Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Borget
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Anime adventure focuses on family; some peril, violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle
What's the Story?
POKÉMON THE MOVIE: SECRETS OF THE JUNGLE is a Japanese animated film about a young boy named Koko (Kimlinh Tran) who is found as a baby and raised in the jungle by a solitary Pokémon. In the jungle the Zarude are aggressive, territorial Pokémon who like to be left alone. So when Dada (Edward Bosco) adopts Koko, his pack isn't happy. Years later he meets Ash (Sarah Natochenny) and Pikachu, who are visiting on a trip, and Koko discovers the human world. They uncover a plot that threatens the jungle, Koko's home, and all the creatures in it. Throughout the story Dada and Koko express their love for one another as family, but Koko also wants to teach his father and the other Zarude that being different is ok, and that humans and Pokémon can coexist.
Is It Any Good?
This Pokémon tale is worth a watch, especially for new fans of the franchise. It's a familiar tale about a boy raised in the jungle, not realizing he's actually human until an unlikely encounter (see Tarzan and The Jungle Book). Here the story is combined with greedy humans wanting to destroy the jungle (Avatar, The Lorax, and Ferngully). Add some Pokémon, and you get this movie. It's not necessarily a bad thing, but it does make the movie somewhat predictable. The nice thing is, those unfamiliar with the Pokémon franchise will still find it enjoyable and easy to follow, and seasoned fans may enjoy the new characters and scenery. It's a positive, visually-delightful film with beautiful 2D animation and an easy-to-grasp message.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Koko and his life between two worlds. Do you think he belongs with the Pokémon or with humans? How did he adapt to life in the jungle with Pokémon? Why wasn't he accepted right away? Why does Dada decide to raise Koko?
How can humans and animals coexist together? What are ways we can help take care of the planet?
Have you seen other Pokémon movies? How does this story compare? How is the animation style similar or different than other movies?
How do the characters in this movie demonstrate compassion, friendship, and courage? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : October 8, 2021
- Cast : Sarah Natochenny , Kellen Goff , Ikue Otani , Edward Bosco , James Carter Cathcart
- Director : Tetsuo Yajima
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Bisexual Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Anime
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage
- Run time : 99 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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