What Is Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! About?
The premise of Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! in 281 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a world where fantastical creatures known as Pokémon coexist with everyday life, a young dreamer from the tranquil town of Pallet prepares for the moment he has imagined his whole childhood. On his milestone birthday, Ash Ketchum awakens to a bustling morning filled with anticipation, only to discover that the usual trio of starter Pokémon has already been claimed. His only option is a spirited, electric‑type companion who seems more interested in causing mischief than obeying commands. This unlikely pairing sets the stage for an adventure that blends the wonder of discovery with the challenges of forging trust.
Guided by the gentle wisdom of Professor Oak and the supportive encouragement of his mother, Delia, Ash steps beyond the familiar streets of Kanto into a landscape teeming with vibrant towns, sprawling forests, and bustling battle arenas. The film captures the kinetic energy of a world where battles are both sport and spectacle, and where each new encounter promises the possibility of friendship, growth, and unexpected lessons. The tone balances exhilarating action with heartfelt moments, inviting viewers to feel the excitement of a first journey and the quiet resolve that accompanies every brave step.
At its heart, the story is a celebration of the bond between a determined newcomer and his reluctant, yet undeniably charismatic, Pokémon partner. Their evolving relationship hints at a larger odyssey filled with awe‑inspiring sights, diverse characters, and the timeless quest to understand what it truly means to be a trainer. While the road ahead remains full of unknown challenges, the film leaves the audience eager to follow their path, knowing that the spirit of adventure and the promise of countless friendships lie just beyond the next horizon.
What Happens in Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!?
The complete story of Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!, from the first scene to the last, in 739 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 3 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Note: This is the original Japanese animated film with English subtitles.
The film opens with a thrilling Pokémon battle happening in a stadium, watched on TV by a boy named Ash from Pallet Town in the Kanto region. He is eager to start his Pokémon journey the following day, dreaming about choosing between Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. His excitement leads him to break his Poké Ball-shaped alarm clock while dreaming about being a trainer. The following morning, Ash’s mom, Delia Ketchum, wakes him up, realizing that he has overslept. In a frenzy, Ash rushes to the lab of the local Pokémon expert, Professor Oak, only to discover he is the last beginning trainer expected that day. Sadly, the three starter Pokémon have been taken by punctual trainers. Desperate, Ash is thrilled to accept the last remaining Pokémon—a troublesome yellow creature named Pikachu. However, this electric-type Pokémon has no desire to cooperate and shocks Ash instead.
As Ash embarks on his journey, he drags the reluctant Pikachu behind him. A nearby Pidgey captures Ash’s attention, but Pikachu refuses to help him catch it. In a moment of frustration, Ash throws rocks and inadvertently angers a Spearow, which retaliates. Soon, a flock of Spearow descends upon them, forcing Ash to leap into a raging river with Pikachu to escape. Filled with rain, mud, and chaos, Ash makes a heartfelt promise to protect Pikachu. Unexpectedly, Pikachu defends Ash by unleashing a powerful Thunderbolt, scattering the Spearow away. After enduring this harrowing experience, they catch a glimpse of a magnificent flying Pokémon, leading Ash to strengthen his bond with Pikachu and vow that one day, they will again meet that extraordinary creature.
As the iconic theme song plays, Ash and Pikachu’s friendship blossoms as they navigate Pokémon battles together, capturing their first Pokémon, a Caterpie. Their adventures continue as Ash challenges the Pokémon Gyms, triumphing against Erika, the leader of the Celadon City Gym, for the coveted Rainbow Badge. Taking a moment to communicate with his mother, Ash apologizes, but her frustration grows as she has been desperately waiting for him to check in. Mid-conversation, Ash learns that a Legendary Pokémon, Entei, has been sighted nearby, and he rushes off, followed by sundry others, including the infamous Team Rocket: Jessie, James, and Meowth.
In this chase, Ash encounters Verity and her Pokémon, Piplup, as they try to confront Entei, although it proves too daunting for both. Sorrel, another aspiring trainer, joins the chase, but all attempts to battle Entei fail. After a mistake leads Ash and Verity to provoke an Onix, they narrowly escape its wrath and bond over their shared misadventure. As they take refuge from the downpour in a cave, Ash and his friends encounter a dying Charmander, abandoned by its trainer, Cross. They rush to save Charmander and engage in heartfelt conversations about Pokémon loyalty.
