A heartfelt review of Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! exploring its reimagined storyline, emotional depth, changes from the 1997 classic, and how it balances nostalgia with new twists. Read my full experience with this manga adaptation after enjoying it on ComicK.
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! Review & Story
I stumbled upon Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! on ComicK, and honestly, it was like stepping back into my childhood, except with a fresh coat of paint. The story reimagines Ash and Pikachu’s first adventure, and while some parts made me grin ear to ear, other changes left me scratching my head. ComicK made the reading experience smooth and free of interruptions, but it was really the emotions of the story itself that pulled me in. Let me walk you through my thoughts the good, the frustrating, and the surprising.
A Reimagined Beginning for Ash and Pikachu
This adaptation revisits Ash oversleeping and ending up with Pikachu, a moment that defined Pokémon for so many of us. I loved how this part retained its charm Pikachu’s stubbornness, Ash’s impatience, and their rocky start felt authentic. It wasn’t just nostalgia; it was storytelling done right.
At the same time, this reimagining introduces Ho-Oh in a much bigger way. The Rainbow Feather Ash receives adds a mythic layer that wasn’t present in the original. It changes the tone from a lighthearted adventure into something closer to destiny, which I thought was an interesting gamble.
Still, I couldn’t help but feel the pacing was a bit rushed. Because the story tries to cover both the old and the new, some emotional beats don’t linger long enough. It’s like being pulled along before you’ve had time to breathe.
The Supporting Cast: Familiar Yet Different
Ash’s companions here are completely different, and that’s where my feelings get mixed. On one hand, the new characters are kind, supportive, and bring out Ash’s better qualities. They also help highlight his growth in ways Brock and Misty never quite did.
But on the other hand, the absence of the original duo stings. Their banter and chemistry were a big part of what made early Pokémon special, and I felt their replacements didn’t fill that void. The rival, especially, stood out not in a good way. His cruelty toward Pokémon was so extreme that it bordered on unbelievable.
That said, the way Ash saves the abandoned Pokémon genuinely hit me. It reminded me why Ash has always been more than just a trainer he’s someone who values friendship over power.
Emotional Drama That Surprised Me
This manga doesn’t shy away from heavy emotions. One companion tells a story about losing a Pokémon, and it’s gut-wrenching. It’s not the kind of scene I expected in a Pokémon adaptation, but it added weight to the journey.
Even more shocking is the ending. Ash seemingly dies protecting Pikachu, only to be revived by their bond. I’ll be honest: I wasn’t sure if I loved or hated this twist. On one hand, it cements their connection in the most dramatic way possible. On the other, it felt overly intense for a franchise that usually thrives on optimism.
What worked, though, was the bond between Ash and Pikachu. Every sacrifice, every moment of trust, built toward that climax. Even when I rolled my eyes, I couldn’t deny the emotions it stirred.
The Visuals: Classic Pokémon Style
The art is exactly what you’d expect from Pokémon: clear action, expressive faces, and designs that lean into cuteness. It’s not groundbreaking, but it does its job. I appreciated how the battle sequences were easy to follow no clutter, no confusion.
At the same time, the lack of humor surprised me. Team Rocket shows up, but only for comic relief, and even then, their role is almost nonexistent. I missed the playful silliness that usually balances the drama. Without it, the tone sometimes felt heavier than necessary.
Still, when the art focused on emotional beats like Pikachu’s tears or the abandoned Pokémon’s heartbreak it was powerful. Those panels linger in your head long after you close the book.
Nostalgia vs. New Twists: Did It Work?
As someone who grew up with Pokémon, this adaptation gave me mixed feelings. On one hand, it honors the original by keeping Ash and Pikachu’s bond front and center. On the other, the changes sometimes felt forced, like the story was trying too hard to differentiate itself.
What I did enjoy was how it bridged generations. The appearance of newer Pokémon reminded me that the franchise has grown so much since 1997. It’s no longer just about reliving the past; it’s about showing how the journey keeps evolving.
Would I recommend it? If you’re already a Pokémon fan, absolutely. It’s emotional, dramatic, and packed with moments that will stay with you. But for newcomers, it might feel overwhelming this is a story built on memories as much as new storytelling.
A Journey Worth Taking on ComicK
Reading Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! on ComicK was both nostalgic and eye-opening. It’s not a perfect adaptation some choices felt too heavy-handed, and I did miss the lighter humor but it’s undeniably heartfelt.
For me, the story reminded me why I fell in love with Pokémon in the first place: the friendships, the struggles, and the belief that kindness always wins. Even when the narrative stumbled, Ash and Pikachu’s bond carried it through.
If you’re a fan who wants to experience a familiar story told in a new way, this is worth your time. Just be ready for some unexpected emotional punches along the way.
