Critics Hated This 17% Rotten Tomatoes Anime Movie, But Years Later Fans Love It

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The Pokémon franchise includes numerous movies and animated series, starting with Pokémon: The First Movie. This film tells the story of MewTwo, a Pokémon created by scientists who struggles to find its place in the world. Because MewTwo is captured and mistreated, it develops a distrust of humans.

While Pokémon: The First Movie deals with surprisingly complex and sometimes dark themes for a children’s film, it’s received mixed reactions. Critics generally haven’t been impressed, but fans consider it a beloved classic. What explains this difference in opinion?

What Makes Pokemon: The First Movie a Cult Classic?

This movie is much more than a typical kids’ comedy or fantasy. It delves into the origins of MewTwo and Pokémon, and its struggle to find freedom and understand who it is. While it might seem simple on the surface, the story touches on powerful themes of being trapped and forced to obey – experiences shared by both animals and people. Even when MewTwo finds someone who seems to offer kindness, it’s ultimately exploited and used as a tool, much like the character Kurama in Naruto.

MewTwo is on a journey to find its place in the world, but faces hardship because many people see it as just another creature to control. Due to its difficult beginnings, MewTwo isn’t simply a ‘villain’ like you often see in anime. Its motivations and actions are much more complex and fall into a moral gray area.

The Deeper Questions Explored in Pokemon: The First Movie

Beyond MewTwo’s personal conflicts, Pokémon: The First Movie also tackles several serious themes.

  • What gives our life purpose?
  • Are we tied to our initial destiny, and how were we created?
  • Is violence justified, even when experiencing harm from others?

MewTwo was first created and treated as a slave, leading it to believe all humans were cruel and controlling. Feeling that the only way to escape this abuse was to be completely independent, MewTwo decided to take over the world and eliminate anyone – human or Pokémon – who stood in its way.

MewTwo challenges the idea of humans catching Pokémon, pointing out that using them to battle each other raises ethical concerns. He argues it’s a form of enslavement, mirroring his own beginnings as a captive creature – a point many Pokémon fans have discussed. Even though some trainers consider their Pokémon friends, the Pokémon are largely confined to Poké Balls and forced to fight when called upon.

Many fans consider the film a beloved classic, largely because it evokes strong feelings of nostalgia and features a well-developed character in MewTwo. Unlike a typical anime villain, MewTwo’s story explores how past pain and trauma can transform someone without making them inherently evil. When exposed to kindness and respect from humans, MewTwo is given the chance to redefine its purpose and change its path.

The Animation Style in Pokemon: The First Movie

Beyond the storyline, Pokémon: The First Movie boasts the familiar, heartwarming animation style that ’90s Pokémon fans will instantly remember. It captures the bright, colorful look of animation from that era, offering a uniquely nostalgic experience.

The moment Ash dies is particularly powerful—seeing the Pokémon’s tears sparkle around him is truly moving. It really emphasizes how deeply Ash cares for others and his willingness to sacrifice himself for their safety.

Why Are Critics Against Pokemon: The First Movie?

How Critics View the Film

  • Animation style lacking
  • Plot is simplistic
  • Feels commercial

But what exactly bothered critics about Pokémon: The First Movie? It’s a common problem with kids’ entertainment – if you didn’t grow up with Pokémon, it’s harder to connect with it, and you might be more likely to find flaws in the movie.

Some viewers find the movie lacking in substance and feel the story doesn’t go very deep. However, it’s a film made for kids, and complex plots can be hard for them to follow. Keeping things simple helps maintain their attention and increases the chances of the movie being a success, as children are the primary audience whose opinions matter most.

Many critics have also pointed out that the animation quality isn’t great, and the movie seems more interested in selling Pokémon cards and games to kids. However, the Pokémon brand has always included various types of entertainment, like card games, movies, TV shows, and video games.

If you grew up loving Pokémon, Pokémon: The First Movie is a fun and nostalgic watch, much like the TV show. While it’s not a deeply complex film, sometimes a lighthearted story is exactly what you need.

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2026-02-14 16:34