With JRPGs in particular, there’s always been a discussion on how much a critic has to play before writing a review. I’ve had these discussions myself back when I used to review games. So, I do appreciate that. Pokémon narratives are pretty short by JRPG standards, though…

Condensed into a movie, certain moments weren’t allowed the space to soak like they would have in a TV anime. The pacing was atrocious. Despite essentially just being one fight after another, it felt like a slog. I wonder if it was only a film so the CG animators could flex lol

Right as the film started, I heard a little kid excitedly recognise Totoro in Ghibli’s logo. I wonder what he made of it. Perhaps he’ll grow up to be a film buff, or to be in therapy…

I have been thinking of potential angles. Do I write a review, a follow-up to my Crunchyroll feature 7 years later, or something else? Might let it simmer for a bit.

It’s also amazing to see such inclusive portrayals of neurodivergence - especially in anime. Uzuki Hirokawa’s role was brief, but her hyperactivity and lack of filter gave her an unmistakable charm that really added to the film’s message that it’s normal to be different.