How to Watch Pokemon Movies in Chronological Order

The Pokémon franchise has captivated audiences worldwide since its inception in 1996. Along with the popular video games, Pokémon anime, and merchandise, the Pokémon movies have been a significant part of the franchise's success. With over 20 movies released to date, navigating the Pokémon cinematic universe can be a bit challenging. This comprehensive guide will help you watch the Pokémon movies in chronological order, providing insights into the timeline, storylines, and how they relate to the adventures of Ash Ketchum.

Understanding the Pokémon Movie Timeline

Before we dive into the watch order without further ado, it's important to understand a few key points about the Pokémon movie timeline:

1. Most Pokémon movies are set within the continuity of the anime series but often occur as side adventures.

2. The movies generally follow the progression of Ash's journey to become a Pokémon Master through different regions.

3. Some movies have direct connections to the anime's plot, while others are more standalone adventures.

4. The chronology can sometimes be inferred from the Pokémon that appear and the companions traveling with Ash.

With these points in mind, let's explore the chronological order of the Pokémon movies.

The Chronological Order

Now, let's break down each movie and its place in Pokémon history.

Pokémon: The First Movie - Mewtwo Strikes Back

This movie takes place during the first season of the Pokemon anime, known as the Indigo League saga. It introduces the legendary Pokémon Mewtwo and provides backstory for Mew. The events of this movie are referenced in later seasons of the anime, making it a crucial starting point for any aspiring Pokémon Master.

Pokémon: The Movie 2000 - The Power of One

Set during Ash's Orange Islands journey, this movie features the legendary birds Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres, along with Lugia. It expands on the concept of legendary Pokémon and their impact on the world.

Pokémon 3: The Movie - Spell of the Unown

This film occurs during Ash's Johto journey and introduces the Unown, a collective of reality-warping Pokémon. It delves into the psychic capabilities of Pokémon and their influence on reality, centering around the idyllic town of Greenfield.

Pokémon 4Ever - Celebi: The Voice of the Forest

Still set in the Johto region, this movie features time travel and the mythical Pokémon Celebi, a time-displaced Pokémon. It provides insight into the history of the Pokémon world and the concept of Pokémon conservation, with a young Professor Oak making an appearance

Pokémon Heroes: Latios and Latias

The last movie set in the Johto region, this film introduces the legendary Pokémon Latios and Latias. It explores themes of sacrifice and the bond between Pokémon.

Jirachi: Wish Maker 

This movie marks the beginning of Ash's Hoenn journey. It features the mythical Pokémon Jirachi and delves into the concept of wishes and their consequences.

Destiny Deoxys

Set in the Hoenn region, this movie introduces the legendary Pokémon Deoxys, a deadly Pokémon creature that crash-lands on Earth. It explores themes of coexistence between different species.

Lucario and the Mystery of Mew

The final movie set in the Hoenn region, this film features Lucario and provides more backstory for Mew. It explores the history of Aura and its connection to Pokémon.

Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea

This movie takes place during Ash's Battle Frontier challenge and introduces the concept of Pokémon Rangers. It features the legendary Pokémon Manaphy and explores marine conservation themes.

The Rise of Darkrai

The first of the Sinnoh trilogy, this movie introduces Darkrai and touches on the concept of alternate dimensions.

Giratina and the Sky Warrior

The second part of the Sinnoh trilogy, this film features Giratina and further explores the concept of parallel worlds.

Arceus and the Jewel of Life

Concluding the Sinnoh trilogy, this movie introduces Arceus and delves into the creation mythology of the Pokémon world.

Zoroark: Master of Illusions

Set near the end of Ash's Sinnoh journey, this movie features Zoroark and explores themes of illusion and deception.

White—Victini and Zekrom / Black—Victini and Reshiram

These two movies mark the beginning of Ash's Unova journey. They introduce Victini, Zekrom, and Reshiram, exploring the legends of the Unova region.

Kyurem vs. The Sword of Justice

Set during the Unova journey, this movie features Kyurem and the Swords of Justice, exploring themes of justice and determination.

Genesect and the Legend Awakened

The final movie set in the Unova region, this film introduces a group of Genesect and explores themes of belonging and adaptation.

Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction

This movie takes place during Ash's Kalos journey and features the mythical Pokémon Diancie. It explores themes of responsibility and growth

 Hoopa and the Clash of Ages

Set in the Kalos region, this movie introduces Hoopa and brings back several legendary Pokémon from previous films. It explores the consequences of unbridled power.

Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel

The final movie set in the Kalos region, this film features Volcanion and explores the relationship between Pokémon and technology.

I Choose You!

