Are Pokémon Movies Canon? A Guide For The Fans

Since the first Pokémon movie hit theaters in 1998, fans have been captivated by the cinematic adventures of Ash and Pikachu. With a total of 23 animated films and even a live-action adaptation, the Pokémon franchise has expanded far beyond the TV series. But this expansion brings up a common question: Are these Pokémon movies canon, or are they separate tales?

In this guide, we'll explore the canonicity of Pokémon movies, discuss which ones align with the main anime series, and provide an overview of each film's storyline.

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Understanding Canon In The Pokémon Universe

In storytelling, "canon" refers to events that are officially part of a series' storyline. In the Pokémon world, this includes the main TV series featuring Ash Ketchum and his journey to become a Pokémon Master.

Most Pokémon movies are designed to fit within the timeline of the TV series. They often take place between episodes and feature characters and Pokémon that Ash encounters during his journey. However, some movies exist in alternate universes or timelines, making their canonicity a topic of discussion among fans.

Canonical Pokémon Movies (Movies 1–19)

The first 19 animated Pokémon movies are generally considered canon, as they align with the events and characters of the TV series. Here's a brief overview:

Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back (1998)

Ash and friends face Mewtwo, a powerful clone of Mew, leading to a battle that questions the ethics of cloning and the nature of Pokémon.

Pokémon: The Movie 2000 – The Power of One (1999)

Ash becomes the "Chosen One" to calm the elemental birds and prevent a global catastrophe.

Pokémon 3: The Movie – Spell of the Unown (2000)

Ash battles Entei, created by the mysterious Unown, to save a young girl trapped in a dream world.

Pokémon 4Ever – Celebi: Voice of the Forest (2001)

Time travel and the mythical Celebi play central roles as Ash helps a young Professor Oak.

Pokémon Heroes: Latios and Latias (2002)

In the water city of Alto Mare, Ash protects the legendary Eon duo from evil forces.

Pokémon: Jirachi – Wish Maker (2003)

Ash and friends awaken Jirachi, a wish-granting Pokémon, during a comet's appearance.

Pokémon: Destiny Deoxys (2004)

A battle between Deoxys and Rayquaza threatens a high-tech city.

Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew (2005)

Ash learns about Aura and teams up with Lucario to find Mew in the Tree of Beginning.

Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea (2006)

Ash helps a Pokémon Ranger protect the mythical Manaphy and an underwater temple.

Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai (2007)

Ash confronts Darkrai amidst a battle between Dialga and Palkia.

Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior (2008)

Shaymin guides Ash through the Reverse World to stop Giratina's rage.

Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life (2009)

Time travel reveals the origin of Arceus and its connection to the Sinnoh region.

Pokémon: Zoroark – Master of Illusions (2010)

Ash uncovers a plot involving Zoroark's illusions and the legendary beasts.

Pokémon the Movie: Black—Victini and Reshiram / White—Victini and Zekrom (2011)

Two versions depict Ash's encounter with Victini and the legendary dragons.

Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. the Sword of Justice (2012)

Ash aids Keldeo in proving itself to Kyurem and the Swords of Justice.

Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened (2013)

Ash helps Mewtwo and a group of Genesect find a new home.

Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction (2014)

Ash assists Diancie in creating a new Heart Diamond to save her kingdom.

Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages (2015)

Hoopa's powers summon legendary Pokémon, leading to a massive battle.

Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel (2016)

Ash teams up with Volcanion to rescue Magearna from a corrupt minister.

These Pokémon movies are canon and often tie into the TV series, with events or characters referenced in episodes.

Alternate Continuity And Non-Canonical Movies

Starting with the 20th movie, the franchise introduced films set in alternate timelines or universes:

Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! (2017)

A reimagining of Ash's early journey, featuring different companions and events.

Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us (2018)

Ash visits Fula City, teaming up with new characters to save a festival.

Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution (2019)

A CGI remake of the first movie, retelling the Mewtwo story with updated visuals.

Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle (2020)

Ash meets Koko, a boy raised by Zarude, exploring themes of nature and family.

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These films are considered non-canonical to the main TV series, existing in separate continuities.

Taking A Look At The Live-Action Adaptation

A live-action film called Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019) was also released, set in a unique universe where humans and Pokémon coexist in Ryme City. It follows Tim Goodman and a talking Pikachu as they solve a mystery.

While not connected to the main anime or games, it offers a fresh take on the Pokémon world. So while it's non-canonical, it's definitely worth a watch.

Final Verdict: Most Pokémon Movies Are Canon, But Others Are Also Worth Watching

Most Pokémon movies (1–19) are considered canon, aligning with the events and characters of the TV series. They often serve as extended adventures that complement the show's narrative. However, movies 20–23 and the live-action Detective Pikachu exist in alternate continuities, offering standalone adventures.

While the non-canon movies are not necessary, fans who want more adventures in the Pokémon world should definitely give them a try.