The legendary master thief, Lupin III, is back! Toho Next has unveiled the first teaser trailer for Lupin the Third: The Movie, marking a monumental return to 2D animation for the franchise. Slated for a 2025 theatrical release in Japan, fans worldwide eagerly await more updates.
Directed by Takeshi Koike, renowned for Redline and The Animatrix’s “World Record”, this project is steeped in anime excellence. The film’s creative team includes Yuya Takahashi as the screenwriter and music by James Shimoji, known for his iconic work on Redline. Telecom Animation is leading production, ensuring the franchise’s trademark style and flair are maintained.
This marks the first time in 30 years a 2D animated Lupin the Third film will hit theaters, the last being Lupin the Third: Dead or Alive (1996). The teaser debuted during the 45th-anniversary screenings of Lupin the Third: Castle of Cagliostro—a fitting homage to the series’ illustrious history.
Returning cast members include Kanichi Kurita as Lupin III, Akio Otsuka as Daisuke Jigen, and Miyuki Sawashiro as Fujiko Mine. With no plot details revealed yet, the teaser tantalizes fans with Inspector Zenigata’s determined claim: “I’ll catch Lupin III myself. Only I can fulfill this mission.”
Stay tuned for updates on its international release. Will Lupin the Third: The Movie live up to its legendary predecessors? Fans and newcomers alike are in for a treat.
My Impressions: The teaser trailer for Lupin the Third: The Movie is a thrilling glimpse into the franchise’s future. The return to 2D animation feels like a love letter to long-time fans while introducing a new generation to the charm of Lupin III. With Takeshi Koike at the helm, expectations are high for dynamic visuals and captivating storytelling. However, the lack of plot details leaves viewers wanting more. The challenge lies in balancing nostalgia with innovation—a task this creative team seems well-equipped to handle.
What are your thoughts on Lupin III’s return to 2D animation? Do you think this film will recapture the magic of its predecessors?