With various adventures behind them, including Pokémon Evolutions and amazing battles, the trio shares stories and laughter under the rain. As they set out for the Legendary Pokémon, Ho-oh, they learn the importance of friendship and confront their personal trials. The colorful Rainbow Wing draws them closer to their destiny, but not without challenges from Cross, who is willing to go to extreme lengths to obtain power.
As tensions rise, Ash’s bond with Pikachu is tested. A particularly heated battle against the evil Marshadow sees Ash protect Pikachu, leading to a dire consequence: Ash’s possible demise. Unbeknownst to him, a portal opens as Pikachu desperately searches for its trainer, striving to restore him. Their friendship and connection lead them to the moment they meet Ho-oh, learning valuable lessons about strength beyond mere power.
In a jubilant conclusion, Ash reconciles with Cross, and they agree to respect each other’s journeys. With a heart filled with hope, Ash and Pikachu continue their travels, venturing into the unknown as the narrator hints at the countless adventures that lie ahead. Embracing their bond, they are set to face more challenges as flashed scenes of previous journeys remind them of the growth and friendships forged along the way. The screen fades, showcasing images of Ash’s companions through the series as the duo gets ready to battle a Heracross, all while Verity embarks on her journey home, and Sorrel pursues the Legendary Birds.
This beautiful tale illustrates not just the quest for strength in battles but also the unbreakable spirit of friendship that carries Ash and Pikachu toward their bright future.
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Ash Watches Pokémon Battle” to “Continuing Adventures”. 15 events name a place, across 13 locations.
- 1
Ash Watches Pokémon Battle
The film opens with Ash watching an intense Pokémon battle on TV. Excitedly, he dreams of becoming a Pokémon trainer, eager to start his adventure the next day.
When:N/A Where:Pallet Town
- 2
Morning Rush
Ash’s mom, Delia Ketchum, wakes him up, realizing he has overslept. In his frantic rush, he breaks his Poké Ball-shaped alarm clock, showcasing his eagerness to become a trainer.
When:Morning Where:Pallet Town
- 3
Arrival at Professor Oak's Lab
Ash arrives at Professor Oak's lab only to find out he is the last trainer to arrive. Unfortunately, all the starter Pokémon have been taken, leaving only one option available for him.
When:N/A Where:Professor Oak's Lab
- 4
Meeting Pikachu
Desperate, Ash accepts the last Pokémon available, a stubborn Pikachu. However, their first encounter is rocky as Pikachu shocks Ash instead of being cooperative.
When:N/A Where:Professor Oak's Lab
- 5
First Adventure Begins
As they set off on their journey, Ash struggles to communicate with Pikachu who is reluctant to assist him. This sets the tone for their rocky relationship right from the start.
When:N/A Where:Route from Pallet Town
- 6
Confronting the Spearow
During their travels, Ash angers a Spearow by throwing rocks, leading to a chaotic chase. This forces both Ash and Pikachu to leap into a river as they flee from the angry flock.
When:N/A Where:Raging River
- 7
Bonding Moment
In a moment of danger, Pikachu unexpectedly saves Ash by using a powerful Thunderbolt against the attacking Spearow. After this experience, their bond begins to strengthen.
When:N/A Where:Near the River
- 8
First Pokémon Capture
As Ash and Pikachu continue their journey, they successfully capture their first Pokémon, a Caterpie. This marks a significant milestone in Ash's early days as a trainer.
When:N/A Where:Wild Grass
- 9
Challenge at Celadon City Gym
Ash challenges Erika, the leader of the Celadon City Gym, and wins the coveted Rainbow Badge. This victory highlights Ash's growth and dedication as a trainer.
When:N/A Where:Celadon City Gym
- 10
Encountering Entei
During a phone call with his mother, Ash learns that a Legendary Pokémon, Entei, has been spotted nearby. He quickly sets off in pursuit, not knowing the challenges that lie ahead.
When:N/A Where:Near Celadon City
Show the other 5 events of Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Ash Joins Forces with Verity
In his chase of Entei, Ash teams up with Verity and her Pokémon, Piplup. Together, they try to confront the powerful Legendary, which ultimately proves to be too overwhelming.
When:N/A Where:Forest
- 12
Rescuing Charmander
After a series of events, Ash and his friends discover an abandoned and injured Charmander. They rally together, vowing to help it after discussing the bond between Pokémon and trainers.
