Mewtwo is the main antagonist of Pokémon: The First Movie, released in Japan in 1998. The genetically engineered Pokémon struggles with questions about its identity, origins, and purpose.
The film presents Mewtwo as a clone created from genetic material connected to Mew. After being exploited by scientists and manipulated by Team Rocket’s leader, Giovanni, Mewtwo develops a deep distrust of humans and seeks to prove that cloned Pokémon can surpass naturally born Pokémon.
Ash, Pikachu, and their friends are invited to New Island, where Mewtwo’s plan unfolds. The conflict leads to a battle between original Pokémon and their clones, with Mew and Mewtwo representing contrasting ideas about natural origin and artificial creation.
The movie is frequently called Pokémon: The First Movie in English, although its full international title is Pokémon: The First Movie—Mewtwo Strikes Back. Its central villain is not Mew, despite Mew’s major role in the final confrontation.