'Pokémon the Movie 20: I Choose You' Release Date, News: Upcoming Movie to Feature the Beginnings of Ash and Pikachu's Friendship
A new Pokémon movie in the summer has become quite a tradition ever since the highly popular media franchise first conquered the movie theaters back in 1998. What makes this year's offering, however, is that it's going back to the time when average boy Satoshi, or more popularly known to Western fans as Ash, first meets his starter Pokémon and eventual best friend, Pikachu.
Ash and Pikachu may seem to be inseparable these days, but they haven't always been this tight. While Pikachu's rebellious phase was featured in the first few episodes of the anime series, it hasn't been given as much focus as the upcoming movie now promises to give.
The official trailer starts off with an unseen man commenting about a leftover Pokémon which also happens to be a problematic one. But Ash, who came in late to claim his starter Pokémon bravely says, "Please, let me have him." So begins a partnership that has spawned many movies and anime seasons, and has made the media franchise more popular among kids and adults alike.
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The trailer also shows Pikachu's refusal to enter a Poké Ball or go anywhere with Ash. The snotty little rodent even answers in the affirmative when the young trainer asks, "Do you hate me?"
But their perilous adventures and shared experiences will gradually break the wall between them and prove to Pikachu that it can trust Ash with its very life.
Unlike the earlier Pokémon movies, which have mostly focused on searching for rare and legendary Pokémon, "I Choose You," which is the 20th movie in the series, will be all about Ash and Pikachu's adventures, and how Ash finally succeeded in taming his initially rebellious best friend. Although Pikachu still refuses to enter a Poké Ball even at the cost of its own life, there is no denying that the deep bond they have already shared through the years can no longer be broken.
A nostalgic trip down memory lane will only serve to strengthen that bond for them and in the hearts of Pokémon fans the world over.
"Pokémon the Movie 20: I Choose You" is scheduled to be released in Japan on July 15. There is still no official news regarding a U.S. release.
