Lupin III Returns to the Big Screen with New 2D Animated Film After 30 Years

Anime fans, rejoice! The beloved series Lupin III is making a triumphant return to theaters with its first traditionally animated feature film since 1996. Under the masterful direction of Takeshi Koike, this new adventure, tentatively titled "LUPIN THE THIRD: THE MOVIE," promises to transport longtime fans on a nostalgic journey while introducing new audiences to the world's most charismatic phantom thief.

Star-Studded Cast and Familiar Faces

The recently released trailer showcases the return of all fan-favorite characters from the franchise. Leading the ensemble is Arsène Lupin III, grandson of the legendary gentleman thief, accompanied by his trusted allies: the expert marksman Daisuke Jigen, the skilled intelligence gatherer Fujiko Mine, the master swordsman Goemon Ishikawa XIII, and their persistent pursuer, Inspector Koichi Zenigata.

Veteran Creative Team Takes the Helm

Director Takeshi Koike is no stranger to the Lupin III universe. His journey with the franchise began in 2012 with "Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine," followed by a series of successful films including:

"Lupin the IIIrd: Jigen's Gravestone" (2014)

"Lupin the IIIrd: Goemon's Blood Spray" (2017)

"Lupin the IIIrd: Fujiko's Lie" (2019)

The production brings together an impressive creative team:

Screenplay: Yuya Takahashi

Music: James Shimoji

Creative Consultant: Katsuhito Ishii

Animation Production: Telecom Animation Film

Production Company: TMS Entertainment

Distribution: TOHO NEXT

Voice Cast Excellence

The film features an all-star lineup of voice talent, including:

Kanichi Kurita as Lupin III

Akio Otsuka (known for Yujiro Hanma in "Baki" and All For One in "My Hero Academia") as Daisuke Jigen

Daisuke Namikawa (Momoshiki Otsutsuki in "Boruto") as Goemon Ishikawa XIII

Miyuki Sawashiro (Kurapika in "Hunter x Hunter") as Fujiko Mine

Koichi Yamadera (Spike Spiegel in "Cowboy Bebop" and Bruce Wayne in "Batman Ninja") as Inspector Zenigata

A Legacy That Spans Generations

Created by the late Kazuhiko Kato (known by his pen name Monkey Punch), Lupin III first appeared in Weekly Manga Action on August 10, 1967. The franchise has since expanded into numerous TV series, films, live-action adaptations, and special episodes. The last traditional 2D theatrical release was "Lupin III: Dead Or Alive" in 1996, making this new film a significant milestone in the series' history.