‘Mewtwo Strikes Back Evolution’ Debuting on Netflix on Pokemon’s Anniversary!

Mewtwo Strikes Back Evolution is finally coming to the west! It’ll be added to Netflix’s global catalog on February 27th (except in Japan and Korea). The date is notable because it’s Pokemon’s 24th anniversary, which is usually celebrated as “Pokemon Day.”

The movie is a 90% remake of the original, as you can read in my review from July (spoiler alert). The movie was a collaboration between Sprite Animation, a Los Angeles animation studio, and Oriental Light and Magic, the company responsible for animating the Pokemon anime. The Japanese directors worked part-time in Los Angeles to bring the movie to fruition.

The Pokemon Company International issued a press release to us:

BELLEVUE, Wash., and LOS ANGELES—January 21, 2020—The Pokémon Company International and Netflix announced today that the newest animated movie based on the beloved Pokémon franchise will premiere on Netflix around the world outside of Japan and Korea. “Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution” welcomes a new CGI style to animated Pokémon movies and is inspired by one of the most popular stories in the long-running franchise. The movie was a major hit in Japan, where it premiered as one of the top-grossing films during its opening weekend last year.

“The ubiquitous reach and expert team at Netflix make them the perfect partner to bring this special animated movie to kids and fans around the world,” said Emily Arons, senior vice president of international business at The Pokémon Company International. “Netflix is the ideal platform to help us execute a global simultaneous launch of an animated Pokémon movie on Pokémon Day, a special moment dedicated to celebrating the worldwide Pokémon fan community.”

“Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution” synopsis: When researchers discover and exploit a fossil of the Mythical Pokémon Mew, they unleash a creation that goes against the very laws of nature: Mewtwo, a Legendary Pokémon intended for use as a tool of destruction. But as Mewtwo becomes aware of its own dubious origin, it begins to resent its human creators and seeks revenge—and Ash, Pikachu, and their friends find themselves at the center of its rampage! With the future of the Pokémon world at stake, will our heroes be able to overcome Mewtwo’s challenge…and will Mewtwo be able to find a new meaning for its life?