Legendary Pokémon are extraordinarily uncommon and particular, each within the video games and within the anime. Amongst them, Mew is likely one of the most iconic. The director of the Pokémon anime talked about how they captured Mew’s distinctive traits for its debut within the film Mewtwo Strikes Again.

Within the Pokémon world, Mew is a uncommon Pokémon with highly effective psychic skills. It’s mentioned to be the genetic ancestor of all Pokémon, permitting it to make use of all kinds of strikes. Mew’s DNA was additionally used to create Mewtwo, the principle character of the primary Pokémon movie. Regardless of their shut bond, Mew’s function was not fully determined at first of the franchise.

The Mythical Nature of MewThe Mythical Nature of Mew
Pokemon Franchise (Supply: Pokemon Firm, Nintendo)

When the anime staff was engaged on Mew’s character, they needed to make him very totally different from Mewtwo.

Director Kunihiko Yuyama Reveals Mew’s Transcendent Nature in 2023 Interview

In a 2023 interview with director Kunihiko Yuyama, Yuyama defined that Mew is supposed to be a transcendent being, past human ideas of fine and evil. He in contrast Mew to pure forces just like the ocean or mountains, which may be stunning but in addition harmful. This portrayal contrasts with Mewtwo’s humanoid origins.

The Mythical Nature of MewThe Mythical Nature of Mew
Pokemon Franchise (Supply: Pokemon Firm, Nintendo)

This matches nicely with how Mew is portrayed within the movie. Mew is interested in people and their actions, however can also be simply amused by itself. He does not appear to care a lot about combating Mewtwo. When Ash is turned to stone throughout their struggle, Mew is initially detached.

It solely reveals concern when it sees the opposite Pokémon mourning Ash. If the Pokémon hadn’t reacted, Mew may need been in a position to depart Ash in his predicament and proceed combating.

Mew’s silence and indifference emphasize its transcendent nature in Pokémon lore

Mew’s lack of speech additionally is smart on this context. In contrast to Mewtwo, who communicates telepathically, Mew does not really feel the necessity to discuss to people. He may in all probability talk with Ash and his mates, however selected to not. Mew’s indifference to human morality makes him appear detached, which contrasts along with his cute look.

The Mythical Nature of MewThe Mythical Nature of Mew
Pokemon Franchise (Supply: Pokemon Firm, Nintendo)

Mew’s standing as a Legendary Pokémon means that it’s nearly a god, current outdoors of human morality and philosophy. Whereas later Legendary Pokémon take the function of gods extra actually, even early on with Mew, Legendary Pokémon had been seen on this exalted means by the creators of the anime. Mew is greater than only a Pokémon, and even perhaps greater than a human.