Lupin III's Isekai Journey Nears Grand Finale as Franchise Unveils Major Film

The expansive universe of Lupin III is reaching a pivotal moment as the popular isekai spinoff manga, Lupin III: Neighbor World Princess, officially begins its thrilling final narrative arc. This unique series, a captivating blend of classic caper action and fantastical adventure, has redefined what fans expect from the legendary master thief.

Crafted by the talented Yōsuke Saeki as writer and brilliantly brought to life through the illustrations of Keyaki Uchi-Uchi, the manga first captivated readers upon its debut in Akita Shoten's Weekly Shōnen Champion magazine in August 2021. It swiftly built a dedicated following that surged further with the launch of its 'second season' in February 2022.

The innovative premise sees Lupin and his iconic companions unexpectedly whisked away to a mysterious fantasy realm. This journey is initiated by enigmatic doors and ancient, powerful coins. This fantastical setting has allowed for a fresh exploration of Lupin's cunning and charm, seamlessly integrating magical elements with the franchise's signature heist dynamics.

Fans eagerly anticipating the conclusion will note that the manga is slated to wrap up its compelling storyline in the current chapters. Its sixteenth volume hit shelves in July 2025, and the seventeenth, marking the series' grand finale, is scheduled for release in October.

Illustrator Keyaki Uchi-Uchi's versatility is also evident in their work on other notable adaptations, including Failure Frame: I Became the Strongest and Annihilated Everything With Low-Level Spells, which recently garnered an anime adaptation streamed globally by Crunchyroll.

Beyond the manga, the broader Lupin III franchise continues its remarkable resurgence. This is highlighted by an eagerly awaited 2D feature-length film from Telecom Animation Film, set to premiere in 2025 under the direction of Takeshi Koike. This cinematic event is particularly significant, arriving three decades after the last traditional 2D Lupin III movie.

The simultaneous evolution and culmination within both the manga and anime spheres underscore the enduring appeal and vibrant, creative spirit of the Lupin universe, masterfully balancing its cherished nostalgic heritage with bold, inventive storytelling across diverse media and genres.