The Movie Diorama Ultimately this review will be somewhat biased, as a massive fan of the franchise I will always have a soft spot for these films. However, of the original trilogy, this is the weakest. Ash and the gang are caught in an elemental battle which could potentially end the world. It's up to him to retrieve three orbs from three islands that are protected by three legendary birds. The plot just reminds me of a 'The Legend of Zelda' game, having to obtain three key items. Anyway, I digress. Obviously tailored to younger audiences, the moral in this story is all about courage. It's not as hard hitting or preachy as the first movie, but still prevalent nonetheless. I do find the plot somewhat contradictory to the main purpose of the franchise. The antagonist is a collector, he wishes to obtain the legendary birds. Something that you are able to do in the video game instalments. He has a terribly designed floating fortress just to hold artefacts and relics. But he is lambasted for wanting to collect Pokémon. Sure he might just use them as show pieces but I don't see any rules against that? Aside from the underdeveloped villain, we have a bunch of new characters like Melody who sparks Misty's jealousy for Ash, Slowking who...just talks and Lugia. Simply badass. Characters are more developed than others, the shining stars though are Team Rocket who indeed change their ethos and instead assists the protagonist in saving the world. A refreshing twist in my opinion. Convenient? Sure but heck I found it enjoyable. The animation has aged extremely well. Plenty more frantic action this time around, particularly as Zapdos, Moltres and Articuno battle each other. The overall narrative does feel like an extended episode rather than a movie, but I quite like that. It harks back to the TV series and gives plenty of cameo opportunities for the likes of Professor Oak and Ash's mother. Fans of the franchise (like myself) and younger audiences will enjoy this. Everyone else? Avoid.

Owen Ogletree The second Pokémon movie is an improvement over the first film in just about every department. It has better animation, better pacing, and everything was generally on a bigger scale.The story sees Ash and the gang crash on an island, finding out that Ash is the chosen one to save the world. The basic message that one person can make a difference. It's a little clichéd, but done quite well.Lawrence III is a competent villain, even though he is never mentioned by name for some reason. His flying hovercraft was pretty cool. Lugia and the three legendary birds Articuno, Moltres, and Zapdos were all awesome. Some of the best legendary Pokémon for sure.The film is epic in scope and full of exciting set pieces. The final 30 minutes are full of excitement and mayhem and will keep you on the edge of your seat.The tropical setting is really nice and I also enjoyed that Team Rocket were the good guys in this one. The song that played when the day was saved was beautiful.A great Pokémon movie. Definitely better than the first movie, and one of the best of the series overall. This is a must-see for fans of the show.RATING: A-

DarkGyarados@IMDB Honestly I just don't get it. Look I am 18 years old now and Pokemon was a major part of my childhood since I grew up during the Pokemon craze. I'd remember when I would always watch the anime everyday. Now onto my point, I understand that Pokemon the Movie 2000 is not a masterpiece by mainstream standards but I think that to give it a 4.4 out of 10 is just too harsh. Because when you think about it, Pokemon movies are more serious (and at times more dramatic) compared to the series, and I especially feel that Pokemon the Movie 2000 is one of the most epic Pokemon movies I have ever watched so far, especially the scene where Lugia fought the three legendary Birds of the Kanto region.So overall, this movie is not as bad as it was made out to be in here, and although it has its flaws, I highly recommend this movie for all Pokemon fans.

vader345 This Pokemon Movie is an extremely great movie. It was humorous, educational, and enriching. This was an extremely well-balanced movie. I laughed out loud at some parts and I shed tears at others. Another added bonus was a free Lugia Pokemon Card with every ticket. I don't understand why people wouldn't like this movie. It has a very clear plot, superb voicing, and tons of action. Any person, Pokemon fan, anime fan, or neither will enjoy this movie to the fullest. Parents, if you're thinking this is just stupid, mind-numbing violence, think again. This movie demonstrates friendship and teamwork and how working together with anyone can save the world. This is clearly the best of the Pokemon films.