Pokémon’s Diamond and Pearl generation may have started off
uneven with fans but performed okay and has garnered a deserved following. The
films revolving around the series though were just as spotty in their quality
of storytelling. At least the last film for this particular generation sort of
put itself back in place. Unlike the last three which added on legendary
behemoths in each additional sequel, this film took the one off approach. This
is actually good because the trilogy of films revolving around Palkia and
Dialga were not that interesting to begin with. That’s not to say this movie is
miles better, because it does have issues. In short it’s another standard film
that fans would enjoy but nothing not seen before. Thankfully it ends the 4th
generation of Pokémon decently enough.
Directed and written by the duo everyone should be expecting
by now, Mr. Yuyama and Sonoda made a slightly better entry this time. Ash and
company continue moseying onto their next destination when they encounter a new
Pokémon by the name of Zorua (Eileen Stevens). As it turns out, the main cast
learn of an evil business man who has the power to see into the future named
Grings Kodai (Sean Schemmel). It’s this power that he uses in order to make
gains solely for himself by secretly using Zorua’s protector Zoroark to deceive
the public. Ash and company also meet Karl (Wayne Grayson), a journalist
looking to uncover Kodai’s secrets as well. Again, at least the story is
different and explanations are given for certain characters’ motivations. Then
again, it also doesn’t in some places.
One good example of this is the purpose of Zorua being telepathic?
This feels all too much like Pokémon Giratina and the Sky Warrior (2008). When
looking at the film, even if Zorua couldn’t communicate in English, the story
would’ve went along just fine. Also the concept of Zorua and Zoroark being a
shape shifter isn’t new either. Ditto was the original Pokémon who could do
that. Despite that though, the supporting characters feel a bit more natural as
opposed to the last bunch. There not some extraordinary group of individuals
with hidden powers. They’re literally just regular people. What’s also
gratifying to see is the acknowledgment of previous Pokémon that have appeared
throughout the series run that take on the role of supporting characters too.
Also don’t forget that Pikachu and Piplup have come a long way in partnership
chemistry.
Acting from the recurring voice cast and other members were
fine. As usual the team rocket characters continue to run parallel to the
events that take place. Even for Zorua who is not the most necessary of
characters is voiced well by Eileen Stevens for her first time joining the
franchise. Erica Schroeder who first played a role in Pokémon Lucario and the
Mystery of Mew is fine as the assistant to the main antagonist. Wayne Grayson
as Karl does well. For those familiar with his voice, fans may recognize some
of his lines and how he reads them. The same could be said for Sean Schemmel
who everyone recognizes as the voice of Goku in dragonball z. It’s not always
apparent, but when Kodai yells or makes certain statements, fans can pick up on
that it’s him.
When looking at the presentation of the feature the
animation is now fairly consistent from the last couple of films before it. The
cinematography was again handled by Takaya Mizutani, as expected and the reason
for it still isn’t there, which was also expected. Not like that’s it though
when it comes to expectations. Reason being that Shinji Miyazaki composes the
film score to this entry. Didn’t see that coming. What wasn’t seen coming was
that for this entry, Miyazaki’s contribution is weirdly underwhelming here.
Miyazaki really hasn’t had any times that didn’t work, but it can always
happen. While the music isn’t bad, it’s just not memorable. The score does have
different vocals in certain scenes but somehow doesn’t overcome the blandness.
Oh well, can’t win them all.
Surprisingly music wasn’t as impactful as previous
entries. Also the addition of another telepathic Pokémon feels very repetitive
in nature with the series of films before it. The animation and voice acting is
good though. It also helps that the story is independent from the last three
films and changes up some of the more typical aspects of the shown prior.
Points Earned --> 6:10
No comments:
Post a Comment