There is not a video game franchise that Hollywood is not interested in profiting off of by adapting it onto the big screen, and “Detective Pikachu” is no exception.

Based on the Nintendo 3DS game by the same name, “Detective Pikachu” is the first live-action adaptation of its cinematic franchise.

There are bonuses for being an avid fan of the game and spotting every Pokemon from start to finish, but non-fans and first time viewers will still enjoy the film.

“Detective Pikachu” follows a traditional mystery plot featuring a former wanna-be trainer insurance salesman Tim Goodman, played by Justice Smith, investigating the death of his father.

He pairs with his father’s former partner, a strange talking Pikachu, voiced by Ryan Reynolds.  Together they team up with budding news reporter Lucy Stevens, played by Kathryn Newton, and her adorable, yet oddly dangerous Psyduck to uncover an even bigger story.

There are few gasp inducing plot twists and surprise reveals early on in the movie. This leaves the plot easily guessable.

But where the story lacks, the world in which the movie is set in thrives.

Both Pokemon and humans coexist in Rhyme City, and this city is buzzing with activity.

Pokemon such as the Pidgeys and Pidgeottos fly overhead, packs of Charmanders and Squirtles roam the streets, a Machamp directs traffic with his four humongous arms, a Snorlax blocks traffic and Growlithes patrols the streets alongside their human police partners.

In a dingy bar, a Jigglypuff sings softly and sweetly to its sleeping partner.

Unlike most adaptations, “Detective Pikachu” is a movie that understands what a Pokemon is; a fascinating and intricately designed pocket monster.

All of that helps establish that these Pokemon aren’t just CGI creatures. They’re living, breathing and realistic creatures in this universe.

They can be cute, creepy or menacing, but that lends to the fact that Pokemon are more than just imagination. It’s why the film works perfectly for non-fans and fans alike.

“Detective Pikachu” offers more through its visual treats and the way the movie expertly handles Pokemon. Fans and non-fans have a lot to look forward to coming into this movie.

4/5