Pokémon Detective Pikachu 2 (2025)

August 18, 2025

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Movie Review: Pokémon Detective Pikachu 2 (2025)

Six years after the surprise success of Detective Pikachu, the world’s favorite electric sleuth is back — and this time, the mystery runs deeper than ever. Pokémon Detective Pikachu 2 (2025) expands the universe, doubles down on the noir-inspired storytelling, and delivers a visually dazzling adventure that both fans and newcomers can enjoy.

The story picks up with Tim Goodman (Justice Smith) working as a junior detective alongside Pikachu (once again voiced with sharp wit by Ryan Reynolds). When a string of strange disappearances in Ryme City points toward an underground Pokémon trafficking ring, the duo uncovers a conspiracy that reaches far beyond what they expected. Their investigation leads them into shadowy alleyways, neon-lit fight clubs, and even forgotten ruins outside the city — places where humans and Pokémon aren’t always partners, but enemies.

Visually, the film is a knockout. The CGI Pokémon blend seamlessly into live-action environments, with even greater detail than before. Fan-favorites like Lucario, Gengar, and Snorlax get memorable screen time, but the real star is a brilliantly animated Mewtwo, whose presence ties the narrative back to the first film in a satisfying way.

Ryan Reynolds continues to bring humor and heart to Pikachu, but the sequel wisely gives the story more emotional weight. Tim’s relationship with his father — and with Pikachu as both a partner and friend — takes center stage. The script balances lighthearted banter with darker, more mature themes, showing how Pokémon stories can grow with their audience.

If there’s a drawback, it’s that the villain feels a little one-dimensional, with their motives spelled out too easily. Still, the journey is so engaging — and the bond between human and Pokémon so heartfelt — that the flaw barely matters.

Verdict:
Pokémon Detective Pikachu 2 (2025) is a funny, stylish, and surprisingly emotional sequel that proves the magic of this world hasn’t faded. With sharp visuals, a bigger mystery, and plenty of Pokémon cameos, it’s everything fans could hope for.

Rating: 8.5/10