James, known as Kojiro, is a recurring member of Team Rocket alongside Jessie and Meowth. He originates from a privileged but oppressive wealthy family background. Fleeing an arranged marriage to the abusive Jessiebelle, which his parents enforced, instilled in him a lasting aversion to upper-class society and its rigid expectations. His primary mission within Team Rocket is capturing rare Pokémon, especially Ash's Pikachu, to serve the organization's goals. James demonstrates technical skill in building gadgets and robots for these missions, yet often displays emotional sensitivity and occasional moral conflict. He forms strong bonds with his own Pokémon, treating them with care and sometimes releasing them when they find a greater purpose. Despite his antagonist role, he has assisted Ash and his friends during truces, primarily to hide his criminal activities from figures like his grandparents, whom he respects. In "Hoopa and the Clash of Ages," James participates in Team Rocket's scheme to steal the Prison Bottle, an artifact containing Hoopa's sealed energy. This act leads to Meowth becoming possessed upon opening the bottle, unleashing Hoopa's destructive shadow form. James, with Jessie and Meowth, then witnesses the ensuing large-scale battle involving multiple summoned Legendary Pokémon. His role in the film is limited to the initial theft and observing the conflict, with no significant character development or backstory exploration specific to this event. His portrayal consistently reflects his established loyalty to his teammates and participation in their recurring goal of capturing Pikachu.