Patlabor EZY Anime Confirms Three-Part Theatrical Run Starting May 2026

The long-awaited reboot of the classic Mobile Police Patlabor franchise, Patlabor EZY, has officially confirmed its theatrical release schedule, beginning May 15, 2026. This new anime project is set to cover a total of eight episodes, which will be split across three feature films labeled 'File 1,' 'File 2,' and 'File 3.'

The initial films will handle the first six episodes as omnibus-style, standalone stories. File 1 is slated for release on May 15, 2026, followed by File 2 on August 14, 2026. The final installment, File 3, will conclude the series in March 2027, combining the last two episodes into a single feature.

A new teaser visual was released, showcasing the original AV-98 Ingram, piloted by Noa Izumi, facing off against the updated AV-98Plus Ingram. The AV-98Plus will be handled by newcomer Towa Kuga.

Sumire Uesaka is confirmed to voice Towa, the pilot for Ingram Unit 1, while Kikunosuke Toya will portray Commander Amatori Kippei.

Director Yutaka Izubuchi, who also helmed the 2022 pilot, is returning to direct the full series. Izubuchi has stated his goal is to deliver self-contained episodes that capture the spin-off feel of earlier Patlabor works, all set against a 2030s Japan dealing with issues of AI automation and labor shortages.

GENCO first introduced the Patlabor EZY concept during the 2017 Annecy festival. The pilot screened alongside a revival of Patlabor: The Movie in 2024.

Toya expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that the spirit of the Second Platoon remains relevant despite the changing times, promising the expected mix of laughs, warmth, and mecha action.