Pokemon: Detective Pikachu is working through its opening weekend worldwide. The movie stars Ryan Reynolds as the titular Pokemon, leading some to wonder if the film is really child-friendly. Detective Pikachu also stars Justice Smith as Tim Goodman, Pikachu’s human companion.
What is the Pokemon: Detective Pikachu age rating?
According to the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC), Pokemon: Detective Pikachu has an age rating of PG.
PG stands for Parental Guidance and means: “General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.
“A PG film should not unsettle a child aged around eight or older.
“Unaccompanied children of any age may watch, but parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger, or more sensitive, children.”
In regards to Pokemon: Detective Pikachu, the BBFC cites: “mild fantasy threat” for its reason behind the PG rating.
The Motion Picture Association of America adds: “Rated PG for action/peril, some rude and suggestive humour, and thematic elements.”
There is some mild bad language, including the use of the words ‘hell’ and ‘damn’.
An American website called Common Sense Media writes detailed analyses of movies specifically for child-viewership in mind.
Of Detective Pikachu, they wrote: “parents need to know that Pokémon Detective Pikachu is a mystery adventure set in a fictional city in which humans and Pokémon co-exist.
“Starring Ryan Reynolds as the voice of a Pikachu who can speak to only one human, Tim (Justice Smith), the story explores how the two team up to investigate the supposedly accidental death of Tim’s detective father.
“There’s definitely some violence: Pokémon battle both each other and humans, and there’s destruction (including a fatal car crash) and injuries, but nothing gets bloody or graphic.
“Main characters are frequently in peril, but — despite some close calls — no one dies.
“Language is limited to ‘hell,’ ‘stupid,’ and ‘good God’, and there’s nothing more risque than flirting and a couple of double-meaning jokes.
“When Pikachu sees a shirtless man, he quips that all he can see is ‘tattoos and nipples’.
“The story promotes teamwork, courage, and friendship and shows how even the seemingly inexperienced can make a difference.”
Pokemon: Detective Pikachu is now playing in cinemas.