Lupin the IIIrd: New Animated Movie by Takeshi Koike & Katsuhito Ishii Coming in 2025
Anime fans, rejoice! The iconic Lupin the IIIrd franchise is getting a brand-new animated movie, set to hit theaters next year. The project is set to be helmed by two visionary directors: Takeshi Koike, the master animator behind The Animatrix and Redline, and Katsuhito Ishii, the acclaimed director known for Redline and Mind Game. Together, these two creative forces are bringing a fresh and exciting chapter to the legendary thief’s story.
A New Era for Lupin the Third
The Lupin the Third series, created by Monkey Punch in 1967, has become one of the most beloved and enduring anime franchises in history. Following the exploits of Arsène Lupin III, the grandson of the famous French gentleman thief, the series has seen numerous iterations—from TV specials to feature films—each exploring different sides of Lupin’s adventures with his band of lovable criminals, including the suave Jigen, the charming Fujiko, and the ever-determined Zenigata.
While the franchise has enjoyed multiple adaptations, this new film promises to stand out thanks to the involvement of Takeshi Koike and Katsuhito Ishii. Known for their vibrant, high-energy animation style and boundary-pushing storytelling, the duo’s involvement promises an action-packed, visually stunning movie that will captivate both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.
The Dream Team: Koike & Ishii
Takeshi Koike is no stranger to fans of stylized, high-octane animation. As the director of Redline, the 2009 sci-fi racing film that is regarded as a modern animation masterpiece, Koike’s signature style blends fast-paced action, vibrant colors, and sharp, dynamic visuals. His work is known for its meticulously detailed animation and pulse-pounding sequences, making him a perfect fit for the high-stakes heists and adrenaline-fueled action that define Lupin the IIIrd.
Katsuhito Ishii, on the other hand, brings his unique brand of surreal, offbeat storytelling to the table. Known for his work on films like Mind Game and The Taste of Tea, Ishii’s direction often combines humor, absurdity, and deep emotion. This blend of influences from both directors has fans eagerly anticipating how they will tackle Lupin’s world—a mixture of comedy, action, and heart.
What to Expect
While details about the plot remain under wraps, it’s safe to expect the new Lupin the IIIrd film to be a rollercoaster of action, adventure, and intrigue. Given Koike and Ishii’s reputation for pushing the envelope, we can expect bold visual designs, intricate action scenes, and a strong sense of fun.
The movie is scheduled for release in 2025, and fans of the franchise are already buzzing with excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard Lupin aficionado or new to the series, this upcoming film is shaping up to be an essential addition to the Lupin the IIIrd legacy.
Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the release date—and prepare for an unforgettable heist!
