TMS Entertainment has released a character introduction trailer for Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku (Immortal Bloodline), the latest film in the Lupin III franchise. This new installment is set to premiere in Japan on June 27, 2025, promising fans a thrilling adventure.
What’s New in Immortal Bloodline?
Fujimi no Ketsuzoku marks a significant milestone as the first traditionally animated, feature-length Lupin the 3rd film in over 30 years. It’s also the first film to not feature Kiyoshi Kobayashi as Daisuke Jigen, following his retirement in 2021 and subsequent passing in 2022.
Character Introductions
The character trailer offers a sneak peek at Lupin and his crew as they embark on a new mission. For those attending the film’s screenings in Japan, TMS is offering a collection of “secret” original drawings as a special treat.
Prequel Announcement
Ahead of the film’s release, a net anime prequel titled Lupin the IIIrd: Zenigata and the Two Lupins will begin streaming on various Japanese platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, starting June 20. This prequel will feature the familiar cast and staff. Kenyū Horiuchi is set to voice a fake Lupin in this special.
The prequel hones in on Inspector Zenigata as he finds himself investigating an explosive terrorist attack at an airport in the “Roviet Union.” Lupin is the prime suspect, but he maintains his innocence. Zenigata soon discovers that there may be more than one Lupin involved.
Storyline
Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku follows Lupin and his team as they search for treasure on a mysterious, uncharted island.
New Cast Members
The film introduces two new key characters:
- Muomu: Voiced by Ainosuke Kataoka, Muomu is an immortal man who rules the mysterious island.
- Sarifa: Voiced by Aoi Morikawa, Sarifa is a mysterious girl who serves Muomu.
Returning Cast
The main voice cast returns:
- Lupin III: Kanichi Kurita
- Daisuke Jigen: Akio Otsuka
- Goemon Ishikawa: Daisuke Namikawa
- Fujiko Mine: Miyuki Sawashiro
- Inspector Zenigata: Koichi Yamadera
Production Details
- Director: Takeshi Koike
- Screenwriter: Yuya Takahashi
- Music: James Shimoji
- Creative Advisor: Katsuhito Ishii
- Animation Studio: Telecom Animation Film
- Distribution: TOHO NEXT
What to Expect from Lupin the IIIrd: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku
Takeshi Koike’s Vision
Takeshi Koike, known for his work on Lupin III: 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, is directing the film.
Hard Action and Intrigue
The net anime prequel, Zenigata and the Two Lupins, is described as a “hard action” story, focusing on Inspector Zenigata. The plot involves a terrorist attack, a possible imposter Lupin, and a complex conspiracy.
A Dangerous Island
Lupin and his gang venture to a mysterious island in the Bermuda Sea, not found on any map. They aim to find the person sending assassins after them and to uncover a hidden treasure.
An Immortal Enemy
The island is a dangerous place, filled with decaying weapons, nuclear missiles, and “garbage people” who were once used as weapons. The island is covered in a poisonous fog that brings death within 24 hours, with no escape. Lupin faces Muom, an “immortal enemy” who is invulnerable to guns and swords.
Lupin’s Challenge
Lupin must use his wits to challenge Muom, risking his past and pride as a thief to steal everything within 24 hours and escape the island alive.
Lupin the Third: A Legacy
Lupin the Third, created by the late Kazuhiko Kato (Monkey Punch), is a series following Arsène Lupin III, the grandson of gentleman thief Arsène Lupin. The series has captivated audiences with its blend of action, comedy, and intricate heists.
Anime Adaptations
Lupin the Third has seen numerous anime adaptations, including:
- Lupin the Third Part I (1971): The first TV anime series.
- Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine (2012): An adult anime television series focusing on Fujiko Mine.
- Lupin the IIIrd series: A spin-off film series that includes Jigen’s Gravestone, Goemon’s Blood Spray, and Fujiko’s Lie.
- Lupin III: The First (2019): The first fully computer-animated film in the franchise.
Koikeverse
Fujimi no Ketsuzoku is the sixth work in the Lupin the IIIrd spin-off series, often referred to as the “Koikeverse” due to Takeshi Koike’s involvement.
Theme Song
The film’s theme song is “THE IIIRD EYE” by B’z, featuring Takahiro Matsumoto and Hiroshi Inaba.
Final Thoughts
Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku is poised to be a significant addition to the Lupin III franchise, blending traditional animation with a thrilling storyline. With a dangerous island, an immortal enemy, and the return of Lupin and his crew, fans can look forward to an action-packed adventure.
