta evil.. but not malevolenty so.. although he IS willing to let the whole world go to pot just so he can have a perfect collection of Pokemon. I liked this self-incrimination part of the story. However, Lawrence III is completely WASTED as a plot device... and as such the movie scores low. Overall, he was a COMPLETELY USELESS character, that could have been replaced with another plot concerning itself with a natural disaster or suchlike - and would have resulted in perhaps a more Indiana Jones-type movie of exploration to try to save the world.
Story: Well... it was good... but it felt like I was watching two movies. One movie was about Lawrence III wanting to capture all the Legendary Birds to flush the Marine King out, and being thwarted by Ash and Friends... and the other movie was about Ash and Friends trying to save the world due to impending ecological meltdown, because the 3 Legendary Birds are fighting each other. Save for a scene where Lawrence III tries to capture Lugia, and a scene where he picks up the Ancient Mew card and vows to start all over... he is missing from the second part of the movie. Isn't he at least a bit p***ed at Ash for sinking his floating city? How about trying to stop Ash from spoiling his plans? No.. he just disappears from being an important antagonist.
As I said before, the movie's main problem is that Lawrence III is a completely useless character. If you're gonna have a collector villain that's even more uncaring about pokemon's feelings, or ecological protection than Giovanni, then USE HIM. Have the battles not only for the 3 Birds, but for the 3 Gems too. Wouldn't a collector like to have the raw power of the birds themselves? Why are you going to let a boy ruin your plans?
Also, the climax of the movie seemed to be an anticlimax. The sinking of the ship was nice.. as was the race to Ice Island and back... but after that - feh. It wasn't as surprising as in the fight with MewTwo, when Ash gets killed - At least surprise us with a kiss from Misty to Ash, maybe. I suppose the jealousy angle was a good surprise - too bad they didn't play it more.
I dunno - if the story had been more unified... rather than being two storylines in one... I think I would have enjoyed it more.
Still, I give it a generous 75%. I'm sure other people may wonder why it's so high... well, I *did* enjoy myself. Even at $9 a ticket, I thought it was alright. I didn't go in expecting anything but Pokemon... and so I got what I wanted.
A Pokemon Movie. What else is new?
kinglink-26 August 2000
Well to start with there is too much love involved... I don't want to spoil it, but Misty and Ash are involved in some love stuff. Somethings more suitable to a teenager compared to their ages (the pre-teens).
Second the Animation. is quite subpar with some stuff coming out, but my biggest problem is that they inconsistantly use 3d Animations... I say, use them or don't but to use them in 2 scenes really, and then pretend that it is not there is just a travesty.
The "villian" is horrible, and makes no sense at all. They just don't explore him... and I know it is a Childs movie, but the person isn't even really villanized.
The music is normal except for some music that sounded a bit too much like Legend of Zelda's Ocarina music, for my taste. (At least come up with new instrements, don't steal a new idea." Also there is Weird Al's Song "Polkamon" A superb Song (only if you like Weird al of course)
But to surmise the film, it is like the first, and it is different but the same... If you hated the first forget it. if you disliked the first, you might hate it. If you like the first, you might like this one, but you also might hate it. And if you loved this one.. you will at the least like this one.
But Personally I liked the first a lot (a little too much I think) but I did not feel that happier after watching this one, to me it was disappointing (but others might still like it)
I say try it if you want, but don't blame me if you hate it.
Second the Animation. is quite subpar with some stuff coming out, but my biggest problem is that they inconsistantly use 3d Animations... I say, use them or don't but to use them in 2 scenes really, and then pretend that it is not there is just a travesty.
The "villian" is horrible, and makes no sense at all. They just don't explore him... and I know it is a Childs movie, but the person isn't even really villanized.
The music is normal except for some music that sounded a bit too much like Legend of Zelda's Ocarina music, for my taste. (At least come up with new instrements, don't steal a new idea." Also there is Weird Al's Song "Polkamon" A superb Song (only if you like Weird al of course)
But to surmise the film, it is like the first, and it is different but the same... If you hated the first forget it. if you disliked the first, you might hate it. If you like the first, you might like this one, but you also might hate it. And if you loved this one.. you will at the least like this one.
