Pokémon Concierge (TV Mini Series 2023) Poster

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8/10
Aww this was so sweet and heartwarming, such genuine heart to it!
Foreverisacastironmess12329 December 2023
Well this was certainly very different but I was charmed almost immediately by the felt, you know the fuzzy part of some of the Pokemon, made me wanna reach right out and pet them! I thought the first episode was a little slow but that was fine because it was an establishing episode, we're meeting this new character who's not a trainer, nice refreshing change, and the animation was so terrifically different and bright and cheerful, but it's quite visually loveable and it gets to the heart of the matter quite gracefully, I really loved the lessons that it had to tell were done in a really subtle kind of way that wasn't too overbearing and they didn't have to yell it out loud to you, saying stuff like you may not be perfect or the best at swimming or whatever but you're still special just like you are, you don't have to be, I loved the episode with the Magikarp that lost its rubber swimming ring, and the thrilling ride on the Dragonite, I don't think I've ever seen the Pokemon look so cool and loveable and just, gracefully dragon-like in flight before, and it had a Snorlax too, which is a big plus because he's my favourite he just does his own thing lol. This was very nice indeed and mellow and just a lot of simple wholesome fun, it's cool to see Pokemon in a different way than battling, just a very nice surprise, I thought it would be for babies going by how it looked in the first images I saw, but I was very intrigued just the same and it didn't disappoint. This really cheered me up, it was possibly the most genuinely sweet thing I've seen in ages! Wonderful, what a little joy of a show. I already want more! 💓
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8/10
Awesome Animation
tvbyrpmg4 January 2024
Beautiful stop motion animation. This has a special warmth about it that I, personally, don't find in the original cartoon. I always connected with the cards but struggled a bit with the animated series.

I loved the breadth of pokemon we see in a few short episodes. The sounds and dialogue are less grating than typical anime genre shows. The stories could mature a bit. But overall they created a world that was creative, comforting and a feast for the eyes.

. I love this visual addition to the Pokeverse. I'd love to get to know the characters even more. I hope for more episodes with expanded storylines soon!
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7/10
Good except for the very end
calahao30 December 2023
Japanese stop motion is generally underappreciated, so I'm glad a franchise as big as Pokemon is utilising it. Indeed, this is high quality animation on a technical level, with extreme fluidity, though this can backfire as the "flawed" quirks of stop-motion have largely been ironed over.

The four episode story follows Haru and her mid-life crisis being healed by her stay and eventual employment at a Pokemon resort. She gets some advice from her quirky colleagues and gets to bond with a Psyduck. Overall a charming story...

... except for the very last episode, which has quite an anti-disability message. It's also mercifully short at least.

Overall, if not for that final dud it is a charming little series. Just skip the last episode.
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10/10
Gorgeous slice of life
ladyliliroche28 December 2023
Gorgeous stop animation Pokemon! What could you ask for more?

It looks amazing. The pokemons are so cute and the stories are so relaxing. I ended up watching the english dub just to hear the english pokemon's name.

I do wish the series is longer but I understand how difficult and time consuming stop animation is. Everything for me was perfect. It is a nice relaxing story, perfect for kids and adults.

There is no battle, just pokemon and humans living together, trying to find themselves in this gorgeous looking holiday island.

I do hope there will be a sequel for this. I want to see more Pokemon and more slice of life stories. Maybe they should make more of that camping commercial too. I would love to see it.
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10/10
Gorgeous addition to the Pokémon Universe
Opossumsocks29 December 2023
So refreshing to see something new and creative on Netflix! The animation is gorgeous and the plot casual and wholesome. There's nothing too exciting or stressful here; no bad guys, battle of serious drama. It's just four short stories about cute Pokémon and their mediocre issues they experience that day. Would make a gorgeous game as it feel very reminiscent of animal crossing!

I'm sure it won't be everyone's cup of tea but as a life-long Pokémon fan, i sat there smiling throughout the whole thing and was left saddened that there were not more episodes. Really wanted to see that sad Houndour!

