Pokemon 1: Pokemon, I Choose You!

Airdate: April 1^st, 1997

Summary: Ash has a bad alarm clock, some sweet rubber gloves, and a terrible rival. Professor Oak has the best character design in this show, this dude makes listening to Kenny Loggins while making new Pokémon discoveries seem like a breeze. Pikachu’s electric first impression spells trouble for Ashy boy. Spearow gets jealous, gets rocked, and calls their boys to gang up on our hapless trainer, who resorts to bike theft. Pikachu makes a bang and gets them out of trouble. Our origin story is complete. Also, that last Pikachu lick in the end is priceless. 

Best Trainer/Pokémon: Gary, the dude has an entourage already.

Worst Trainer/Pokémon: Ash is in the initial learning stages, but somehow, he knows nothing about Pokémon training. Aren’t there academies to prepare these kids?

One thing I learned: Ten-year old’s in the Kanto Region can legally possess fire-breathing dragons. They are also expected to fend for themselves, which I guess is cool, but when I was ten I couldn’t cook for myself or get a job so I might have to engage in some mental gymnastics watching this show. 

Pikachu-o-meter: 5/5 A classic Pikachu performance, but he might need to go on weight watchers to perfect his quick attack. 

Best Quote: “Don’t forget to change your underwear, every, single, day”-Delia Ketchum

Best Scene: Ash’s feet as he sneaks up on Pidgey.