Early Reactions To ‘Detective Pikachu’ Call The Film ‘Relentlessly Charming’ And Worldbuilding

From the moment that the first Detective Pikachu trailer dropped, Pokémon obsessives have possibly been too excited. Indeed, it’s still difficult to believe that this movie, starring Ryan Reynolds as the voice of the adorable rodent, actually exists. Of course, Reynolds has been all in for this film’s wind-up promotional efforts, just as he was for Deadpool. All of that enthusiasm was infectious, and with special touches like a Se7en-inspired Mr. Mime scene, May 10 can’t arrive soon enough.

Early reactions from a Tuesday night critics’ screening are now rolling in, and it sounds like fans will not be disappointed in the slightest. In fact, they’ll probably want even more after watching the franchise’s first live-action/animation hybrid, which tears through Ryme City’s sprawling metropolis where Pokémon and humans peacefully co-exist, although their relations could be threatened if Pikachu (Reynolds) doesn’t unravel a mystery with help from Tim Goodman (Justice Smith). The reactions so far have been overwhelmingly positive with Nerdist’s Dan Casey whipping out the “relentlessly charming” descriptor and also calling the movie surprisingly emotional.

— Dan Casey (@DanCasey) April 24, 2019

IMDb’s Ian de Borja (who calls the movie “painfully cute”) isn’t the only one who wants to move to Ryme City now. He’s joined by Collider’s Dave Trumbore in this sentiment.

— Ian de Borja (@iandeborja_) April 24, 2019

Just saw #DetectivePikachu here in Tokyo and, man, I wish Ryme City was a real place because I really want a Pokémon pal. pic.twitter.com/4cvtG0Uquu

— LoTron Prime Dave Trumbore (@DrClawMD) April 24, 2019

Other critics agree, including IGN’s Terri Schwartz, JoBlo’s Paul Shirley, YouTuber Anna Brisbin, and ComicBook.com’s Megan Peters, most of whom call out the movie’s worldbuilding potential (and cuteness).

— Terri Schwartz (@Terri_Schwartz) April 24, 2019

Had a fun time with Detective Pikachu. Silly, heartfelt and chock full of Pokémon, which makes for some great world building in what is sure to spin off into one hell of a franchise. Perfectly suited for fans and non-fans alike. #DetectivePikachu @DetPikachuMovie @joblocom

— Paul Shirey (@arcticninjapaul) April 24, 2019

I just saw @DetPikachuMovie for the SECOND time and WOW guys. Get hype for this film’s release on May 10 because it is SUCH wild ride. SO fun and so good!! Mind blowing at moments even!!

THANK YOU WB for inviting me to see it!! #PikaPika ⚡️ #DetectivePikachu #WBpartner pic.twitter.com/nzQCTKkbq0

— Anna Brisbin ❄️ (@BrizzyVoices) April 24, 2019

It‘s a hit for #DetectivePikachu. Pokemon fans new & old will rejoice in this heartfelt and authentic take on the franchise. @Legendary and @wbpictures have nailed this live-action adaptation. I laughed hard and felt my heart swell. This Pokemon film is just the start! pic.twitter.com/I0R9fSHpfU

— Megan Peters (@meganpeterscb) April 24, 2019

Major Miyazaki vibes from this scene in particular. @VancityReynolds and @standup4justice made for a super effective duo. #DetectivePikachu pic.twitter.com/dO4gwQNoUY

— Dan Casey (@DanCasey) April 24, 2019

Detective Pikachu arrives in theaters on May 10.