Lupin the Third: A Fresh 2D Animated Adventure Breaks 30-Year Hiatus with Exciting Teaser

The infamous master thief, Lupin III, is making a comeback! Toho Next has recently released the first teaser trailer for Lupin the Third: The Movie, signaling a significant return to traditional 2D animation within the beloved series. Set for a theatrical release in Japan in 2025, fans globally are eager for further announcements.

This exciting project is led by director Takeshi Koike, known for his work on Redline and The Animatrix’s “World Record”. The production boasts a talented lineup, including screenwriter Yuya Takahashi and composer James Shimoji, who is recognized for his notable contributions to Redline. Telecom Animation is at the forefront of production, ensuring that the distinctive style of the franchise remains intact.

This film marks the return of 2D animation after a 30-year gap, with the last theatrical release being Lupin the Third: Dead or Alive (1996). The teaser was showcased during the 45th-anniversary screening of Lupin the Third: Castle of Cagliostro, serving as a tribute to the series’ rich legacy.

The cast will see the return of Kanichi Kurita as Lupin III, Akio Otsuka as Daisuke Jigen, and Miyuki Sawashiro as Fujiko Mine. While details regarding the storyline remain undisclosed, the teaser offers an intriguing hint as Inspector Zenigata declares, “I’ll catch Lupin III myself. Only I can fulfill this mission.”

Fans should stay tuned for news on its release outside of Japan. Is Lupin the Third: The Movie poised to meet the high expectations set by its iconic predecessors? Both loyal fans and newcomers are in for something special.

My Impressions: The teaser for Lupin the Third: The Movie offers an exciting preview of what’s to come for the franchise. Returning to 2D animation is a nostalgic touch that honors long-time followers while also inviting new audiences into the world of Lupin III. With Takeshi Koike directing, viewers can expect stunning visuals and engaging narratives. However, the absence of plot specifics leaves much to the imagination. Balancing nostalgia with fresh ideas will be a significant challenge, but this creative team appears well-prepared to tackle it.

What do you think about Lupin III’s revival in 2D animation? Will this film capture the essence of its classic predecessors?