A new trailer has been unveiled for the upcoming anime titled “LUPIN THE IIIRD: Zenigata and the Two Lupins,” which serves as a prequel to the highly anticipated “LUPIN THE IIIRD THE MOVIE: The Immortal Bloodline.” This exciting project is scheduled to premiere on streaming platforms in Japan on June 20, a week before the theatrical release of The Immortal Bloodline on June 27.
### Trailer Release for “LUPIN THE IIIRD: Zenigata and the Two Lupins”
The animation for this new installment is being handled by Studio Telecom Animation Film, known for its high-quality production. The narrative focuses on the legendary inspector Zenigata, who finds himself embroiled in a chaotic situation following a bombing incident at an airport in the Robieto Federation. The shocking twist comes when he sees a suspect resembling none other than Lupin III. Though Zenigata initially loses track of this elusive character, he soon spots another individual claiming to be “Lupin” at a nearby train station. Despite managing to apprehend this person aboard the train, the clever Lupin manages to escape, aided by his loyal partner, Daisuke Jigen.
### Intriguing Plot Developments
As the story unfolds, the cunning Fujiko Mine infiltrates a circus, quickly becoming a star performer for the nation’s supreme leader, Breilin. With a significant disarmament parade set to take place, the National Security Commission’s Karashikov labels Lupin as a terrorist and a spy from the Arca Republic. This leads to a massive manhunt for the gentleman thief. However, Inspector Zenigata starts to harbor doubts about the official narrative surrounding Lupin, which adds a layer of complexity to the plot.
In the capital, as Lupin finds himself cornered by the authorities, it is Zenigata—who believes in Lupin’s innocence—who bravely intervenes to protect him. Just when it seems that the inspector is about to turn the tide, a new explosion rocks the scene, leaving audiences in suspense.
### Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team
The creative team behind “LUPIN THE IIIRD: Zenigata and the Two Lupins” includes notable figures from the original series. The original work is credited to the late Kazuhiko Kato, who is better known by his pen name, Monkey Punch. The direction is in the capable hands of Takeshi Koike, while the screenplay is penned by Yuya Takahashi. The music for this captivating anime is composed by James Shimoji, adding an auditory layer to the thrilling visuals. Katsuhito Ishii serves as the creative advisor, ensuring that the series remains true to its roots while exploring new narratives.
The animation is produced by Telecom Animation Film, a studio recognized for its meticulous artistry and dynamic storytelling. TMS Entertainment oversees production and copyright, ensuring that this beloved franchise continues to thrive.
### Returning Voice Cast
The voice cast features several familiar names returning to their iconic roles. Kanichi Kurita lends his voice to Lupin III, bringing the character’s charm and wit to life. Akio Otsuka reprises his role as Daisuke Jigen, while Daisuke Namikawa returns as Goemon Ishikawa XIII. Miyuki Sawashiro voices the enigmatic Fujiko Mine, and Koichi Yamadera reprises his role as Inspector Koichi Zenigata. Their performances are integral to the series’ enduring popularity, and fans are excited to hear their voices once again.
### The Legacy of Lupin III
The Lupin III franchise has a rich history that dates back to its original manga debut in “Weekly Manga Action” on August 10, 1967. Created by Monkey Punch, the series follows the adventures of Lupin III, the grandson of the gentleman thief Arsène Lupin. Over the years, Lupin III has spawned numerous adaptations, including television anime series, films, live-action adaptations, and various specials. This versatility has allowed the franchise to reach a wide audience, maintaining its status as a beloved icon in Japanese pop culture.
### What to Expect from “LUPIN THE IIIRD: Zenigata and the Two Lupins”
Fans can anticipate a thrilling blend of action, intrigue, and humor in “LUPIN THE IIIRD: Zenigata and the Two Lupins.” The prequel promises to delve deeper into the relationships between the characters, particularly the dynamic between Zenigata and Lupin. As Zenigata grapples with his duty to uphold the law and his growing doubts about Lupin’s guilt, viewers will be left on the edge of their seats, wondering how this complex narrative will unfold.
The animation style, characteristic of Telecom Animation Film, is expected to be visually stunning, combining fluid motion with vibrant colors that bring the world of Lupin III to life. The attention to detail in character design and background art will enhance the storytelling experience, making it a treat for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
### Conclusion
As the premiere date approaches, excitement builds around “LUPIN THE IIIRD: Zenigata and the Two Lupins.” With a talented cast and creative team behind it, this prequel aims to capture the essence of what makes the Lupin III franchise so special. Whether you’re a devoted follower of Lupin’s escapades or just discovering this iconic series, this upcoming anime is sure to deliver a captivating experience filled with twists, turns, and the signature charm that fans have come to love. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey into the world of Lupin III, where every heist is an adventure, and every character has a story to tell.
