Get ready, Lupin fans! The world’s greatest thief is making a grand return with a brand-new 2D anime feature film slated for release in June 2025. But that’s not all – a prequel series is also on the horizon, promising even more Lupin adventures!
A Theatrical Heist: “Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku”
Mark your calendars for June 27, 2025, as that’s when Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku (“Immortal Bloodline”) hits Japanese theaters. This film marks a significant milestone for the franchise, being the first new 2D feature-length anime film in nearly 30 years, since 1996’s Lupin III: Dead or Alive. In the meantime, whet your appetite with the official trailer, which previews the film’s theme song, “The IIIRD Eye,” performed by the rock band B’z.
What’s the Plot?
Lupin and his team are heading to a mysterious, unmarked island in search of a legendary treasure. Of course, their quest won’t be easy, and they’ll face plenty of challenges along the way. Expect thrilling heists, daring escapes, and the usual Lupin antics!
The Team Behind the Treasure
The film boasts a talented team, ensuring a high-quality Lupin experience:
- Director: Takeshi Koike, known for his work on Lupin the IIIrd: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine, Lupin the IIIrd: Jigen’s Gravestone, Lupin the IIIrd: Goemon’s Blood Spray, and Lupin the IIIrd: Fujiko Mine’s Lie.
- Screenplay: Yūya Takahashi, who also worked on Lupin the IIIrd: Jigen’s Gravestone, Lupin the IIIrd: Goemon’s Blood Spray, Lupin the IIIrd: Fujiko Mine’s Lie, and Lupin the 3rd Part 6.
- Music: James Shimoji, returning from previous Lupin the IIIrd films.
- Creative Advisor: Katsuhito Ishii, original creator of Redline.
- Animation Production: Telecom Animation Film
- Production & Copyright: TMS Entertainment
- Distribution: TOHO NEXT
The Cast of Characters
The familiar voices of Lupin’s crew will be returning:
- Kanichi Kurita as Lupin III
- Akio Otsuka as Daisuke Jigen
- Daisuke Namikawa as Goemon Ishikawa
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Fujiko Mine
- Koichi Yamadera as Inspector Zenigata
Delving into the Past: “Lupin Zero”
If you’re eager for more Lupin content before June 2025, check out Lupin Zero. This six-episode ONA (Original Net Animation) prequel series explores Lupin III’s youth in 1960s Japan. The series draws inspiration from Monkey Punch’s Young Lupin III stories and offers a glimpse into how the mischievous young Lupin developed into the world-renowned thief we all know and love. Lupin Zero premiered on December 16, 2022, and is available for streaming on HIDIVE.
“Lupin Zero” Staff
- Director: Daisuke Sakou
- Series Supervisor: Ichirou Okouchi
- Character Designer: Asami Taguchi
- Music: Yoshihide Otomo
- Animation Production: Telecom Animation Film Co., Ltd.
- Presented by: TMS Entertainment Co., Ltd.
Lupin III: A Legacy of Larceny and Adventure
Lupin III, created by Monkey Punch (Kazuhiko Kato), has been a beloved franchise for over five decades. The series follows the adventures of Arsène Lupin III, the grandson of the famous gentleman thief Arsène Lupin, and his colorful gang of accomplices:
- Daisuke Jigen: The sharpshooting right-hand man.
- Fujiko Mine: The alluring and cunning femme fatale.
- Goemon Ishikawa XIII: The stoic samurai swordsman.
Always hot on their heels is Inspector Zenigata, the tireless Interpol detective who has dedicated his life to capturing Lupin.
A Multifaceted Franchise
Since its debut as a manga in 1967, Lupin III has expanded into a vast media empire, including:
- Multiple anime television series
- Animated films
- Live-action adaptations
- Video games
- Soundtracks
- OVAs (Original Video Animations)
The franchise has garnered critical acclaim for its engaging characters, thrilling plots, and stylish animation. While the manga is known for its darker tone and mature themes, the anime adaptations have generally been more family-friendly, appealing to a wide audience.
Why Lupin Endures
The enduring popularity of Lupin III can be attributed to several factors:
- Charming Characters: Lupin and his crew are a lovable bunch, each with their unique quirks and skills.
- Exciting Adventures: The series is packed with thrilling heists, car chases, and narrow escapes.
- Timeless Appeal: Lupin III blends classic adventure tropes with a modern sensibility, making it appealing to audiences of all ages.
- Stylish Presentation: The franchise is known for its distinctive animation style and jazzy soundtracks, creating a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.
The Future of Lupin
With a new 2D anime film and a prequel series on the way, the future looks bright for Lupin III. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, there’s never been a better time to join Lupin and his gang on their thrilling adventures!
So, keep an eye out for Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku in June 2025, and dive into Lupin Zero for a taste of Lupin’s early escapades. The world’s greatest thief is back, and he’s ready to steal your heart all over again.
