TMS
Entertainment has
released a new character trailer for the highly anticipated Lupin
the IIIrd: Fujimi no Ketsukoku, the latest feature film in the
iconic Lupin III franchise. The film will be released in Japan
on June 27 via TOHO NEXT.
This
project marks an important milestone for fans, as it will be the first
full-length 2D animated film in the saga in almost 30 years,
since the classic Lupin III: Dead or Alive released in 1996.
A gift
for moviegoers
As part of
the promotional campaign, those who attend to see the film in Japanese theaters
will receive a collection of original "secret" illustrations,
created especially for this occasion.
Before the
theatrical release, fans will be able to enjoy a prequel series in net
anime format titled Lupin the IIIrd: Zenigata to Futari no
Lupin (Zenigata and the Two Lupin), which will premiere on June
20 on Japanese platforms such as Amazon Prime Video.
This side
project, described as a "hardcore action" anime, stars
the iconic Inspector Zenigata. The story begins after a terrorist
attack on an airport in the fictitious and snowy "Roviet Union",
where Lupin is accused as the main suspect. However, a complex
plot is soon revealed that includes the presence of more than one Lupin.
A story
of immortality and hidden treasures
The new
film will follow Lupin and his team as they embark on a quest for
legendary treasure on an unnamed island that hides many
secrets. Among the new characters are:
- Ainosuke Kataoka as Muomu, an
immortal man
- Aoi Morikawa as Sarifa, a
mysterious young woman in the service of Muomu
A luxury
team behind the project
The
talented Takeshi Koike, known for his work in other titles in the
franchise such as Jigen's Gravestone or Goemon's Blood
Spray, returns to direct the film with the Telecom Animation Film studio. Yūya
Takahashi will be in charge of the script, James Shimoji will
compose the music and Katsuhito Ishii will act as creative
advisor.
In
addition, the legendary Japanese rock band B'z will perform the film's
theme song titled "The IIIRD Eye."
A
franchise that is constantly being renewed
Since 1996,
several Lupin III-related titles have been screened in theaters, such as Jigen's
Gravestone, Fujiko Mine's Lie, or the 3DCG film Lupin
III THE FIRST from 2019. Crossovers such as Lupin
III vs. Detective Conan or Lupin III vs. Cat's Eye were
also released, but none had recovered the traditional 2D feature film format,
making this new installment a special event for fans of the iconic white-collar
thief.
