What is Pokemon Concierge?  

Pokémon Concierge is a four-episode series recently released by Netflix and licensed by The Pokémon Company’s official media franchise.

Unlike most Pokémon films and series, Pokémon Concierge takes on a fresh route that has captivated loyal Pokémon fans and even those new to the Pokémon world.

So, in this article, we’ll explore important facts about Pokémon Concierge—its plot, studio development, reactions to its release, and available merchandise.

Without further ado, allow our Zenmarket concierge to say, “Welcome to the Pokémon Resort!”

 

 

What Happens in Pokémon Concierge?

The Pokémon Concierge series tells the story of the novice concierge, Haru, and her laid-back adventures in the Pokémon Resort where Pokémon and their owners are the guests.

Haru’s job as a concierge is straightforward—keep the Pokémon happy every day.

That job description sounds pretty simple. But for Haru, it’s a completely different story.

In a voiceover in the first few seconds of the Pokémon Concierge series, Haru reveals that the past week was an absolute nightmare for her. She got dumped by her boyfriend, fumbled important presentations at work, and unfortunately stepped on chewing gum multiple times.

Fresh from her recent mishaps, Haru tries to start anew and find meaning in her new role and for herself.

Here’s a quick walkthrough of Pokémon Concierge’s episodes:

Episode 1 – I’m Haru, the New Concierge!

Under the guidance of the Pokémon Resort’s manager, Ms. Watanabe, Haru learns how to accommodate guests and their Pokémon. But first, Ms. Watanabe requests Haru to be a guest first.

Throughout her first day as a resort guest, Haru encounters various Pokémon. She also shares amusing moments with fellow staff members like Tyler and Alisa and realizes some insights about her problems.

As the episode concludes, Haru receives a unique assignment from Ms. Watanabe—connect with a Pokémon and be yourself.

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Episode 2 – What’s on Your Mind, Psyduck?

In Pokémon Concierge’s second episode, Haru grapples with the challenges of her new role at the resort.

Determined to bond with the shy Psyduck, Haru faces mishaps before proposing a solution to help Psyduck control its psychic abilities.

The episode concludes with a heartwarming montage showcasing Haru and Psyduck’s growing bond between them under the starlit sky.

Episode 3 – I Hope I Can Evolve Too…

Pokémon Concierge’s third episode highlights Haru’s contemplation on personal growth as she encounters more challenges and opportunities at work.

Witnessing the physical evolution of some Pokémon inspired Haru to some thoughts on her personal evolution.

The episode reaches a turning point when Haru and Psyduck encounter a struggling Magikarp that eventually evolved into a majestic Gyarados. This encounter led to a night of reflection and determination for Haru’s own transformative journey.

Episode 4 – Welcome to the Pokémon Resort!

In the series’ final episode, Haru meets Nao and his Pikachu.

Nao sought Haru’s help to make his Pikachu braver and more sociable. Despite Haru’s various attempts to help Nao’s Pikachu, nothing changed.

It was only when Haru reflected on self-acceptance that she managed to convince Nao to let Pikachu be Pikachu.

The final episode concludes with Nao and Pikachu leaving the resort and Nao expressing gratitude to Haru. The surprising arrival of a massive Wailord marks an exciting addition to the Pokémon Resort’s clientele.

Also Read: Rare Pikachu Pokemon Illustrator Card sells for $772,000!

 

How was Pokémon Concierge Made?

Ever since word came out that Netflix and The Pokémon Company were collaborating to produce a new Pokémon series, many people can’t help but also wonder how this masterpiece was produced.

Here’s a quick rundown of some important production facts:

Conceptualization and Development of Pokémon Concierge

Talks about creating a new and unique Pokémon series started as early as 2019 when The Pokémon Company was also producing Detective Pikachu.

In 2021, a media outlet exclusively spoke to Hidenaga Katakami of The Pokémon Company and reported that a Pokémon series was in the works with Netflix and Dwarf Studios.

On the 27th of February 2023 (a.k.a The Pokémon Day 2023), Pokémon Concierge’s first teaser was released.

Alongside that, Netflix released this official statement:

“Netflix is looking forward to delighting fans in Japan and around the world with ‘Pokémon Concierge’, an entirely new visual and storytelling experience featuring ground-breaking stop-motion animation set in the Pokémon world in close collaboration with The Pokémon Company.”

Iku Ogawa was tapped to direct the Pokémon Concierge series.

 

Pokémon Concierge’s Stop-Motion Art

Easily the most outstanding feature of Pokémon Concierge is the use of Stop-Motion Animation. Adobe describes this as an ‘advanced flipbook-style form of animation’. It involves photographing and manipulating objects in small increments.

This was the first time in the Pokémon franchise that stop-motion animation was used.

The producers wanted to showcase the Pokémon’s unique physical features like their textures, movements, and responses to environmental stimuli. More importantly, they wanted to bring Pokémon close to life and show the fun side.

Buy Pokemon Merch From Japan!

 

Pokémon Concierge’s Cast

The series features both Japanese and English voice actors.

Rena Nōnen, professionally known as Non, voiced the lead character Haru. Other Japanese actors who joined the cast are:

• Fairouz Ai as Alisa
• Eita Okuno as Tyler
• Hiroshi Kôsaka as Psyduck
• Yoshiko Takemura as Watanabe

For a full list of the series’ cast and their English cast, you can check out this list.

“Have a Good Time Here” by Mariya Takeuchi is the official theme song of Pokémon Concierge.

What is Pokémon Concierge’s Rating?

Pokémon Concierge has received positive praise and ratings from critics and the general audience.

Here are some ratings of Pokémon Concierge from top reviewers:

• IMDb: 7.6/10
• Rotten Tomatoes: 10/10
• Common Sense: 4/5
• IGN: 7/10
• Google Users: 82% liked the TV show

Going through the reviews from different sources and personalities shows that Pokémon Concierge is a breath of fresh air for the Pokémon franchise.

Also Read: How To Buy From Pokemon Center Japan

Fortunately, this time viewers are treated to a show that focuses on the deep connection between Pokémon and human beings. The low-stakes plot makes it also relatable for many viewers, especially in terms of work, relationships, and self-fulfillment.

Many viewers can’t also help but bring up the subtle tones of workplace burnout and a need for people to find time to look inward.

Not to forget, it’s a unanimous vote of approval for Pokémon Concierge’s visuals.

Is Pokémon Concierge Merchandise Available?

Quick answer—YES!

Beginning on the 20th of January 2024, the Pokémon Center released several interesting Pokémon Concierge merchandise that will bring this show to life.

 

 

Some of the most coveted items include Haru’s Hawaiian shirts and bandanas, Psyduck eyemasks, and Bellsprout LED Lamps.

These items will be available at all Pokémon Centers in Japan. An even better option is to check out The Pokémon Center Online’s website.

Also Read: How To Buy From The Japanese Pokemon Center

Conclusion

Pokémon Concierge tells the story of Haru as a new concierge in The Pokémon Resort. Though coming from many setbacks, Haru discovers new perspectives about life and herself as she interacts with other Pokémon and workers there.

Combined together, the show’s plot, stop-motion animation, and themes have captivated critics and the general audience for good reasons.

The Pokémon Concierge series reminds viewers to look outward to the people (and Pokémon) we connect with and to look inward to ourselves, too.

 

 

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