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Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: The Immortal Bloodline Streaming on Amazon Prime
The iconic Lupin III franchise is back with a thrilling new feature-length film, "Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: The Immortal Bloodline." Anime enthusiasts in North America can rejoice as this latest adventure will be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video starting March 24 at midnight EDT (March 23 at 9:00 p.m. PDT).
A New Chapter in the Lupin Saga
Theatrical Presence in the U.S.
Earlier this year, GKIDS brought "The Immortal Bloodline" to U.S. theaters for a limited screening from January 4-6. This theatrical release also unveiled the film’s English dub cast, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Plot Overview
The film’s narrative takes Lupin III, the suave gentleman thief, on another daring escapade. After surviving a series of assassination attempts, Lupin and his crew are lured to an uncharted island by a mysterious invitation. Trapped and under siege from the island’s inhabitants and a monstrous immortal entity, Muom, Lupin faces a threat to his legacy. A toxic fog envelops them, pushing Lupin to confront his most formidable adversary yet.
Creative Minds Behind the Film
Director and Screenplay
Returning to the helm is Takeshi Koike, known for his work in previous Lupin projects such as "Lupin III: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine." Yūya Takahashi, a seasoned writer in the franchise, also returns to craft the screenplay, ensuring continuity in storytelling.
Music and Production
James Shimoji, a familiar name in the Lupin series, provides the musical backbone of the film, while Katsuhito Ishii serves as a creative adviser. Production is spearheaded by TMS Entertainment, with distribution managed by TOHO NEXT. The film’s soundtrack is punctuated by the theme song "The IIIRD Eye" performed by the rock band B’z.
A Milestone for the Franchise
This release marks a significant moment as it is the first 2D feature-length anime film in the Lupin III series in nearly three decades since "Lupin III: Dead or Alive" in 1996. Previous installments, such as "Jigen’s Gravestone" and "Goemon’s Blood Spray," were not full-length features, while "Lupin III THE FIRST" (2019) was presented in CGI.
Expanding the Lupin Universe
Net Anime Prequel
Further enriching the Lupin universe, the net anime prequel "Lupin the IIIrd: Zenigata to Futari no Lupin" debuted in Japan on June 20, streaming on platforms including Amazon Prime Video. This series shifts the focus to Inspector Zenigata, Lupin’s long-time adversary and occasional ally. The storyline delves into a complex plot involving a terrorist attack in the fictitious "Roviet Union," with Zenigata at the center of unraveling a conspiracy involving more than one Lupin.
Final Thoughts
"Lupin the IIIrd The Movie: The Immortal Bloodline" promises to deliver a blend of action, suspense, and mystery that fans expect from the franchise. With a rich legacy and compelling new plotlines, this release not only rekindles the nostalgic appeal of Lupin III but also introduces new thrills for both veteran fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re gearing up for the digital release or catching up on the series, Lupin III continues to capture hearts and imaginations worldwide.
For more insights into the Lupin III franchise, check out this comprehensive guide.
