The Gundam franchise is set to celebrate its rich history with the release of a new trilogy of compilation films. According to Gundam.info, Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin will debut as a re-edited “Movie Edition” trilogy. This highly anticipated release, which marks the 45th anniversary of the original Mobile Suit Gundam TV series, will first be shown in Tokyo on September 13, with a nationwide release scheduled for October 25.
A Dive into Char Aznable’s Origins
The trilogy, edited by Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin director Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, will consist of three films: Char/Sayla Arc, Kaisen-hen (The Outbreak of War Arc), and Loum Arc. The anime originally aired from 2015 to 2018 as a six-part series, focusing on Char Aznable, the infamous “Red Comet” and a key antagonist to Gundam’s hero, Amuro Ray. It was later adapted into a 13-episode TV anime series in 2019.
A Retelling of a Classic Tale
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin is based on Yasuhiko’s manga of the same name, which reimagines the 1979 anime series. Yasuhiko, who was also the original character designer for the franchise, has overseen the creation of this new trilogy, offering fans a fresh way to experience the classic story and celebrate the legacy of the franchise, which has grown into a multi-media empire including TV, film, manga, and model kits.
New Developments in the Gundam Universe
In addition to the Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin trilogy, Gundam enthusiasts can look forward to Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance, a groundbreaking net animation series. Utilizing computer animation—a first for the franchise—the series is created with Unreal Engine technology and will premiere on Netflix on October 17. Directed by Erasmus Brosdau and written by Gavin Hignight, Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance is set during the One Year War and follows Zeon pilot Iria Sorari as she defends the European front against Earth Federation forces. Co-produced by Bandai Namco Filmworks and SAFEHOUSE, this series promises a unique addition to the Gundam universe.
A Banner Year for Gundam
This year has been significant for Gundam fans, starting with the release of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom, a sequel to Mobile Suit Gundam SEED and Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny. Released in January, the film grossed over $32 million, becoming the highest-grossing film in the franchise’s history. With a mix of classic and innovative content, the new trilogy and upcoming series promise to make this a standout year for the beloved mecha franchise.