For over two decades, one of the most anticipated moments for Pokemon fans worldwide was the annual release of its movies. From the groundbreaking Pokemon: The First Movie in 1998 to the dazzling Pokemon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle in 2020, these films offered thrilling adventures, heartfelt stories, and unforgettable moments. But for the first time in its history, the streak came to an abrupt halt. And now, a major leak is shedding light on what could be the franchise’s unexpected movie woes.
The Pokemon franchise, a cultural phenomenon beloved by millions, has always maintained its momentum with consistent anime releases and blockbuster films. However, recent revelations from a historic leak suggest that the hiatus of Pokemon movies might have deeper roots. The uncovered details point to an ambitious yet controversial project that could have redefined the series entirely.
A Dark Turn for Pokemon?
According to the leaked files allegedly mined from Game Freak, the studio behind Pokemon, the franchise began production on its 24th movie codenamed Bauer in 2021. The film was initially slated for release in 2023 but was reportedly delayed indefinitely. The reason? A bold creative direction that stirred concerns among executives.
The plot of Bauer, as revealed in the leaks, offers a fresh yet darker take on the Pokemon universe. Set in a modern Kanto, the story would have followed two original characters, Light and Akari, as they navigated the trials of adolescence. Tackling themes such as cyberbullying and even suicide, the film aimed to resonate with older fans who grew up with Pokemon while introducing a new layer of depth to the series.
Mew, the iconic mythical Pokemon, would have played a central role, intertwining the characters’ struggles with a more somber narrative. While this approach might excite older fans yearning for mature storytelling, it understandably raised eyebrows among executives. With Pokemon’s primary audience still being children, the concern about exposing young viewers to such heavy topics reportedly stalled the project.
A Risk Worth Taking?
Pokemon has never shied away from exploring serious themes. Pokemon: The First Movie dealt with existentialism, sacrifice, and the morality of cloning, leaving an indelible mark on fans. Ash’s dramatic sacrifice and Mewtwo’s ethical struggles are moments that still resonate with those who grew up with the franchise. The question remains: Could the franchise push the envelope again, or is it better to play it safe?
Fans argue that kids today are capable of handling more complex narratives, especially given the diverse and mature storytelling found in modern media. Moreover, older fans, many of whom started their Pokemon journey in the late ’90s, are now adults craving stories that reflect their evolved tastes. A movie like Bauer could bridge this generational gap, proving that Pokemon is more than just a nostalgic franchise it’s a timeless one.
What Does the Future Hold?
The absence of a new Pokemon movie since 2020 feels like an anomaly. The gap is particularly striking given anime’s meteoric rise in global popularity during the pandemic. Titles like Demon Slayer: Mugen Train and Jujutsu Kaisen 0 shattered box office records, proving that anime films have never been more lucrative. Pokemon, with its unparalleled brand recognition, is perfectly poised to capitalize on this trend but it hasn’t.
Fans are hopeful that this hiatus is simply the calm before the storm. The leaked details about Bauer have sparked excitement, and the possibility of a rebooted movie universe with darker undertones is tantalizing. After all, Pokemon has always thrived on its ability to evolve, both in games and storytelling.
Why We Should Be Excited
If done right, Pokemon Movie #24 could mark a revolutionary chapter for the franchise. By balancing mature themes with the timeless charm of the Pokemon world, the film could cater to both its loyal fanbase and new generations of viewers. Imagine revisiting Kanto through a modern lens, experiencing an emotionally charged story where Mew isn’t just a mythical creature but a symbol of hope amidst adversity.
As fans, we should embrace the potential for Pokemon to explore new territory. The leaked synopsis may seem ambitious, but ambition has always been the heart of Pokemon’s success. After all, the franchise taught us to dream big, to aim to be the very best. And perhaps, the next movie will remind us why Pokemon remains a cornerstone of pop culture.
Until then, the anticipation only builds. Whether Bauer becomes a reality or another vision takes its place, one thing is clear: Pokemon’s next step in the movie universe has the potential to be legendary.