Pokémon Detective Pikachu Movie Review | Safe for Kids?

Is Pokémon Detective Pikachu ok for kids? Should your kids see the new live-action Pokémon Detective Pikachu Movie Review | Safe for Kids?, an honest parents guide and mom review of the newest Warner Bros.animated film. No spoilers! #DetectivePikachu May contain commissioned links.

Pokémon Detective Pikachu Movie Review | Safe for Kids?

I choose you, Pikachu – cheesy line or deeper meaning?

I’ll admit that Warner Bros. had an impossible task: bridge the gap between nostalgic super fan kids turned adults and today’s obsessed gaming/app generation. And while the hype of the 1999 The Pokémon Movie had fans craving more, taking a spin-off video game and creating a stand alone movie – was Warner Bros. reaching for a little more than a trip down memory lane?

In this Pokémon Detective Pikachu Movie Review | Safe for Kids?, I’m talking visuals, the story, a full PG rating breakdown, and sharing whether I’ll be letting my own kids see this fan crazed film. A no spoiler parent review – this is the post you want to read before rushing your kids to see Ryan Reynolds let off some potential “Deadpool” humor.

The Visuals

Cue all the cute Pokémon! While I couldn’t name more than two Pokémon creatures prior to this film (yes, one was Pikachu), I have to say that the CGI visuals of this film definitely have you reaching to give these fluffy and cute creatures a big old hug. Creating a world where Pokémon and people live together – it was definitely a big visual task. Between the bright colors, cartoon-y style and balancing with reality – I was a believer. 

The Story

When you take a spin-off video game and turn it into a full-fledged movie – were you honestly expecting an earth shattering plot line? Nope, not me. And honestly with very low expectations for a story, I walked away pleasantly surprised. Predictable yet still entertaining, these adorable creatures definitely take you for a ride into a universe where I left scratching my head a bit, but I at least can recognize a few more Pokémon creatures (but definitely cannot spell).

More superficial with a focus on the relationship of the Pokémon with the humans, this movie certainly does not dive deep into the geekiness of the fan cult. But there’s definitely enough substance that had the Pokémon addicted audience cheering in the theater, on more than one occasion.

That PG Rating

Is Pokémon Detective Pikachu safe for kids? As you may have noticed from my previous movie reviews, not all PG ratings are the same. There’s a big gray area between Christopher Robin PG and Incredibles 2 PG. And parents deserve the chance to decipher whether Pokémon Detective Pikachu is really ok for children to see.

Why is Pokémon Detective Pikachu rated PG? Pokémon Detective Pikachu is rated PG for “action/peril, some rude and suggestive humor, and thematic elements.” But if Ryan Reynolds is taking the lead, is Pokémon Detective Pikachu ok for children?

Language. Are we talking Deadpool language here? Thankfully, no. Even Ryan Reynolds can tone down his potty mouth – with a total of 3 mild language references in this film. Two H-E-double-hockey-sticks and one Damn. I will note that there is a moment when Justice Smith starts to say “oh shhhhhhhhhhh” and one “Oh My g-d” reference as well. Thankfully not put together with damn.

Violence. There are a few in-the-dark suspenseful scenes and possessed looking eyeballs, but mostly with adorable cartoon creatures. So even with super creepy music – not so believable. But definitely potential nightmare territory for younger kids. There are also a few scenes where humans are attacking humans, with a few punches in the face. Overall very mild for a PG movie, the action scenes definitely lean towards younger audiences.

Adult Themes. There’s one scene where a character loses an article of clothing and a line that suggests something in the bedroom. For most kids, this line will go over their heads. But for some parents, it may make you shift in your seat. The line? “I’m actually pretty good at being alone.” And yes, there is a pause. So something for parents to keep in mind.

What Pokémon Detective Pikachu Age Rating is Recommended for Kids?

Is the Pokémon Detective Pikachu movie kid friendly? At 1 hour and 45 minute run time, it’s actually a perfect live-action/cartoon-like film for families.

What age is recommended to watch Pokémon Detective Pikachu? I would recommend kids as young as 5 to 6-years old to be able to watch, keeping in mind the one adult themed line, the 3 instances of swear words, and possible mild suspense. Any kids who are jumpy made need a pre-screen from the parents. My 6-year old daughter and 9-year old son would absolutely love this film.

The Overall

A world where cartoon animals and human live in peace – I think that’s a life lesson we could all use today. There’s no place for discrimination – even with Pokémon. And that’s something to truly be appreciated, no matter what age you are.

I also have to give a nod to casting Justice Smith – a multicultural lead character with a highlight on his multicultural parents. A world of multi-races and multi-Pokémon – certainly I am applauding this on all levels. You also forget how talented Ryan Reynolds is. Without sarcasm and potty humor, he proves that he still an deliver a line well and keep the audience entertained. I love that.

While Pokémon Detective Pikachu was filled with over-nostalgia for Pokémon fans, I did find this film entertaining enough to sit through without groaning. Definitely geared towards younger audiences (perfect for my 6-year old), Pokémon Detective Pikachu has enough mild “Deadpool” like humor to keep parents interested while satisfying the cravings of super fans. Certainly not winning any movie awards, at least this film will keep kids catching ’em all throughout the summer. And maybe giving parents a little peace.

Follow Pokémon Detective Pikachu:

• Website: https://www.detectivepikachumovie.com/
• Instagram: @detectivepikachumovie
• Twitter: @DetPikachuMovie
• Facebook: facebook.com/detectivepikachumovie

Are you taking your kids to see Pokémon Detective Pikachu? Do you think this Warner Bros. live action film is safe for kids?

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All photos courtesy of Warner Bros. I was invited to attend a press screening of Pokémon Detective Pikachu in exchange for this Pokémon Detective Pikachu Movie Review | Safe for Kids? post. Be sure to follow Raising Whasians for more movie updates, celebrity interviews, entertainment and behind-the-scenes info!