Badge

A trio of action adventures from the popular Pokémon TV series finds our indomitable heroes Ash, Misty, and Brock persevering in their quest to rid the world of evil. In the first episode, "Clefairy Tales," Ash is on his way to Viridian City to compete for his eighth, and final, badge when he finds himself witness to a rash of alien abductions--or are they? Worse yet, Pikachu has been kidnapped for use in an enemy space launch. Can Ash's Bulbasaur save the day? Undoubtedly yes, and just in time for Ash to begin his Earth Badge competition in "The Battle of the Badge." Does Ash really have what it takes to join the Pokémon League? It's showtime in Viridian City's gym against the fearsome gym leader and his "ultimate Pokémon." Let's hope Ash doesn't quit when Team Rocket attempts to subdue him once and for all, especially since Ash and cohorts are due to visit Pokémon Circus. In the last episode, "It's Mr. Mime Time," a supremely fierce Pokémon gives Ash, Misty, and Brock a three-ring performance they'll never forget. Though there's nothing profound here, the formula is pure Pokémon, with enough mischief and general tomfoolery to please fans ages 4 to 10. Followed by The Po-ke Corral. --Lynn Gibson