GOTCHA!

"We're still a long way from where we want to go, but I could stay here the rest of my life"

Anybody that has seen my profile can tell that I'm not one to give ten out of tens easily, but never have I seen such a well-crafted and directed music video that manages to encapsulate every single aspect of the Pokémon franchise.

{SPOILERS AHEAD}

As bright and vibrant chimes open up the song, the image of the four boys walking on a railroad starts to set in. Our adventure starts. As our trainers follow their journey, we see the many faces we've met before, the supportive friends who we have shared joy and laughter with throughout our journey, and the strong foes that serve to constantly remind us how large the world is. Whether it's an aerial battle with Lance of the Hoenn elite four with his iconic Dragonite, or a heavyweight all-out bout against Champion Steven and his shiny Mega Metagross, a flood of attacks with Gym Leader Wallace and the majestic Milotic, or the championship finals with the iconic Cynthia and Garchomp, a high five from Iris, and the majestic Diantha and Mega Gardevoir, we're reminded of the journey and the hardships we have faced and beyond. The bonds formed from Z-Moves and the berserk and rampant gigantamax fights have never been more exciting as trainers continue to battle on. Rosa and Nate go head to head in a double battle in Unova, as Tierno, Trevor, and Shauna smile for the camera in Kalos. As Serena and her Greninja face Mewtwo, in the next region Elio, Hau, Gladion, Selene, and Lillie pose for their Z-Moves as they yell "ALOLA!" with a smile. As Hilbert and Hilda zoom out of N's eye, the scene shifts to the shadow of Mars. The light at the end of the cave illuminates the faces of Brendan and May as the door leading to the top is blocked by Blue. The final showdown plays out as Tyranitar is blocking simultaneous attacks from Blastoise, Lapras and a certain Charizard. Cornered, Ethan sends out Ampharos which sends a shock past Blastoise and sends Red's cap flying. GOTCHA! leaves none of the journeys out, and continues beyond that.

The key sequences done by Matsumoto Rie are simply brilliant and wholesome. Bones is finally back to animating good content ever since Mob Psycho season 2 ended in January of 2019. Bump of Chicken managed to drop another banger of a song, and it's probably up there with Answer and possibly even Fighter for me. If you are a Pokémon fan, GOTCHA! leaves nothing to be desired.

My rate: 10/10

"We’re still a long way from where we want to go, but I could stay here for the rest of my life. Next to you, here by your side, my soul cries out that this is where I belong. Through tears, through laughter, through good times or bad, I want you in the good seats, our breaths in perfect harmony"