Pokémon Detective Pikachu 2019
Directed by
Rob Letterman
Made by
Universal Pictures
Plot Summary
In the vibrant world of Pokémon, Tim Goodman (Justice Smith), a 21-year-old insurance salesman and former Pokémon trainer, is on a quest to find his missing father, Harry (Ryan Reynolds). Haunted by the loss of his mother and his father’s absence, Tim has turned his back on Pokémon training. Tragedy strikes when he learns that Harry, a veteran Ryme City police detective, has died in a car accident while working on a case.
Tim travels to the bustling metropolis of Ryme City, a place where Pokémon battles are illegal and humans and Pokémon share a unique bond. Determined to settle his father’s affairs, he encounters Lucy Stevens (Kathryn Newton), an ambitious fluff columnist with aspirations of becoming a reporter, who reveals her suspicions surrounding Harry’s death. Together with her Pokémon, Psyduck, they delve into the mystery.
In a startling twist, Tim meets a witty, deerstalker-wearing Pikachu (Ryan Reynolds), a remarkable detective whom only Tim can understand. Their confrontation with a group of Aipom, influenced by a mysterious purple gas accidentally released by Tim, propels them into an adventure filled with intrigue. Taking refuge in a café, Pikachu discloses that he was Harry’s police partner and has lost his memory, with only a deerstalker hat bearing Harry’s name as a clue.
Their investigation leads them to Mr. Mime, a former informant for Harry, who directs them to an underground Pokémon fighting arena owned by Sebastian (Omar Chaparro). Here, Tim confronts Sebastian and his Charizard, who challenge Pikachu to a rematch. In the chaos that ensues, a gas labeled “R” is released, prompting Tim to race against time as the authorities intervene.
Tim’s argument with Lieutenant Hideo Yoshida (Ken Watanabe) doesn’t yield the support he hoped for when Yoshida presents footage of Harry’s accident, casting doubt on the possibility that Harry is still alive. Undeterred, Tim and Pikachu visit the enigmatic benefactor Howard Clifford (Bill Nighy). In a shocking revelation, Howard shows them footage suggesting Harry survived the accident, abducted by the recently escaped Mewtwo, a powerful Pokémon cloned from DNA.
As their investigation deepens, Tim and Pikachu join forces with Lucy and Psyduck to uncover a nefarious plot orchestrated by Dr. Ann Laurent (Rita Ora). They learn that Harry had been aiding in experiments concerning Mewtwo and that trouble is more imminent than they feared. In a thrilling sequence, they evade an onslaught of Greninja in a lab facility but find themselves in a precarious situation with Pikachu suffering grave injuries.
In a dramatic turn of fate, a Bulbasaur leads Tim to a clearing where Mewtwo heals Pikachu. Yet, misunderstanding and betrayal loom as Pikachu leaves Tim, believing he has let Harry down. Meanwhile, a sinister plan unfolds as Howard intends to use Mewtwo to manipulate Pokémon behavior, forcing a fusion of consciousness between humans and their Pokémon.
In a climactic showdown, Tim confronts the truth about Roger (Chris Geere) and the form of Ms. Norman, realizing that deception runs deep within Ryme City. As chaos reigns, Tim manages to thwart Howard’s malicious plan, allowing Mewtwo to regain control. The aftermath sees Howard arrested and Roger impressed by Lucy’s determination, culminating in a heartfelt reunion where Mewtwo discloses Harry’s fate—his consciousness now residing within Pikachu.
By the film’s end, Harry, restored and revived, offers Tim a choice: to return home or stay and pursue his dream of becoming a detective alongside him and Pikachu. Choosing the latter, Tim embraces his new life, filled with adventure and camaraderie in the heart of Ryme City.
Timeline
Tim's Loss
At the age of 21, Tim Goodman grapples with the pain of losing his mother and the absence of his father, Harry. This emotional weight pushes him to abandon his former life as a Pokémon trainer and pursue a mundane career as an insurance salesman.
Harry's Tragic Death
Tim receives the heartbreaking news that his father, a police detective in Ryme City, has died in a car accident while on duty. This tragic event compels Tim to travel to the bustling metropolis to settle his father's affairs, setting the stage for his quest.
Meeting Lucy
In Ryme City, Tim encounters Lucy Stevens, an ambitious fluff columnist suspicious of the circumstances surrounding Harry's death. She shares her insights with Tim, and together, they decide to investigate further, forming an unexpected partnership.
Encounter with Pikachu
While investigating, Tim meets a witty Pikachu who wears a deerstalker hat and claims to be Harry's old partner. Tim discovers that he is the only one who can understand Pikachu, which opens a new avenue for their investigation.
Aipom Attack
As Tim and Pikachu delve deeper into the mystery, they unwittingly add chaos to their investigation. A group of Aipom is influenced by a mysterious gas released accidentally by Tim, leading to a wild chase and a quick escape.
