Released in 2016 (Japan) and 2017 (internationally), Volcanion y la Maravilla Mecánica follows the Mythical Pokémon Volcanion, a solitary, steam-based creature that despises humanity. The plot kicks off when the villainous Alva steals the "Soul-Heart"—a powerful, life-giving machinery from the artificial kingdom of Azoth.
In a chaotic accident, Volcanion becomes fused with Ash Ketchum via a "Nexus" bond. Yes, you read that correctly. For the first time in franchise history, a human and a legendary Pokémon are physically and mysteriously tethered together. If Volcanion feels pain, Ash feels it. If Ash runs, Volcanion is dragged along. pokemon volcanion y la maravilla mecanica 20 better
This narrative device is the first reason why this film is 20 better than standard Pokémon adventures. It forces Volcanion, a character designed to hate humans, to literally walk a mile in Ash’s shoes. Yes, you read that correctly
For 19 films prior, legendary Pokémon were either benevolent gods (Mew, Celebi) or destructive forces of nature (Kyogre, Groudon, Darkrai). Volcanion breaks the mold. He is grumpy, sarcastic, and xenophobic. He refers to humans as "fleshlings" with venom in his voice. If Ash runs, Volcanion is dragged along
The "20 better" argument begins here: Volcanion is not a hero. He is a survivalist. His arc from a bitter hermit to a willing protector is superior to the typical "capture-the-legendary" trope. The mechanical marvel of the title—the floating fortress of Azoth and its clockwork Pokémon (Magearna)—serves as the perfect mirror to Volcanion’s organic steam power. He is a living machine; she is a mechanical lifeform. Their dynamic is Shakespearean.
Unlike typical legendary encounters, Volcanion ties a “Bonding Bracelet” to Ash. If Ash wanders too far? Pain. If they don’t cooperate? Stuck.
This creates a Lethal Weapon dynamic: