Also called ‘Pocket Monsters the Movie: Revelation Lugia’ and ‘Pokemon: The Power of One” is the second Pokemon feature-length film released in Japan 1999. It complements the Orange Islands Saga (Season 2) of the series and features new Pokemon, including Slowking and the legendary Lugia.
The story follows Ash, Pikachu, Misty and Tracy arriving on Shamouti Island. The residents of the island practice a traditional ceremony where a Pokemon trainer is “chosen” to fulfill an important task that will save the world from a natural catastrophe. This is because a Pokemon collector named Lawrence III captured legendary Pokemon including Moltres, Zapdos and Articuno causing a disruption in the balance of nature. Teamed with Lugia, Ash attempts to restore balance by retrieving three spheres from three individual islands, especially with a surprising support from Team Rocket.
The English adaptation was produced by 4Kids Entertainment, distributed by Warner Bros. and released in 2000. Although this film received slightly better reviews than the previous film, it was still a negatively reviewed film from critics. Despite the increased promotion, the film was unable to successfully achieve well at the box office. Nevertheless, this is an exciting film – filled with adventure, action and angst. Though the storyline is quite predictable at times, there are some elements within the film that are still surprising, including Team Rocket assisting Ash on his quest.
The soundtrack is more upbeat, the animation is pretty standard with some improvements by adding minor computer graphics which are good to watch for visual detail. As mentioned earlier, the plot is predictable but for a Pokemon film it is an ideal concept. Beneath it does lie an environmental message where we, as human beings share the responsibility with animals to look after our planet. In addition, we may often underestimate how smart animals are, particularly in their relationship to nature. This film, upon multiple viewings does present this message. But I think the most devoted fans and viewers familiar with the classic series will enjoy this film more.
ACU Anime Club 