The funniest swap was definitely between Lana and Kiawe, because I you automatically get the feeling that both characters were obviously uncomfortable with the other’s Pokemon (like, what do I with this Pokemon?!). Turtonator’s reaction to Lana’s sisters was funny, just like Kiawe’s reaction to Popplio at his home (it’s a good thing that Kiawe’s sister was there to play with Popplio). I also liked how Popplio jumped into action there, to help Kiawe, when the two Tauros were fighting/arguing, which was a reflection of Lana (jumping into action).
Not really much to comment on between Mallow and Sophocles’ swap, except that I liked how Steenee helped Sophocles with him going to sleep, without Togedemaru being there and Togedemaru eventually doing something positive for Mallow at the restaurant (even though it was indirect, cleaning the place), instead of cause the chaos it did, with it being so hyperactive and all. It was funny at the end though, when Togedemaru was staying by Mallow, instead of going to straight to Sophocles (poor Sophocles lol).
So, Ash and Lillie, I liked how Pikachu scooted over in the car, because it remembered Lillie’s fear. It also obviously seemed liked that Shiron is most comfortable around Litten (gave me a flashback between Serena’s Eevee and Clemont’s Bunnelby). Ash training Shiron a little was cool too and I was glad to see that Shiron finally warmed up to Ash. As for Lillie, I liked her determination (trying to be able to touch Pikachu), and the battle between her and James was good. I was hoping that it wouldn’t be interrupted or cut short, and if it wasn’t, I was expecting Lillie to win, because of how strong Pikachu is, and because Lillie has shown to be able to come up strategy in the past. I was a little worried there for a minute, when James was controlling the battle, but Lillie hung in there. I just wish we could’ve seen a little strategy from Lillie. Anyway, congrats on the victory Lillie!
Last, a meaningful moment happens at the end (Lillie showing everyone that she can now touch Pikachu as well), and Rowlet was in his passed out state.
Heh, Festival Plaza music at the end of the episode. Too bad that we couldn’t witness the battle between Ash and Lillie, much like Kiawe and Ash, but oh well. Still was a nice episode and was progress was made with Lillie’s fear of touching Pokemon, so it’s certainly positive. Seeing Pikachu on Lillie's shoulder at the end was cute too.
Lillie can be the main protagonist.