According to an exclusive from Variety, a live-action Pokémon series is in the early stages of development from the streaming giant Netflix. Lucifer`s Joe Henderson is attached to the project as writer and executive producer. Considering that Lucifer is one of the biggest shows currently on Netflix, Pokémon enthusiasts can rest easy if this turns out to be true.
According to some sources, the live-action series will follow the same route as the 2019 Detective Pikachu adaptation starring Ryan Reynolds and Justice Smith.
Variety also states that reps for Netflix and Henderson did not respond to their request to comment. So, at this stage, take it with a grain of salt. However, that is not to say that the series is not in the early development stages. We already know that Netflix is currently working on a Cowboy Bebop and a One Piece live-action show. The streamer also brought out the film Death Note back in 2017 with Nat Wolff and Willem Dafoe in the lead roles.
Pokémon evolved into a social and media phenomenon, from trading cards to movies and everything in between. This seems like a step forward for Netflix. With the game-driven future Netflix aims for and hit shows like The Witcher and Castlevania and other properties in development, this seems like the perfect place for the live-action series. For now, little is known about the actual story or any actors attached to the project.
Is there a need for a Pokémon live-action series? Would you watch it?
Why not as? It seems everything Pokémon is an actual gold mine. From the box office success to the anime and games, all things labeled with this unique brand will gather a following. Whether it is out of curiosity or nostalgia from a simpler time in your life, this show will be viewed by more than just the average fan.
I, for one, will definitely be watching this series when it airs, even if it is out of pure curiosity just to see these amazing monsters come to life on the silver screen.