This movie is a retelling of Ash's early journey with some significant changes. While it doesn't fit neatly into the main timeline, it's placed here as it marks the 20th anniversary of the anime.

The Power of Us

A sequel to "I Choose You!", this movie continues the alternate timeline story. It explores themes of community and the power of working together.

Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution

This is a CGI remake of the first Pokémon movie. While it retells the same story, it's placed here in the viewing order due to its release date and updated visuals.

Secrets of the Jungle

Set in the Galar region during the Sun and Moon series, this movie introduces the mythical Pokémon Zarude and explores themes of family and the balance between nature and civilization.

How the Movies Relate to the Anime Series

The Pokémon movies generally align with the progression of the anime series, with each movie corresponding to the region Ash is exploring at the time:

- Movies 1-5: Kanto, Orange Islands, and Johto regions

- Movies 6-8: Hoenn region

- Movie 9: Battle Frontier

- Movies 10-13: Sinnoh region

- Movies 14-16: Unova region

- Movies 17-19: Kalos region

- Movies 20-21: Alternate timeline

- Movie 23: Galar region

While the movies often feature legendary or mythical Pokémon that don't appear in the main series, they usually maintain consistency with Ash's current team and traveling companions.

Tips for Watching the Pokémon Movies

1. **Consider the Anime Context**: While not strictly necessary, watching the corresponding anime seasons can enhance your understanding of the characters and their relationships.

2. **Marathon with Caution**: With over 20 movies, watching them all in quick succession can be overwhelming. Consider spreading out your viewing over time.

3. **Look for Connections**: Some movies, particularly the Sinnoh trilogy (movies 10-12), have direct connections. Pay attention to recurring themes and characters.

4. **Enjoy the Standalone Nature**: Many of the movies are designed to be enjoyed independently. Don't stress too much about understanding every connection to the broader Pokémon universe.

5. **Appreciate the Evolution**: Notice how the animation style and storytelling evolve over time, reflecting changes in technology and the maturing audience.

6. **Explore the Themes**: Each movie often explores different themes relevant to the Pokémon world. Reflect on how these themes develop across the series.

7. **Watch in Original Language**: If possible, try watching the movies in Japanese with subtitles. This can provide a different perspective on the characters and dialogue.

## The Impact of Chronological Viewing

Watching the Pokémon movies in chronological order can provide several benefits:

1. **Character Development**: You'll see how Ash and his Pokémon grow and change over time.

2. **World Building**: The movies progressively reveal more about the Pokémon world, its legends, and its mysteries.

3. **Technological Progress**: You can observe how the world of Pokémon advances technologically over the course of the movies.

4. **Legendary Pokémon Introduction**: The movies often serve as a platform to introduce new legendary and mythical Pokémon, showcasing their powers and significance.

5. **Thematic Evolution**: Over time, the movies tackle more complex themes, reflecting the maturing audience of the Pokémon franchise.

Challenges of Chronological Viewing

While watching in chronological order can be rewarding, there are some challenges to consider:

1. **Continuity Discrepancies**: Some movies may not perfectly align with the anime's continuity, which can be confusing.

2. **Quality Variations**: The earlier movies may feel dated compared to more recent entries, both in terms of animation quality and storytelling complexity.

3. **Availability Issues**: Depending on your region, some movies may be harder to find or access than others.

4. **Time Investment**: Watching all the movies in order is a significant time commitment, which may not be feasible for everyone.

Conclusion

Embarking on a chronological journey through the Pokémon movies is an exciting way to experience the evolution of the Pokémon world. From the first encounters with Mewtwo to the latest adventures in Galar, these movies offer a unique perspective on the Pokémon universe that complements the main anime series.

Whether you're a long-time Pokémon fan or experiencing it for the first time, watching the movies in chronological order can provide a rich and rewarding experience. You'll witness the growth of characters, the introduction of new legendary Pokémon, and the exploration of themes that have made Pokémon a beloved franchise for over two decades.

Remember, while this guide provides a recommended viewing order, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey. Each Pokémon movie offers its own unique adventure, filled with friendship, courage, and the enduring spirit that defines the world of Pokémon.

If you have any questions about the watch order or need clarification, you can always turn to online communities like Stack Exchange Network or Stack Overflow, which are excellent Q&A communities for fans to discuss and share their knowledge of the Pokémon universe.

So grab your Poké Balls, call out your favorite Pokémon companion, and get ready for an epic movie marathon through the wonderful world of Pokémon. As Ash would say at the end of the series, "Gotta catch 'em all!" – and in this case, that means catching all the exciting stories these movies have to offer.