In short, watch it and support this beautiful addition to creative animation and thanks Pokémon company for daring to do something different. Eres hoping they take this same boldness with their ever deteriorating main series games.
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6/10
aimed for young audience
AvionPrince1625 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Im not really disappointed or uninterested of this TV show its only not aimed for my profile : its more for young people . I still enjoyed to watch it but the simple story , simple characters make the whole thing not that interesting despite an interesting visuals style and some nice animations . I spend a great time watching this anyway but it clearly lack that feeling of a great adventure and i just enjoyed that we also get to know the concierge better and she is not here to be like just an excuse or something and that was great anyway

That simplicity can be explained also by the fact that the episodes in term of lenght are more shorter and it dont really help to get more complex or more attached to the characters . Everything pretty simple and lack of depth and complexity . But the visuals and animations are really great and thats why i spent a great time anyway !
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10/10
An absolute gem which moved me to tears
dzfzckrb28 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
We follow a young woman who wants to reinvent herself after a bad time. She's is initially crushed by the pressure of working as Pokémon Concierge, only to realise it's all in her head and the key is to let go. She manages to pass on this wisdom and better the life of man and mon (excuse the pun) alike.

I felt all the love the creators have poured into this, the Pokémon are off the charts cute and the story works well. It's only 4 episodes, but then again, it feels to me that's the perfect amount. I was looking forward to having a new cutesy Pokémon series, while I enjoyed the Detective Pikachu film, the depiction of Pokémon was sometimes a bit to realistic, Concierge does not suffer from this, everything is just so nice and friendly.

While I tend to be quite a snob when it comes to film, I wanna feel all the emotions and have real life stories, this series does the one thing that nothing else seems to be capable of - It just makes me happy! The shy Psyduck who's afraid to hurt others with its powers, the silent pikachu, who's not a bubbly icon and wants to keep to himself, there's room for all of them, maybe even for me.
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7/10
An unusual Pokemon midia for adults. Naive adults, yes, but adults.
rudykawa22 January 2024
This very brief mini-series brings the story of a young female that gets a job at a resort for Pokemons. The four episodes show her journey from insecurity of what it's expected from her to becoming a reliable employee.

That's it. The story is very simple and couldn't be much different considering both the short running time of the show and the show's direction. Considering the protagonist and her arc I'm not sure if this show would be popular amongst children even though the messages are told in a very naive and gentile manner and the art style is very cute. I would argue the show aims more towards adults that wants to consume a naive and simple narrative with a subject they can relate. The atmosphere is of a more calm and contemplative nature than the typical action, explosion, chases, screams, that usually is used when your public is more juvenile.

The art style is unique and fits the Pokemon universe quite well making all of them not only look but almost synesthestically soft and fluffy. The stop-motion animation might feel strange for a lot of viewers, specially younger ones that are more used to only the flashy CGIs from past decades.

It's a Pokemon midia that feels different from what the franchise usually delivers and one should be grateful that the Pokemon Company realizes that the franchise is already 25 years old and so it has fans that are not younger kids anymore. They don't need to abandon the naive and simple nature of its story and characters (Ghible movies are naive and simple, and yet not childish), but it is possible to do it focusing in adult themes and adult protagonists. Hopefully GameFreak will expand their view also in their games and create fresher narratives and mechanics so that the franchise doesn't stagnate in time. Embracing all layers of the fans from a franchise is a way of not end up becoming just a relic of time like many media made exclusively for kids (Teletubbies, Banana in Pajamas, Dora, etc).
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9/10
Cute and Adorable
shopnil-504616 January 2024
It's so sweet and relaxing animation. Had a great fun watching it. This adds a new dimension in the pokemon universe as the series successfully shows the pokemon world from a different perspective.

The stories are short but they were impactful. Each episode gives us a message especially the last episode teach us a great life lesson.

The main protagonist was great as it should be. The other characters were also unique in their own way adding different colours to the story.

The animation was top-notch. This animation make the pokemon much cuter and adorable making the anime so sweet to watch.

Also the song was too beautiful.

