Pokémon fans everywhere are feeling the excitement as Netflix is releasing a Pokémon movie that is sure to bring back fan nostalgia. The new Pokémon movie, Pokémon Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution, is a remake of the first Pokémon movie that came out 22 years ago in Japan. While Pokémon Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution has already been released in Japan, it will finally be available for American audiences on February 27. The remake utilizes new CGI animation, giving the beloved movie a brand-new appearance. This remake will be bringing all the Pokémon you loved as a kid to life with greater detail than before.

I am personally excited to revisit a movie near and dear to my heart. However, being a remake of the first Pokémon movie that I watch and owned, the change of animation feels a bit off. After having the opportunity to watch the trailer, the body language and facial expressions feel off. Ash Ketchum’s emotions during interactions with other characters, or the antagonist Mewtwo, show a few of the quirks of the new animation. His anger seems to be over emphasized from an odd glare, or excitement appears to be less than sincere due to a weak smile. I am also partial to the older animation style, so it will take time to become accustomed to the new CGI animation. 

Regardless of these first takes from the trailer, I am excited to see the new iteration of this beloved movie, and all the adjustments that are sure to come to make a unique experience for this generation. Of course, we can’t forget the best part, we don’t have to leave the comfort of our home to enjoy Pokémon Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution!

Check out the trailer on YouTube, and let me know what you think!