Mewtwo Returns!

The English language version of Mewtwo Ware Wa Kokoni Ari is just that: an English Language version. Unlike the editing, redubbing, story cleanup and moralisation of the first movie, this sequel remains almost entirely intact. The only major changes were the soundtrack, credits, the title screen and the theme song. In my opinion, some of these even IMPROVED the feature. The replacement of the TV theme (in this case, “OK!”) with a generic movie title page, the likes of which have used in the theatrical releases worked to the film’s advantage. The title screen was, of course, identical to that of the first movie. Back-to-the-future style text reading “Pokemon! Mewtwo returns!”. I also enjoyed the remix of “Mewtwo’s theme”. (you all know what I mean, the sonorous base-and-bells piece played near the start of Pokemon: The First Movie) The remix, with drums and electric guitar was actually very refreshing.
Rather than the base-and-bells piece, the Japanese versions both use the haunting pipe organ theme which has become Mewtwo’s trademark in the land of the rising sun.

The film’s biggest translatory downfall was it’s attempt to reuse the soundtrack (that and overuse of the word ‘peace’, just as we plan to sue over overuse of the word destiny in P:1 , so it will be with "peace".) Instead of keeping the background music that Ware Wa Kokoni Ari! employed, or even the original background music of Mewtwo’s Counterattack, the producers attempted to graft the entire background album of the first movie into this one. The effect is a rather stilted musical undertone that does not always fit the scene.

The end credits are replaced entirely – to a very nice, melancholy effect! With the TV release of Ware Wa Kokoni Ari! The televison series' current ending theme was used (Bokuro no Best Friend – Our Best Friend) albeit with altered animation, featuring Mewtwo along with Satoshi and Pikachuu. For the English language release this was simply cropped off, and the musical track “three-on-three” and “Mew’s Theme” (Pokemon the first movie original motion picture score BGM CD, released by KOCH records, published by ((and we aint kidding—))Mewtwo music ((presumably the same people from Pikachu music and Vaporeon music))) played as a blank black background rolled by.

My only complaints were these:

All in all this release was handled with much greater finesse than Mewtwo Strikes Back was, because it remained almost entirely a straight translation rather than a tidied up, socially acceptable kiddie film. This is an indicator of 4Kids and WB maturing as adaptors. Because Ware Wa Kokoni Ari! was originally a TV special, there are points where intended commercial breaks are obvious, but nothing glaring.

Points I especially enjoyed: This comment is not strictly for the dub – the animation was great! Mewtwo is far better drawn now than he ever was before. Looking much slighter, and less awkward than in his first film outing, the animation has gained fluidity. Domino was stupendous. Excellent choice of voice actor, wonderful character. A few more nicknames than most people rattle out, but what the hey! Mewtwo also was given more ‘movement’ time. With fewer head shots, we actually get to see Mewtwo walk (proving my cat theory) learn that he does indeed have teeth, and that there is a way to sit down when you have a tail.

Final rating? Out of a possible five stars for animated movie, we give three. Good translation, good voice acting, satisfactory plot. Unfortunate music grafting, occasional cheesy dialogue, morals poking at the viewer.

Kokowa Dokoda gives Mewtwo Returns a multijointed thumbs up!

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