But Personally I liked the first a lot (a little too much I think) but I did not feel that happier after watching this one, to me it was disappointing (but others might still like it)
I say try it if you want, but don't blame me if you hate it.
Original better but still worth watching. Team Rocket steal it.
Cylex29 June 2001
This film wasn't as exciting as the first, but thanks to Team Rocket, never dull for long. Compared with Mew & Mewtwo, the birds were a disappointment. It didn't take much to capture them. Lawrence III wasn't much of a villain. He didn't set out to destroy the world or dominate it. He just wanted to complete his Pokemon collection. After inadvertently setting events in motion, he has very little part to play. His ship was impressive though.
Misty's supposed crush on Ash has never interested me. They should remain just friends. The real chemistry is between Jessie & James, as can be observed in certain episodes of the TV Series. They won't say it of course, but it's there. They get the funniest lines and are the best part of the movie. The Pokemon are worth seeing too of course. 7/10
Misty's supposed crush on Ash has never interested me. They should remain just friends. The real chemistry is between Jessie & James, as can be observed in certain episodes of the TV Series. They won't say it of course, but it's there. They get the funniest lines and are the best part of the movie. The Pokemon are worth seeing too of course. 7/10
Still not better than the series but better than Digimon the Movie
tzmalone14 January 2001
There's something about going to the big screen that signals to the writers, producers, etc. that there shall be no levity when it comes to Pokemon. Granted that the tv series has its high comedy/lo comedy moments, but the film series seems to focus more on drama. And it seems to skew more towards boys. That said, Pokemon 2000 (which is actually Pokemon 1999 as Pokemon 2000 in Japan is a different movie--the movie slated for release in April 2001 here most likely) is a perfectly fine piece of kid's fare. No "Iron Giant" but its better than any of those other Warner animation theatrical releases ("Batman Beyond: The Joker Returns," being a straight to video item). Plus, this time, others (principally, Misty and Team Rocket) have things to do! (In the first movie, those characters were just window dressing.) Brock is missed here--he would have had something to say about Misty's protestations regarding Ash. All in all, it is a good, not great, film. Better than "Miss Congeniality."
Um ok
aschercarlson9 November 2018
The story was very entertaining, let's make it clear that's the only reason I'm not giving this a lower score. The animation and voice acting was very mediocre throughout the entire movie. Most of the effects were just flashing lights. I don't know how many times a veichal crashed and nobody was even injured. I get this is a kids movie but come on.
My 2 cents
The Fox-227 July 2000
Many of those who claim to hate this movie openly admit to hating Pokemon to begin with. As I had said in my comments on "Pokemon The First Movie," you have to go in to the movie with an open mind. If you go see "Pokemon 2000" because you were "dragged in" by your kids/nieces/nephews/others, you've already decided that you're going to hate it. I'm not saying that you WILL hate it; just that you've DECIDED that you're going to hate it no matter what, just because it's Pokemon. Current Pokemon fans (like me, and I'm 30!) or more open-minded moviegoers will probably like "Pokemon 2000."
I was glad that Kids WB decided to go with a more "theatrical" score for "Pokemon 2000." Although I would have preferred that more of the Japanese music would have been left in, I think that the orchestral music was more fitting than the bubblegum pop that permeated "Pokemon The Movie."
Like most people, I liked "Pokemon 2000" more than "Pokemon The First Movie," probably because of the overall brighter feel. I personally loved the first U.S. appearance of one of my favorite new Pokemon, the flowery Bellossom. There are points of the movie that I felt could have been expanded on, but overall, "Pokemon 2000" is a fun ride.
I was glad that Kids WB decided to go with a more "theatrical" score for "Pokemon 2000." Although I would have preferred that more of the Japanese music would have been left in, I think that the orchestral music was more fitting than the bubblegum pop that permeated "Pokemon The Movie."
Like most people, I liked "Pokemon 2000" more than "Pokemon The First Movie," probably because of the overall brighter feel. I personally loved the first U.S. appearance of one of my favorite new Pokemon, the flowery Bellossom. There are points of the movie that I felt could have been expanded on, but overall, "Pokemon 2000" is a fun ride.
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