Tamar Picker

By far the best Pokémon movie, where Ash plays the role he was always meant to: as a living motivational poster who encourages the development of the characters around him. His relationship with Pikachu and all the Pokémon around him helps the characters realize the emotional power that they can draw from bonds with Pokémon, hence the title of the movie. Ash's unbridled optimism and faith in the good will of others inspires the other characters to place the trust in each other, in Pokémon, and in themselves. The pervasive idea that collective power comes from the power of each individual is an inspiring message that few kids' movies meaningfully convey. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who is feeling powerless and alone, and afraid to place their trust in others and be their true selves.

My family has a tradition called "Mockbuster Monday," where we'd watch poorly made kids' movies over dinner to make fun of them. We watched this movie, which was advertised on the DVD of one such "mockbuster," one of those evenings, and what a pleasant surprise we got! Instead of being funny because it was bad, it was incredibly entertaining because of how well it was made. The jokes, though somewhat crude, were hilarious, and the ridiculously chaotic plot ties together beautifully at the end with a touching scene. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who loves a good laugh as well as a good plot.