Lupin the Third: Episode 0: First Contact 2002

Overview

Lupin the Third: Episode 0: First Contact is a 2002 animated television movie that explores the origins of the franchise's central characters. The film functions as a narrative prequel, depicting the initial meeting between the members of the core cast. The plot centers on a high-stakes stickup involving an ancient artifact that Daisuke Jigen is tasked with protecting. Lupin III and Fujiko Mine both pursue this item, while Goemon Ishikawa seeks a lost treasure belonging to his clan in the same vicinity. Inspector Zenigata is also present, trailing the group during these events. Classified under the genres of animation, action, comedy, and crime, the production has a total runtime of one hour and thirty minutes. The film was released in the United States on March 30, 2010. It is recognized as a television film and maintains a documented history within the Lupin III series archives. This project serves to illustrate how the paths of these iconic figures first crossed during their early criminal careers.