It’s hard to come across someone who hasn’t heard of Pokémon, a franchise that has its claws deep into our global culture. From video games and trading cards to a world-renowned animated series, Pokémon has remained a beloved entity for several generations.
Every Pokémon enthusiast remembers that electric thrill of venturing into a world, accompanied by fantastical creatures, each boasting distinct powers. Indeed, there are times we’ve secretly yearned for a reality where Pokémon roamed our streets. While we may not have these magical creatures in real life, the Pokémon films offer a slice of that fantasy.
Navigating through the Pokémon movie universe can be as tricky as dodging a Hyper Beam from a Gyarados. With a treasure trove of movies awaiting, where does one start? Worry not, Trainers! Here’s your ultimate guide to embark on the Pokémon movie marathon.
Chronological Dive Into Pokémon Films
Who could’ve imagined that “Pokémon: The First Movie” would lay the foundation for a cinematic world rivaling the likes of the MCU? With the recent release in North America and other continents in 2021, the Pokémon movie lineup now boasts 23 films.
Though “Detective Pikachu” enchanted audiences in 2019, it’s a spin-off and doesn’t quite fit into the traditional Pokémon timeline. Therefore, for this guide, we’ve set it aside.
It's the little wiggle 🥺 pic.twitter.com/5NPgCFNk4l
— Pokémon (@Pokemon) May 22, 2023
Here’s the optimal order to delve into the Pokémon movies, aligned with episodes from the animated series:
- Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back
- Watch after: Ep. 67, ‘The Pi-Kahuna’ (Indigo League)
- Pokémon: The Movie 2000
- Watch after: Ep. 105, ‘Charizard Chills’ (Orange Islands)
- Pokémon 3: The Movie – Spell of the Unknown
- Watch after: Ep. 155, ‘The Forest Grumps’ (Johto Journeys)
- Pokémon 4Ever: Celebi – Voice of the Forest
- Watch after: Ep. 205, ‘The Kecleon Kaper’ (Johto League Champions)
- Pokémon Heroes: Latios and Latias
- Watch after: Ep. 255, ‘Just Add Water’ (Master Quest)
- Jirachi – Wish Maker
- Watch after: Ep. 308, ‘Win, Lose, or Draw’ (Advanced)
- Destiny Deoxys
- Watch after: Ep. 358, ‘Sky High Gym Battle’ (Advanced Challenge)
- Lucario and the Mystery of Mew
- Watch after: Ep. 406, ‘A Real Cleffa Hanger’ (Advanced Battle)
- Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea
- Watch after: Ep. 455, ‘Aipom and Circumstance’ (Battle Frontier)
- The Rise of Darkrai
- Watch after: Ep. 503, ‘Steamboat Willies’ (Diamond and Pearl)
- Giratina & the Sky Warrior
- Watch after: Ep. 549, ‘Arriving in Style’ (Battle Dimension)
- Arceus and the Jewel of Life
- Watch after: Ep. 597, ‘Beating the Bustle and Hustle’ (Galactic Battles)
- Zoroark – Master of Illusions
- Watch after: Ep. 640, ‘For the Love of Meowth’ (Sinnoh League Victors)
- Black – Victini and Reshiram / White – Victini and Zekrom
- Watch after: Ep. 690, ‘A Fishing Connoisseur in a Fishy Competition’ (Black & White)
- Kyurem Vs. the Sword of Justice
- Watch after: Ep. 750, ‘Unova’s Survival Crisis’ (Rival Destinies)
- Genesect and the Legend Awakened
- Watch after: Ep. 786, ‘Capacia Island UFO’ (Adventures in Unova and Beyond)
- Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction
- Watch after: Ep. 832, ‘Forging Forest Friendships!’ (XY)
- Hoopa and the Clash of Ages
- Watch after: Ep. 875, ‘Rotom’s Wish!’ (Kalos Quest)
- Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel
- Watch after: Ep. 917, ‘A Real Icebreaker!’ (XYZ)
- Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution
- Note: Can be watched as a stand-in for the original or a standalone remake.
- I Choose You!, The Power of Us, and Secrets of the Jungle
- Note: These movies take place in an alternate continuum, so you may watch them at any time.
What’s Next in the Pokémon Cinematic World?
The Pokémon buzz is far from over. Whispers of “Detective Pikachu 2” are circulating, promising another electrifying installment. Moreover, fans have a delightful treat to look forward to with “Pokémon: Concierge.” This innovative stop-motion animated series is gearing up for its premiere in December 2023 on Netflix.
Gearing up for a Poké-marathon? With this guide, you’re all set. So, Trainers, prepare your popcorn and Pokéballs and embark on this cinematic adventure!