Finally, Psyduck as the main pokemon was a treat for me. Personally Psyduck is my favourite pokemon and it looked so adorable making the series an absolute blast for me.
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7/10
That's when good Psyduck become good friends...
owen-watts6 April 2024
This achingly sweet little self-contained series sees the earnestly anxious Haru reaching a bit of an existential impass and trying to find herself whilst working at a resort for knackered Pokémon (presumably tired from all the imprisonment and blood sports). It's transfixingly serene and extraordinarily beautiful but so, so brief. It's more like looking at a beautifully made diorama than actually watching a series. I kept finding myself longing for episodes of the old 90s series to be re-done in this beguilingly detailed stop-motion style. Except for the Poké-rap. Nobody needs to see that in more detail.
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10/10
Heartwarming journey back to happiness
natu-3838029 December 2023
I had the opportunity to revisit the Pokémon universe with my little cousin, and at 31, I found myself utterly captivated by the enchanting world once again. The animation is nothing short of spectacular, bringing to life the beloved characters in a way that both kids and adults can appreciate.

While the storyline may be concise, its simplicity adds to its charm, making it a perfect watch for all ages. What struck me the most were the profound life lessons subtly woven into the episodes. One particular piece of wisdom resonated deeply with me: "Don't search for something you're good at; search for something that makes you happy." It's a message that transcends age, offering genuine and timeless advice.

The overall experience felt like a warm hug for the soul. The nostalgic trip down memory lane coupled with the modern appeal of the animation made it an absolute joy. I wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone seeking not only a delightful escape into the Pokémon world but also a gentle reminder of the simple yet profound lessons that bring happiness to our lives.
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2/10
I was expecting greatness, not boredom
rich-121693 January 2024
This is a show? Are you sure? What is it about exactly?

Ok so I have always loved anything pokemon related, but is this actually pokemon related? There are pokemon in it, i see that, but they dont act like pokemon. And does this show really remind you of the pokemon world/ universe we are all used to?

People get paid to treat pokemon at a day spa? How, Who pays them. Or is the world a utopia where people dont have money? Im just saying, none of that fits the world of pokemon that I know.

So the show looks great from pictures, but it looks awful as a video. I loved ONI, and this looks like the same studio, it has the same everything, except charm! Not charmander, charm!

Maybe its because i am an adult male and this show is aimed at little girls. That is a possibility. I found this show to be devoid of any charm and it is so lifeless and slow that i simply could not watch more than 1 episode.

Do you know what a concierge is? Well neither does the show apparently.
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9/10
Pokemon slice of life I've been wanting for forever
hazard11130 December 2023
I've played the game since I was a child and it has a special place in my heart. This show honestly hits the spot I've been missing. I've always wanted to live in Pokemon world (of course that's impossible) so I was hoping for a game that's like an Animal Crossing/Harvest moon type for Pokemon but alas... so this show fulfills it. It's heartwarming slice of life. I even cried. It's like it healed something in me.

Rating it a 9 because it's too short. Would've wanted more to really flesh out the characters and the scenes more. But other than that I have no issues. It's so fun to see the models. I keep pausing just to admire the work. I wish they'd release merchandise for this. I want a miniature setup in my room.
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10/10
Inspired and deft short
josearc28 December 2023
As a lifelong Pokémon fan, I've always wanted a show like this: a piece that explores the relationship between people and Pokémon in a casual setting. The GameCube's Pokémon Channel was really the first and only time I remember. Pokémon Concierge is a short but delightful slice of Pokémon media. There's no thrilling battles here. Instead we get Haru, a down-on-her-luck office employee who takes a job at the Pokémon Resort for a change in scenery.

The series artfully blends cute Pokémon visuals with stories about how Haru helps Pokémon and in doing so learns a little about herself. At around 60 minutes total runtime, it's a must-watch for ANY Pokémon fan, regardless of age.

If I had one nitpick it's that the first episode is far weaker than the following three as it serves as mostly introduction.
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9/10
Wonderful, so cute
HappyChildOfGod31 December 2023
An inspiring life! It was so cute. Feel good episodes. Perfect to relax and just be happy.

No problems, just tranquility and fun!

Perfect stop motion animation. Very well made. Perfect for kids and adults with young heart!

Perfect for the family.

Too bad there's only just four episodes, hopefully they produce more.

It's a very different kind of show, haven't seeing nothing like it. But it was perfect! Brought me a huge smile! We need more shoes like this, no violence. Creative and cute.

