Thursday, May 9, 2019

Pokémon Detective Pikachu Movie Review

Justice Smith stars in Pokémon Detective Pikachu

Game On Off

Rotten Tomatoes Plot: The story begins when ace detective Harry Goodman goes mysteriously missing, prompting his 21-year-old son Tim (Justice Smith) to find out what happened. Aiding in the investigation is Harry's former Pokémon partner, Detective Pikachu: a hilariously wise-cracking, adorable super-sleuth who is a puzzlement even to himself. Finding that they are uniquely equipped to communicate with one another, Tim and Pikachu join forces on a thrilling adventure to unravel the tangled mystery. Chasing clues together through the neon-lit streets of Ryme City - a sprawling, modern metropolis where humans and Pokémon live side by side in a hyper-realistic live-action world - they encounter a diverse cast of Pokémon characters and uncover a shocking plot that could destroy this peaceful co-existence and threaten the whole Pokémon universe. Directed by Rob Letterman.



Forbes' film critic Scott Mendelson calls Pokémon Detective Pikachu "the best video game movie ever made." WTF? No adult I know, could/should stay awake through, yet alone enjoy this kids-only live-action borefest. Under 13? That's another story. You'll be too distracted to notice the second-rate visuals and wooden performances, including the listless Smith, who doesn't appear ready to carry a movie at the tender age of 23. As for me, I'm 50, and left thoroughly unimpressed. Ryan Reynolds provides a few cute moments, but this film desperately needs an infusion of Deadpool (and less cuddly, yellow pikachu.) Stay clear.

Grade: D-