So many absurd things have happened this year that it’s hard to remember that not only are we getting a live action Pokemon film, it’s actually based on a Japan-only game about a Pikachu that solves crimes. But yes, it’s still happening, and just took a major step forward by closing in on casting its female lead.
Image: The Pokémon Company
Variety reports that Big Little Lies‘ Kathryn Newton is in negotiations to join Legendary Entertainment and Universal’s adaptation of Great Detective Pikachu, as the Japan-only 3DS title is known in the West. Details about the role are undisclosed other than it’s the primary female role in the movie, alongside star Justice Smith. I dunno, maybe Pikachu will hit on her like he does with other women in the game?
In the game – which I must once again state is about a Pokemon that solves pokecrimes – there isn’t really a primary female protagonist alongside the aforementioned Pikachu or his new best friend, a kid named Tim Goodman, so there stands a good chance Newton’s character is entirely created for the adaptation. That isn’t too surprising, given the thought of Pokemon‘s first real foray into live-action entertainment remaining faithful to a game the vast majority of the audience will barely know exists would be just as crazy as, well… a movie about Great Detective Pikachu.
We live in interesting times, my friends.