The upcoming film LUPIN THE IIIRD THE MOVIE: Fujimi no Ketsuzoku, set to premiere in Japan on September 27, marks the first 2D theatrical release for the Lupin the Third series in nearly 30 years since Lupin the Third: DEAD OR ALIVE (1996). Ahead of the premiere, a Japan special screening event was held in Tokyo on the 19th, featuring voice cast members Kanichi Kurita, Akio Otsuka, Daisuke Namikawa, Miyuki Sawashiro, Koichi Yamadera, Ainosuke Kataoka, and director Takeshi Koike.

Kanichi Kurita, who has voiced Lupin since 1995 following the death of original actor Yasuo Yamada, reflected on his early days:

“Back then, I only did impressions of Yamada-san's famous line ‘Fujiko-chan~’. I had never seen him actually voice Lupin in the studio,” Kurita shared. “Suddenly, I was thrown into the booth among all the legends—it was like being told, ‘Go pitch in for Shohei Ohtani!’ before I even knew which way was right. And now, before I knew it, it’s been 30 years.”

Koichi Yamadera, who took over the role of Inspector Zenigata in 2011 from the late Goro Naya, opened up about his own challenges. “From the beginning, I tried to make sure my performance didn’t feel out of place compared to Naya-san’s. But online, I’d often see the word ‘discomfort’ pop up. Honestly, it really got me down at times.”

Story Summary of the New Film

The new film is set on a mysterious island not found on any map, promoted under the tagline: “You still don’t know the real Lupin.” The plot sees Lupin and his crew heading into the Bermuda Triangle. However, as they approach the island, their plane is shot down, forcing them to crash-land on a deadly shore.

The island is ruled by Muom, a man who claims to be immortal and seeks to govern the world through selective elimination. Confronted with an enemy impervious to bullets or blades, Lupin must rely on his wit, pride, and the code he lives by as a thief to face this unprecedented threat.

Special guest voice actors include kabuki star Ainosuke Kataoka as the formidable and immortal villain Muom, and Aoi Morikawa as Sarifa, a mysterious girl who serves him.

Source : ORICON NEWS