Sure, it's a filler, but it's a good filler. Professor Oak returns, offering a good scene with Max, and we finally get to see Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle again. Seeing Max's reactions to the Kanto starters got a good laugh out of me, expecially the expressions on Charmander and Squirtle after Max squeezes their faces. The structure of this episode was even interesting, as it showcased a few Pokémon we don't see as often anymore (Zubat, Poliwrath, Dugtrio, etc.)
On the dubbing side of things, I notice 4Kids removed the bottom of Jessie, James, and Meowth's wine glasses. Didn't really make a difference, though, since it's obvious the three of them are still drunk off their asses - and the reading by Rachel Lillis, Eric Stuart, and Addie Blaustein was hilarious in that scene. I miss the awesome song that played during the attempt to knock down the door, but what are you gonna do? At least Poochyena (which I still believe should be pronounced "poo-chai-EE-nuh", since it's obviously derived from "hyena") kept its Japanese voice.
It took me a while to realize that Jessie, James, and Meowth were blasting off in the shape of an R. At least they're keeping it fresh.
Ultimately, a fine episode, with some high quality animation that left "Balance of Power" in the dust. Definitely one of the better fillers.