Get ready, Lupin fans! The world’s greatest thief is making a grand return to the big screen in 2025 with a brand-new 2D animated feature film. This marks the first traditionally animated, full-length Lupin III movie in nearly three decades, promising a nostalgic yet fresh experience for longtime enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming film and the legacy of Lupin the Third.
A Theatrical Heist 30 Years in the Making
The Lupin III franchise, created by Monkey Punch, has captivated audiences for over five decades with its charismatic characters, intricate heists, and thrilling adventures. While the series has seen numerous adaptations, including TV anime, movies, live-action films, and specials, the upcoming film is especially significant. It’s the first 2D animated feature-length movie since 1996’s Lupin the Third: Dead or Alive.
Lupin the IIIrd: The Movie – Immortal Bloodline
The new film is officially titled Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku, which translates to Immortal Bloodline. It’s scheduled to premiere in Japanese theaters on June 27, 2025.
What’s the Plot?
The story follows Lupin and his team as they embark on a quest for a treasure hidden on a mysterious, unmarked island. Of course, nothing is ever simple for Lupin, and they soon encounter numerous challenges and formidable adversaries. Expect thrilling action, cunning strategies, and plenty of Lupin’s signature charm.
The Team Behind the Heist
The film boasts a talented crew:
- Director: Takeshi Koike, known for his work on Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine and the visually stunning Redline. He has also directed Lupin the IIIrd: Jigen’s Gravestone (2014), Lupin the IIIrd: Goemon’s Blood Spray (2017), and Lupin the IIIrd: Fujiko Mine’s Lie (2019).
- Screenplay: Yuya Takahashi, who has previously written for Lupin the Third Part IV and other Lupin the IIIrd films.
- Music: James Shimoji, also known for his work on Redline.
- Creative Advisor: Katsuhito Ishii, the original creator of Redline.
- Animation Production: Telecom Animation Film, a studio with a long history of involvement in the Lupin III franchise, including Lupin Zero, Part 4, Part 5, and the Lupin the IIIRD film trilogy.
- Distribution: TOHO NEXT.
The Cast of Characters
The film features the voices of the current main cast, reprising their roles from previous Lupin III projects:
- Lupin III: Kanichi Kurita
- Daisuke Jigen: Akio Otsuka
- Goemon Ishikawa: Daisuke Namikawa
- Fujiko Mine: Miyuki Sawashiro
- Inspector Zenigata: Koichi Yamadera
Theme Song
Rock band B’z will perform the film’s theme song, titled “The IIIRD Eye,” adding another layer of excitement to the project. The song has been previewed in the movie’s trailer, adding to the hype for the movie.
A Look Back at Lupin’s History
Lupin III is a media franchise created by Monkey Punch (Kazuhiko Kato), who passed away in 2019. The manga series began in Weekly Manga Action on August 10, 1967, and follows the adventures of Arsène Lupin III, the grandson of Arsène Lupin, the gentleman thief from Maurice Leblanc’s novels. Lupin III is joined by his partners:
- Daisuke Jigen: A sharpshooter and Lupin’s closest friend.
- Fujiko Mine: A femme fatale who sometimes helps and sometimes hinders Lupin.
- Goemon Ishikawa XIII: A master swordsman and descendant of the legendary Ishikawa Goemon.
Lupin is constantly pursued by Inspector Zenigata, an Interpol detective who has dedicated his life to capturing him.
Anime Adaptations Over the Years
The Lupin III manga has been adapted into numerous anime series, films, and specials. Here’s a look at some of the key adaptations:
- Lupin the Third Part 1 (1971-1972): The first anime television series, initially directed by Masaaki Ōsumi, then by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. It features a darker, more serious tone compared to later adaptations.
- Lupin the 3rd Part II (1977-1980): Also known as New Lupin III, this series is recognized by Lupin’s red jacket. It’s one of the most popular and longest-running Lupin III anime series.
- Lupin the 3rd Part III (1984-1985): This series features Lupin wearing a pink jacket and has a more comedic tone.
- Lupin the 3rd Part IV (2015): Set in Italy and San Marino, this series features Lupin in a blue jacket. It premiered in Italy before airing in Japan.
- Lupin the 3rd Part 5 (2018): This series incorporates modern technology and social media into Lupin’s heists.
- Lupin Zero (2022): A six-episode ONA (Original Net Animation) prequel series that focuses on Lupin III’s youth. The series is set in 1960s Tokyo and draws inspiration from Monkey Punch’s Young Lupin III stories.
Feature Films
Lupin III has also been featured in numerous animated and live-action films, including:
- Lupin the 3rd: The Mystery of Mamo (1978): The first animated feature film based on the Lupin III franchise.
- Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro (1979): Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this film is considered a classic and one of the best anime films of all time.
- Lupin the Third: Dead or Alive (1996): The last traditionally animated feature-length Lupin III film before the upcoming Immortal Bloodline.
- Lupin the 3rd: The First (2019): A CGI animated film.
Other Media
Besides anime and films, Lupin III has also been adapted into:
- Live-action films: Including a 2014 film directed by Ryuhei Kitamura.
- Video games: Numerous video games across various platforms.
- Stage musicals: A series of stage musicals.
Why Lupin Endures
The enduring popularity of Lupin III can be attributed to several factors:
- Charismatic Characters: Lupin, Jigen, Fujiko, Goemon, and Zenigata are all well-developed and memorable characters with unique personalities and motivations.
- Exciting Heists: The intricate and imaginative heists are a key element of the series, showcasing Lupin’s intelligence, skill, and creativity.
- Humor and Action: Lupin III blends humor and action seamlessly, creating an entertaining and engaging experience for viewers.
- Timeless Appeal: The themes of adventure, friendship, and defying authority resonate with audiences of all ages.
- The Music: The soundtracks, especially those composed by Yuji Ohno, are iconic and contribute significantly to the series’ atmosphere.
The Legacy of Monkey Punch
The Lupin III franchise is a testament to the creative genius of Monkey Punch. His unique art style, memorable characters, and imaginative stories have captivated audiences for generations. Even after his passing, his creation continues to inspire and entertain, with new adaptations and projects keeping the spirit of Lupin III alive.
What to Expect from Immortal Bloodline
Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku promises to be a thrilling addition to the Lupin III franchise. With its talented team, classic 2D animation, and exciting storyline, the film is sure to please fans of all ages.
A New Beginning?
The release of Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku marks not only a return to traditional 2D animation but also a fresh start for the franchise. It will be the first full-length 2D outing for the series’ current cast of Japanese voice actors. With a new generation of talent and a renewed focus on classic animation, the future of Lupin III looks brighter than ever.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Lupin III, Immortal Bloodline is an event you won’t want to miss. Get ready to join Lupin and his crew on another thrilling adventure!
