The Lupin
III franchise has taken an unexpected step by introducing a special
episode focused on Inspector Zenigata, titled Lupin the
IIIrd: Zenigata to Futari no Lupin ("Zenigata and the Two
Lupins"). The episode, which serves as a prequel to the upcoming
film Lupin the IIIrd the Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku ("The Immortal
Bloodline"), premiered on Thursday, June 20 on
Japanese streaming platforms.
With a
darker and action-focused tone, the story revolves around an attack on an
airport in the fictional Roviet Union, an icy land. The prime
suspect: none other than Lupin III. But the "other
Lupin," whom Zenigata corners, insists on his innocence. Thus begins a
tense chase against a "False Lupin", which will test
the determination of the tireless inspector.
Koichi
Yamadera stands out in a role without a trace of comedy
Voice
actor Koichi Yamadera, who plays Zenigata, shared a special message
through the franchise's official X (formerly Twitter) account. "It's an
intense action story with Zenigata as the protagonist. Director Takeshi
Koike gives that characteristic hard-boiled flavor to the saga, and
this time it's even more overwhelming," he said. Yamadera also clarified
that, unlike other installments, there are no comic elements in
this story.
The main
team behind the film also participates in this special episode, including
screenwriter Yuya Takahashi, composer James Shimoji,
and creative advisor Katsuhito Ishii.
Special
broadcast on television and connection with previous installments
The episode
will also air on the WOWOW satellite channel on Saturday,
June 22, accompanied by the three previous films of the Lupin the
IIIrd universe: The Gravestone of Daisuke Jigen (2014), Goemon's
Blood Spray (2017) and Fujiko Mine's Lie (2019).
This
prequel sets the stage for the premiere of the main film, which will hit
Japanese theaters on Thursday, June 27. Fans can expect a dose of
pure action, mystery, and a Zenigata more determined than ever.
