Lupin the Third Continues Classic Legacy with New 2D Film and Ongoing Celebrations

Since debuting as a manga by Monkey Punch in 1967, Lupin the Third has become one of the most iconic and enduring franchises in anime history. The adventures of the gentleman thief Arsène Lupin III have spanned generations, evolving through multiple TV series, films, and specials while staying true to the stylish, rebellious spirit that defined classic anime.

A Legacy Born in the Golden Age of Anime

The first Lupin the Third anime television series aired in 1971, marking the franchise’s transition from manga to animation. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Lupin became synonymous with retro anime aesthetics: expressive character designs, jazzy soundtracks, and stories blending comedy, crime, and adventure.

Landmark entries such as The Castle of Cagliostro (1979), directed by Hayao Miyazaki, helped cement Lupin’s reputation internationally and influenced generations of animators. These early works remain central to the franchise’s identity and continue to be celebrated by fans of classic anime.

The Return to Classic 2D Animation in 2025

In 2025, Lupin the Third reaffirmed its commitment to traditional animation with the release of Lupin the IIIrd: The Movie , The Immortal Bloodline. The film premiered in Japanese theaters on June 27, 2025 and is notable as the franchise’s first full-length 2D animated theatrical film in nearly 30 years.

Directed by Takeshi Koike, the movie embraces a gritty, retro-inspired visual style that recalls classic Lupin specials while delivering a modern narrative. The story reunites Lupin with Jigen, Goemon, Fujiko, and Inspector Zenigata in a high-stakes heist that feels firmly rooted in the franchise’s classic era.

For international audiences, a North American theatrical screening is scheduled for January 4-6, 2026, allowing longtime fans to experience the return of classic Lupin on the big screen.

Prequels and Character-Focused Stories

Ahead of the film’s release, a prequel special titled Lupin the IIIrd: Zenigata and the Two Lupins was made available in Japan on June 20, 2025. This story shifts the spotlight to Inspector Zenigata, exploring his complex rivalry with Lupin while reinforcing the timeless cat-and-mouse dynamic that has defined the series since the 1970s.

These recent releases demonstrate how Lupin continues to expand its universe without abandoning the core elements that made it a classic of retro anime.

A Cultural Icon That Transcends Generations

Beyond animation, Lupin the Third remains a powerful cultural symbol. Its influence can be seen in modern anime storytelling, fashion-inspired character design, and even stage adaptations, including kabuki theater interpretations. The franchise’s signature blend of humor, elegance, and anti-hero charm has proven remarkably timeless.

With roots stretching back nearly six decades, Lupin continues to bridge the gap between anime’s past and present. The 2025 projects are not simply new entries, but celebrations of a legacy that began long before the digital era of animation.

Why Lupin the Third Still Matters

Lupin the Third endures because it respects its own history. While animation techniques and storytelling trends have changed dramatically since the 1970s, Lupin remains instantly recognizable. Its continued success proves that retro anime values—strong character identity, expressive animation, and timeless storytelling, still resonate today.

As 2025 demonstrates, Lupin the Third is not merely a nostalgic relic, but a living piece of anime history that continues to evolve while honoring its classic roots.