>>53416845-The plan is smart because it specifically targets Ash's weak spot, his desire to help Pokemon. It's not uncommon to see Pikachu portrayed as the most perceptive of the group, it takes a lot to convince him that BS isn't afoot.
-Mild Rocketshipping pandering during the motto as Jessie and James are more touchy feely than usual, nothing that I think they'll seriously follow up on, but it did happen.
-Because it was in the context of an act, Team Rocket was permitted to act extra threatening this episode, appearing to really want to harm Mime Jr. playing up the most evil side of Ash's perception of them.
-You know it's a good plan when Team Rocket factors in being blasted off as part of the strategy.
-Unexpected Brock/Misty/Croagunk gag as he tries to use Mime Jr.'s charm to get in a good word with Officer Jenny (must've looked pretty funny without subs).
-To distract his share of Team Rocket's Pokemon, Brock busts out some moves from the ED Takeshi's Paradise (while the song plays softly in the background) probably because of the synergy with Ludicolo.
-As small as it is, it should be noted that when Brock offered to hold down the fort, Ash said "Got it!" immediately, but when Misty offered to hold down the fort, Ash took a moment to worry about her "Kasumi..." before agreeing.
-Bit of a stretch to assume that Ash would tell Pikachu to go on without him (and Team Rocket will count on it), but ignorable I guess.
-Unfortunately for Team Rocket, their solid plan falls apart because Latias decides to intervene, giving a mental projection to Ash about the situation Pikachu is under (similar to her powers in Heroes).
-Because they didn't want any of Ash's Pokemon to job, an innocent wild Slakoth was used as the endangered innocent of the climax. A safe/smart play. Ash gets to be the hero while his Pokemon retain their dignity.
-Add another exclamation of concern over Ash for Misty... I swear, they use her every time lol.