When:N/A Where:Cave
- 13
Facing Marshadow
Tensions rise as Ash faces Marshadow in a fierce battle, where Ash risks everything to protect Pikachu. This moment tests their bond and puts Ash’s life in danger.
When:N/A Where:Battle Arena
- 14
Meeting Ho-oh
After overcoming numerous challenges, Ash and Pikachu finally meet Ho-oh. This encounter teaches them about the true meaning of strength and the depth of their friendship.
When:N/A Where:Sky
- 15
Continuing Adventures
The film ends on a hopeful note as Ash reconciles with Cross and they acknowledge each other's paths. Ash and Pikachu venture into the unknown, ready for more adventures together.
When:N/A Where:Unknown
Who Are the Main Characters in Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!?
4 characters, among them Ash Ketchum (Sarah Natochenny), Pikachu (Kate Bristol) and Delia Ketchum (Sarah Natochenny): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
-
Ash Ketchum (Sarah Natochenny)
Played by Sarah Natochenny
Ash is an enthusiastic and determined young trainer eager to prove himself in the world of Pokémon. His passionate ambition often leads him into trouble, yet his bravery shines through as he faces challenges. Throughout the film, he demonstrates growth in understanding the importance of friendship and teamwork.
- 👦 Boy
- ⚡ Trainer
- 🌟 Dreamer
- P(
Pikachu (Kate Bristol)
Played by Kate Bristol
Pikachu is Ash's first Pokémon and his initial partner on this journey. Initially reluctant to cooperate, Pikachu proves to be fiercely loyal and powerful, showcasing a strong bond with Ash as they face danger together. Pikachu's growth from a resistant companion to a devoted ally reflects the theme of friendship.
- ⚡ Pokémon
- 🐾 Companion
- ❤️ Loyal
-
Delia Ketchum (Sarah Natochenny)
Played by Sarah Natochenny
Delia is Ash's caring mother, who plays a supportive role in her son's Pokémon journey. She embodies the values of nurturing and guidance, often showing concern for Ash's well-being as he ventures into the unknown. Her character adds depth to Ash’s motivations and the personal stakes involved.
- 👩 Mother
- 🤗 Supportive
- 🏠 Caring
-
Professor Oak (Unshô Ishizuka)
Played by Unshô Ishizuka
Professor Oak is the local Pokémon expert who provides guidance to Ash as he begins his adventure. His wisdom and experience in the Pokémon world serve as a foundation for Ash’s training and development. The professor represents mentorship, helping to shape the next generation of trainers.
- 👨🏫 Mentor
- 🧙♂️ Wise
- 🔬 Scientist
Where and When Is Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! Set?
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! is set in Kanto region, Pallet Town and Celadon City. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The film takes place in a contemporary setting that reflects the spirit of adventure and growth in the Pokémon world. While specific years are not mentioned, the events depict the beginning of Ash's journey as a Pokémon trainer.
Where
Kanto region, Pallet Town, Celadon City
The Kanto region is known as the original setting for Pokémon adventures, where trainers embark on their journeys. Pallet Town serves as the starting point for many aspiring trainers, including Ash Ketchum, while Celadon City is famous for its iconic Pokémon Gym led by Erika, where trainers battle for badges.
- 🌍 Locations
- ⚔️ Battlegrounds
What Are the Themes of Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Friendship, Adventure and Loyalty.
-
01
Friendship
The theme of friendship is central to the film, showcasing the evolving bond between Ash and Pikachu as they face challenges together. Their initial struggles transform into a deep connection that exemplifies trust and loyalty, emphasizing that true strength comes from supporting one another.
-
02
Adventure
The narrative embodies the spirit of adventure, as Ash embarks on a journey filled with unexpected challenges and exciting battles. From capturing Pokémon to facing legendary creatures, the adventure theme inspires viewers to explore new territories and embrace the unknown.
-
03
Loyalty
Loyalty plays a profound role in the relationships formed throughout the film. Ash's determination to protect Pikachu, as well as his efforts to rescue Charmander, highlight the significance of standing by friends and loved ones through difficult times.
What Kind of Film Is Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!?
Hopeful in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
An energetic and heartwarming adventure that follows a determined young trainer and his Pokémon through exciting battles and challenges, centering on the uplifting power of friendship and perseverance.
- adventurous
- hopeful
- energetic
- nostalgic
- heartwarming
- exciting
- friendship
- coming of age
- pokemon training
- perseverance
Content notes: animal peril, child endangerment.
Quiz
How well do you remember Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!? Test yourself on the story.
