Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem VS. The Sword of Justice
Synopsis — from MyAnimeList
Mythical Pokémon Keldeo wishes to join the Swords of Justice, a group of Pokémon traveling around the world, helping out those in need. To do so he must first harness the power of his horn and learn the move Sacred Sword, and he decides to challenge Kyurem, a Legendary Dragon residing in an abandoned mine located within an icy crater. Confident as he is at first, it soon occurs to Keldeo that he is not yet ready for the fight. Meanwhile, as Satoshi and his friends travel across the Unova region, they stumble across an injured Keldeo. At the same time, Kyurem goes on a rampage, drawing energy from other Legendary Pokémon and disturbing the balance of power in the entire region. Now backed by his new friends, Keldeo must overcome his weaknesses and face Kyurem once again, now with the fate of the world at stake.
Audience Consensus
Audience opinion is moderately divided, with many appreciating the film's focus on Keldeo's character arc and its subversion of typical Pokemon movie plots. However, significant criticisms exist regarding animation quality, particularly human character designs, and the perceived lack of originality and development in the plot and main characters.
Strengths
- Keldeo is the sole focus, providing a well-developed character arc without Ash overshadowing him.
- Subverts traditional Pokemon movie tropes by not focusing on saving the world.
- Explores themes of growing up, confronting fear, and overcoming mistakes.
- Visually appealing background animation, lighting, and almost medieval/fantasy atmosphere.
- English voice acting is praised.
- Team Rocket's absence allows for a more balanced and focused story.
Weaknesses
- Animation issues with distorted human faces, particularly Iris.
- Intrusive use of CG.
- Story is derivative and clichéd despite subverting other Pokemon movie tropes.
- The 'Swords of Justice' name is considered redundant and poorly conceived.
- Keldeo is described as insufferable, egoistical, rash, and cowardly, with unconvincing character development.
- Supporting Pokemon characters act as stereotypes and primarily deliver exposition.
- Kyurem's connection to other legendaries feels arbitrary.
- Plot has continuity errors and nonsensical character actions without repercussions.
- Some dialogue is generic and contains plot holes.