This next part is extra. This show Made me wanna be there, in the island. Be that peaceful, and just happy.
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10/10
Fun and unique show
nothanks-2323331 December 2023
I really enjoyed seeing another side of the Pokémon world. Not everything has to be about battles and catching them all. Seeing Pokémon enjoying the resort and learning life lessons was a lot of fun. I loved the stop motion animation too, which was very nostalgic as it reminded me of great movies like the Nightmare Before Christmas and Coraline. The attention to detail was very impressive. But four episodes is too few!!! I really hope they make a lot more. Netflix has a habit of only funding a single season of each show. They should start investing long term in their projects and this show would be a great start. Please make more!
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9/10
A great, refreshing addition to the world of Pokemon
mini_colster16 January 2024
I had no idea what to expect from this show, but after watching the 4 episodes in one go I was really pleasantly surprised.

Firstly, the aesthetics were amazing. The sunny island was really brought to life with its colours and textures. It's a place you will desperately want to visit. I loved the fuzzy textures of some of the pokemon even if they perhaps felt a bit too toy-like at times. The animation overall was done really well.

What I also liked was that, while there were certainly some very cutesy and emotional scenes, it wasn't overdone and was interspersed with plenty of humour and everyday life. Some of the other series are so oversweet in that respect and I was worried I was going to get the same, but I was happy to see it was more balanced. It made me laugh and smile and shed a couple of tears. There were also some pearls of wisdom that I think a lot of people can benefit from.

I really hope we get more episodes in the future and I urge any pokemon fan to give it a go.
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1/10
Terrible
charming_movielover30 December 2023
I love Pokémon. I have played every game, read every book, and watched every show/movie, and was excited for this series.

But this is terrible. The art style is awful. I hate stop motion and it isn't appropriate for Pokémon whose movements are supposed to be fluid and even magical.

The main character is completely unlikeable. She's just dumped. Great. I watch shows with that trope all the time, and it can be interesting, but give her a personality. She does nothing but exist and go where she is told.

The story is stupid, and it isn't even really about Pokémon. They just happen to be in the story (sometimes).

A complete waste of time.
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10/10
So wholesome I wanted to die
K_Rad8814 January 2024
I seriously was just saying 'awwwww' the entire time I was watching this show. The stop animation was just flawless. Seeing what they think pokémon's textures would be was so cool. Some were furry, some smooth.... they are just so freaking adorable it's insane. It just has cute little messages through it but it's suitable for everyone to enjoy!

Highly recommend, I'm reviewing at episode 4 because so far that's all out but I can only see it getting more fun as we go further down the track. I especially love the jungle environment and all the free roaming little pokemon enjoying themselves and the friendly characters.
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8/10
Great
coles_notes4 March 2024
After re-getting Netflix for the new Avatar and needing something to sponge out my brain this recommendation immediately caught my eye. A big fan of Pokemon growing up, and an even bigger fan of animation now, Pokemon Concierge was a treat through and through. Fun in both its lighthearted stories of life on a serene Pokemon island resort as well as its stunning stop motion animation, seeing each new pokemon and how they'd been crafted was joy. Primarily following Haru, played by Non, the newest employee and concierge at the Pokemon resort as she helps visiting Pokemon make the most of their vacations. Equally impressive and adorable, and very short and sweet at only 4 sub 20 minute episodes, it made for a great afternoon watch. Would recommend to anyone and everyone, and especially fans of Pokemon to begin with. I look forward to hopefully seeing more.
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5/10
Kakko warui na PIKACHU
daisukereds22 January 2024
One word : Production.

This is a very short (4 episode), simple and slow show that aims to spread the appeal of Game Freak's cute creatures with impressive slow-motion animation. This is certainly made for kids, and probably as part of the continuous marketing push TPC to sell more merchandise (how Pokémon really makes money). Sadly, I personally didn't get much from it, as the 15 minute shorts barely have any content for a 30+ year old guy like me.. especially for someone who has experienced a falling out with the gaming franchise due to their practices and a lacking desire from improvement. This show just goes to show they are happily content with giving other (more passionate) companies try their hand at spreading it to newer generations in different manners. And so, it is this that sentiment to "milk it" that partially makes me not enjoy it aside from the production value.

But it is cute, appealing and a heartwarming view of what such a world would be like aside from battles. Though, it could have certainly been more..
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