What was the Japanese theatrical release date of Pokémon: The First Movie?

Pokémon: The First Movie was released theatrically in Japan on July 18, 1998.

Its Japanese title was Pocket Monsters the Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back. Directed by Kunihiko Yuyama, the film follows Mewtwo, a genetically engineered Pokémon who challenges the value of origins, identity, and power. Ash, Pikachu, and their friends become involved in Mewtwo’s plan.

The Japanese theatrical feature was 75 minutes long. Later home-video and television versions included “The Uncut Story of Mewtwo’s Origin,” a prologue that gives more background on Mewtwo and the scientist responsible for its creation.

The English-language adaptation arrived in North America on November 10, 1999, more than a year after the Japanese premiere. That difference explains why release dates are often mixed up. The film became the first theatrical Pokémon movie and launched a long-running movie series.