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Every Pokémon Movie Ever, in Chronological Order
Explore the magical world of Pokémon through its movies, a captivating journey that started in the late 1990s. Pokémon films bring to life legendary battles, mythical creatures, and the adventures of Ash Ketchum and his friends. This is an essential watch for any fan committed to experiencing the full story arc of these cherished characters.
Below is a chronological list of all the Pokémon movies:
- Pokemon The First Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back
- Pokémon the Movie 2000
- Pokémon 3: The Movie
- Pokémon 4Ever
- Pokémon Heroes
- Pokémon: Jirachi: Wish Maker
- Pokémon: Destiny Deoxys
- Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew
- Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea
- Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai
- Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior
- Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life
- Pokémon-Zoroark: Master of Illusions
- Pokémon the Movie: Black-Victini and Reshiram, White-Victini and Zekrom
- Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. The Sword of Justice
- Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened
- Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction
- Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages
- Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and The Mechanical Marvel
- Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!
- Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us
- Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back-Evolution
- Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle
- Pokémon Detective Pikachu
These films are a vibrant mix of adventure, friendship, and iconic battles that have enchanted viewers worldwide for decades. Dive into the Pokémon cinematic universe and relive these classic tales.
The Pokémon Movies in Timeline Order:
Here is a list of Pokémon movies arranged by their release years. Each movie features exciting adventures and new challenges for the characters you love.
- Pokemon The First Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back (1999)
- Pokémon the Movie 2000 (2000)
- Pokémon 3: The Movie (2001)
- Pokémon 4Ever (2003)
- Pokémon Heroes (2003)
- Pokémon: Jirachi: Wish Maker (2004)
- Pokémon: Destiny Deoxys (2005)
- Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew (2006)
- Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea (2007)
- Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai (2008)
- Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior (2009)
- Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life (2009)
- Pokémon-Zoroark: Master of Illusions (2011)
- Pokémon the Movie: Black-Victini and Reshiram, White-Victini and Zekrom (2011)
- Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. The Sword of Justice (2012)
- Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened (2013)
- Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction (2014)
- Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages (2015)
- Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and The Mechanical Marvel (2016)
- Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! (2017)
- Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us (2018)
- Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back-Evolution (2020)
- Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle (2021)
- Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019)
How Many ‘Pokémon’ Movies Are There?
You can find a total of 23 animated Pokémon movies and one live-action film. While there are also special TV episodes and Pikachu shorts, these are different from full-length movies and shouldn’t be counted as such.
1. Pokemon The First Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 16%
In the first Pokémon movie from 1999, you follow Ash, Brock, and Misty as they journey to an island, thinking they’ll battle another Pokémon trainer. Instead, they find themselves facing Mewtwo, a highly powerful Pokémon engineered in a lab. Mewtwo’s goal is to dominate the world with his cloned Pokémon army. The film runs for 85 minutes and became a massive hit in Japan, earning around ¥7.6 billion at the box office. It stands as one of Japan’s most successful movies. You can watch it now on Prime Video.
2. Pokémon the Movie 2000
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 19%
In this adventure, you’ll find Ash, Misty, and Tracey getting involved in a festival that celebrates the legendary Pokémon: Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. Meanwhile, a character named Lawrence III has a plan to capture these Pokémon, along with Lugia, for his own ambitions. While the film earned ¥6.4 billion in Japan, slightly less than its predecessor, it still ranks among the highest-grossing Japanese films globally. With a runtime of 84 minutes, you can watch this exciting tale now on Prime Video.
3. Pokémon 3: The Movie
IMDb Rating: 5.8/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 20%
A young girl named Molly Hale finds herself alone when her father, Professor Spencer Hale, is caught in the mysterious realm of the Unown. While searching for her father, Molly inadvertently draws others, including Delia Ketchum, Ash’s mom, into the same dimension. Boldly, Ash and his friends set out to bring everyone back safely. The movie, released on April 6, 2001, runs for 74 minutes and performed remarkably at Japan’s box office, earning ¥4.85 billion. Notably, this was also the first Pokémon film to have its premiere in an IMAX theater setting. Watch it now on Prime Video.
4. Pokémon 4Ever (2003)
IMDb Rating: 5.8/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 16%
Released on October 11, 2002, this movie features Celebi, a Mythical Pokémon, at the center of the plot. The story follows Ash, Misty, and Brock as they cross paths with Celebi and Sam, a time traveler from 40 years ago. Together, they try to escape the clutches of the Iron-Masked Marauder from Team Rocket. Despite its adventurous plot, the movie earned ¥3.9 billion, marking a continued decline in box office performance since the release of the first movie. Watch it on Prime Video.
5. Pokémon Heroes (2003)
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 19%
In this film, you follow Ash, Misty, and Brock as they travel to Alto Mare. The trio soon finds themselves in the midst of a crisis when Annie and Oakley attempt to seize the Soul Dew. This powerful crystal is crucial for controlling Latios and Latias. Protecting it becomes urgent to ensure the city’s safety. With a runtime of 71 minutes, this movie earned ¥2.67 billion at the Japanese box office and is available to stream on Prime Video.
6. Pokémon: Jirachi: Wish Maker (2004)
IMDb Rating: 5.7/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 61%
Released on June 1, 2004, this movie is part of the Ruby and Sapphire series and runs for 81 minutes. The story unfolds as the Millennium Comet, visible only once every thousand years, signals the awakening of Jirachi, a mythical Pokémon. Jirachi has the unique power to grant wishes upon awakening. This power attracts Butler, a former member of Team Magma, who wants to exploit it. The film achieved significant success by earning ¥4.5 billion, reversing the trend of declining box office numbers for Pokémon.
7. Pokémon: Destiny Deoxys (2005)
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 69%
In this movie, an unexpected meteor crash reveals the Pokémon Deoxys. This leads to an encounter with Rayquaza, a sky guardian that destroys Deoxys. Fast forward four years, and you find Ash, May, Max, and Brock in LaRousse City, where they meet Tory. Tory’s parents are working in a lab with an egg from Deoxys. Soon, you are taken on a journey to help protect the city. This film earned ¥4.38 billion at the Japanese box office.
8. Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew (2006)
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 81%
You’ll find Ash, May, Max, and Brock on a quest to uncover why Lucario was left behind. Their journey takes them to the Tree of Beginning to rescue Mew, Pikachu, and Meowth. Released on September 19, 2006, and lasting 103 minutes, this film marked the eighth entry in the Pokémon series. It was financially successful, earning ¥4.3 billion at the box office. While praised for its direction, reviewers felt it wouldn’t significantly change the animation genre. You can watch it now on Prime Video.
9. Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea (2007)
IMDb Rating: 5.9/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 68%
The animated film debuted on March 23, 2007, and runs for 107 minutes. A mysterious egg, which belongs to the Mythical Pokémon Manaphy, ends up in the hands of a pirate. You are taken on a journey as a Pokémon Ranger hands the egg to May, instructing her, along with Ash, Brock, and Max, to protect it until it hatches. It’s crucial to keep Manaphy away from the Phantom to ensure its home remains safe. The film earned ¥3.4 billion in theaters.
10. Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai (2008)
IMDb Rating: 6.4/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 75%
This movie, part of the Diamond and Pearl series, was released on February 24, 2008. It runs for 90 minutes. The story takes you to Alamos Town, where powerful Pokémon Dialga and Palkia’s battle threatens to destroy the area. Meanwhile, Darkrai, a Pokémon shunned by the townspeople, holds the key to resolving the chaos. Ash and his friends must clear Darkrai’s name and save the town. This film earned ¥5.02 billion at the box office in Japan. Watch it now on Apple TV.
11. Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior (2009)
IMDb Rating: 6.0/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 65%
In the 2009 film, Giratina finds itself in conflict with Dialga and Palkia due to turmoil in the Reverse World, leading to battles across both worlds. You follow Ash, Dawn, and Brock as they offer their assistance to Shaymin amidst the chaos. The movie runs for 96 minutes and was successful at the box office, grossing ¥4.8 billion. You can watch it on Apple TV.
12. Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life (2009)
IMDb Rating: 6.2/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 68%
In 2009, Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life takes you on a 94-minute journey through Michina Town’s history. The town is rich in ancient myths and surrounded by legendary Pokémon. When Dialga and Giratina clash, Sheena, the town’s protector, steps in to restore peace. Arceus appears, seeking payback for past wrongs. You join Ash and his friends on a time-traveling quest to prevent the betrayal that angered Arceus. You can watch the film on Hulu.
13. Pokémon-Zoroark: Master of Illusions (2011)
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 70%
You dive into the adventure as Ash, Dawn, and Brock head to the Pokémon Baccer World Cup. Instead of a peaceful tournament, they face chaos unleashed by Raikou, Entei, and Suicune, which results from a villain’s scheme. The film was a hit, bringing in ¥4.16 billion at the box office. You can catch this thrilling movie on Apple TV.
14. Pokémon the Movie: Black-Victini and Reshiram, White-Victini and Zekrom (2011)
IMDb Rating: 5.6/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 66%
Released on July 16, 2011, the movie runs for 96 minutes. It begins the Black & White anime series and takes you on an adventure with Ash, Iris, and Cilan in Eindoak Town, where they join a battle tournament. Here, they encounter the Victory Pokémon, Victini. Things take a turn when Damon captures Victini, with plans that threaten the world. The film was quite successful, earning approximately ¥4.33 billion at the box office. You can watch it on Prime Video.
15. Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. The Sword of Justice (2012)
IMDb Rating: 5.5/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 56%
Released on December 8, 2012, this animated movie runs for 71 minutes. Ash, Iris, and Cilan take on a thrilling adventure, where they assist the spirited Pokémon, Keldeo, in getting away from the formidable Kyurem after losing a battle. This film marks the 90th anniversary of Shogakukan, a principal publisher for Pokémon. The movie earned a significant box office total of ¥3.61 billion. While appreciated by many, some critics pointed out Keldeo’s appearance, noting it seemed overly childish for the storyline. You can enjoy watching it on Prime Video.
16. Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened (2013)
IMDb Rating: 5.4/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 42%
You’re in New Tork City with Ash, Iris, and Cilan as they witness an attack by the Genesect Army. In the midst of chaos, Mewtwo steps in to protect the city, choosing to defend it despite feeling a connection with the Genesect Army. This leads to an intense showdown between Mewtwo and Red Genesect. You can catch this thrilling adventure on Prime Video.
17. Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction (2014)
IMDb Rating: 5.5/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 59%
In the captivating world of Pokémon, you explore the Diamond Domain, a realm powered by the mystical Heart Diamond. As Diancie, the princess, faces the challenge of creating a new Heart Diamond, you join Ash and his friends to assist her on this crucial mission. The film, with a runtime of 76 minutes, premiered on November 8, 2014, and achieved significant success, earning ¥2.91 billion at the box office.
18. Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages (2015)
IMDb Rating: 5.9/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 47%
In this adventure, you join Ash, Pikachu, and their companions as they get introduced to the mythical Pokémon, Hoopa. Hoopa shares a story about a hero who once stopped a fierce Pokémon from seizing control in the past. Now, there’s a threat of its return, and it’s up to Ash and his friends to step in. The movie achieved significant success at the box office with earnings of ¥2.61 billion. With a runtime of 73 minutes, you can catch it on Prime Video.
19. Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and The Mechanical Marvel (2016)
IMDb Rating: 5.9/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 68%
You can explore the last adventure of the XY series with Volcanion and the Clockwork Marvel. The movie, released on December 5, 2016, lasts 97 minutes. Ash and his companions encounter the mystical Pokémon Volcanion after spotting smoke in the sky. Despite Volcanion’s dislike for humans, you find Ash tied to its journey as they strive to save Magearna.
20. Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! (2017)
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 33%
Kicking off the Sun & Moon series, this film takes you to Pallet Town. It’s Ash’s tenth birthday, and he dreams of becoming a Pokémon trainer with Pikachu by his side. Set in an alternate timeline, it presents a fresh take on their journey. The movie achieved impressive box office success, earning ¥3.55 billion. Watch it now on Apple TV.
21. Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us (2018)
IMDb Rating: 6.2/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 71%
Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us premiered on November 24, 2018, and runs for a total of 98 minutes. This movie brings the colorful Wind Festival in Fula City to life, celebrating the Legendary Pokémon Lugia. When a forest fire and dangerous spores threaten the event, you follow Ash and Pikachu on their mission to save the festival. The film successfully captured audiences, earning ¥3.09 billion at the box office. You can watch it on Apple TV.
22. Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019)
IMDb Rating: 6.5/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 68%
Detective Pikachu hit theaters on May 10, 2019, marking the Pokémon franchise’s first venture into live-action film. Directed by Rob Letterman, this mystery movie loosely adapts the 2016 game of the same name. The story follows Tim Goodman as he searches for his missing father, Harry Goodman, with the help of Detective Pikachu. Remarkably, Tim is the only human who can understand Pikachu, creating engaging interactions. The film was a commercial success, earning $433,514,834 worldwide. If you’re interested in seeing this unique take on the Pokémon world, you can stream it on Prime Video.
23. Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back-Evolution (2020)
IMDb Rating: 5.7/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 44%
This movie is a CGI version of Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back. You can watch it in the release order or compare it with the original to see what has changed. Although it’s a remake, it still achieved impressive earnings of ¥2.98 billion in Japan’s box office. You can stream it on Netflix.
24. Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle (2021)
IMDb Rating: 6.4/10 | Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 60%
In the alternate timeline introduced by I Choose You!, this movie follows Ash and Pikachu as they meet Koko, a boy raised by Pokémon. Despite being human, Koko always thought he was a Pokémon due to his upbringing. Ash and Pikachu help him uncover his true identity, leading to the revelation of a threatening plot against his jungle home. Released on October 8, 2021, with a runtime of 101 minutes, the film had a box office performance of ¥2.02 billion in Japan. You can watch the movie on Netflix.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Best Order to Watch ‘Pokémon’ Movies?
Watching the Pokémon movies in their release order is the simplest method since it generally follows the story’s timeline. In most cases, the order films were released is the same as the story timeline. The exception is the Sun & Moon series, where the first two movies take place in a different continuity. The first movie in this series is a CGI version of an earlier film. By following the release sequence, you’ll find that 2017’s I Choose You feels like a prequel, enhancing the viewing experience.
How many Pokémon movies have been made so far?
As of the latest updates, a total of 24 Pokémon movies have been released. This includes both animated and a live-action film.
Which Pokémon movie is the most recent release?
The latest Pokémon movie available is often noted for continuing the tradition of expanding the Pokémon universe.
Are the Pokémon movies available on Netflix?
A selection of Pokémon movies is available on streaming platforms like Netflix, though availability can vary by region. Checking Netflix’s current library can provide specifics on what is being offered.
Is there a live-action Pokémon movie, and how does it fit with the others?
Yes, there is a live-action Pokémon movie titled “Pokémon Detective Pikachu.” It exists separately from the animated series’ storyline, offering a different take on the Pokémon world. Details about its place in the franchise can be found on many Pokémon fan sites.
Where to Watch ‘Pokémon’ Movies
Pokémon movies aren’t all on one site, but you can find many on services like Hulu and Prime Video. These platforms offer most of the series for streaming.