Lupin the Third: Episode 0: First Contact 2002
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 90 minutes
- Director
- Minoru Ohara
- Networks
- TMS Entertainment, Nippon Television Network Corporation
- Where to Stream
- Pluto TV
What is Lupin the Third: Episode 0: First Contact?
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.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 2002
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 90 minutes
- Release date
- Jul 26, 2002
- Original language
- JA
- Origin
- Japan
- Studios
- TMS Entertainment, Nippon Television Network Corporation
- Genres
- Animation, TV Movie, Action, Comedy
- Updated
At a glance
- Rating
- ★ TMDB users: 6.7/10 from 50 votes
- Episode runtime
- ~90 minutes
- Status
- Released
- Networks
- TMS Entertainment, Nippon Television Network Corporation
Where to watch in United States
Stream
Molotov TVStream
Amazon Prime Video
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With ads
Pluto TVStreaming availability data provided by JustWatch via TMDB. Availability changes by country and date; verify on the provider before subscribing or purchasing.
Trailer
No official trailer is available for this title yet.
Find the trailer on YouTube ↗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.
Should you watch it?
“Discover the origins of the legendary Lupin III crew in this definitive story of their first meeting.”
- Provides the canonical backstory for how the iconic team first crossed paths.
- Features a narrative structure framed by an interview with Jigen.
- Combines classic heist elements with the series' signature comedy and action.
- The framing device of a reporter interviewing Jigen may not appeal to viewers seeking a direct chronological narrative.
Watch it if you are a fan of the Lupin III franchise interested in the history of the main characters.
This television movie maintains a PG-13 tone with a mix of action and comedy, presented at a standard feature-length pace.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I stream this film?
Streaming availability for this title varies by region and platform; check local listings on services like Plex or other major providers.
Is it worth watching for new viewers?
Yes, as it serves as an origin story, it provides a foundational look at the characters for those unfamiliar with the series.
How long is the movie?
The film has a runtime of one hour and 30 minutes.
Are there other essential episodes to watch first?
This is a standalone television special, so it can be viewed independently of other entries in the franchise.
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