Confrontation with Mr. Mime
Tim and Pikachu seek information from Mr. Mime, Harry's former informant. Mr. Mime directs them to an underground Pokémon fighting arena, leading to a showdown with Sebastian and his formidable Charizard.
The Gas Incident
During a chaotic battle with Sebastian, another gas labeled 'R' is released, creating a panic in the arena. Tim feels the pressure as law enforcement begins to close in, forcing him and Pikachu to think quickly to escape.
Disclosure by Howard Clifford
Tim and Pikachu meet the enigmatic Howard Clifford, who reveals alarming footage suggesting that Harry may have survived his supposed fatal accident. This shocking twist turns their investigation upside down, hinting at a deeper conspiracy.
Mewtwo's Connection
As they dig deeper, Tim and Pikachu discover that Harry was involved in experiments concerning Mewtwo, a powerful Pokémon. This revelation shapes their understanding of the dangers lurking in Ryme City and adds urgency to their mission.
Pikachu's Injury
In a thrilling escape from a facility brimming with Greninja, Pikachu sustains severe injuries while protecting Tim. This pivotal moment highlights their deepening bond and stakes in their quest to uncover the truth.
Healing by Mewtwo
A serendipitous encounter with a Bulbasaur leads Tim to Mewtwo, who heals Pikachu. However, a misunderstanding drives Pikachu away, believing he has failed Tim and Harry, deepening the emotional stakes of their journey.
Howard's Sinister Plan
As the narrative unfolds, it's revealed that Howard Clifford aims to manipulate Pokémon behavior using Mewtwo, which could lead to a fusion of consciousness between humans and Pokémon. This heightens the urgency to stop him before it’s too late.
Showdown with Howard
In a climactic confrontation, Tim discovers the truth about Roger and Ms. Norman, unveiling a web of deception. With time running out, Tim bravely thwarts Howard's evil plans, allowing Mewtwo to regain control over the situation.
Revelation of Harry's Fate
Following Howard's capture, a moment of revelation unfolds where Mewtwo informs Tim that Harry's consciousness resides within Pikachu. This shocking twist adds a mystical layer to their ongoing journey and the bond they share.
A New Beginning
In the concluding moments, Harry reveals himself as alive and offers Tim a profound choice: return home or stay and pursue a detective's life with him and Pikachu. Tim, embracing the adventure, chooses to remain in Ryme City.
Characters
Tim Goodman
Tim is a determined 21-year-old insurance salesman who has turned away from Pokémon training due to the trauma of loss. His quest to discover the truth about his father's death reveals his courage and commitment to uncovering the mysteries of Ryme City. Tim's character grows as he learns to embrace his past and inherit his father's legacy.
Detective Pikachu
Pikachu is an extraordinary detective with a sharp wit, known for his cleverness and charm. Although he suffers from memory loss, his partnership with Tim helps him rediscover his past and purpose. Pikachu embodies themes of resilience and loyalty, becoming a crucial ally in solving the case.
Lucy Stevens
Lucy is an ambitious fluff columnist with dreams of becoming a reporter, showcasing her tenacity and investigative skills. She aids Tim in his quest, offering crucial insights and support along the way. Her character represents the importance of perseverance in the pursuit of truth.
Howard Clifford
Howard is an enigmatic benefactor whose intentions are initially unclear. As the film progresses, his true motives are revealed, showcasing a complex character driven by power and control. His role serves as a catalyst for the unfolding events and rising tensions in the story.
Setting
Time period
The movie unfolds in a contemporary setting where Pokémon integration into society is well established. This modern context highlights the evolving relationships between humans and Pokémon, tackling themes of loss, friendship, and discovery.
Location
Ryme City
Ryme City is a bustling metropolis where Pokémon and humans coexist, known for its unique bond between the two species. In this vibrant city, Pokémon battles are illegal, creating a peaceful yet intriguing environment. The city serves as the backdrop for Tim's quest and offers a mix of urban charm and mystery.
Themes
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Mystery
The film centers around a captivating mystery, as Tim investigates the circumstances surrounding his father's death. This theme is embodied in his partnership with Pikachu, as they unravel hidden truths and confront deception in Ryme City. The pursuit of answers drives the narrative, intertwining personal loss with thrilling adventures.
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Family
Family plays a crucial role as Tim grapples with his father's absence and the loss of his mother. The film explores the emotional connections and responsibilities that bind family members, emphasizing Tim's growth as he uncovers his father's legacy. The reunion at the film's end signifies healing and hope.
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Friendship
The bond between Tim and Pikachu highlights the theme of friendship, showcasing loyalty and support amidst challenges. Their partnership evolves from a simple alliance to a deep connection, reflecting how friendships can transform one's purpose and path in life. This theme resonates throughout their adventures together.
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