The latest theatrical release in the popular Mobile Suit Gundam SEED series, "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom," concluded its nationwide screening on May 23, except in select theaters. The film, which premiered on January 26, enjoyed a long run of approximately four months. As of May 22, it had grossed an impressive 4.82 billion yen and attracted over 2.88 million viewers, marking it as a major hit. This success surpasses the approximately 2.3 billion yen earned by "Mobile Suit Gundam III: Encounters in Space" released in 1982, setting a new record for the highest box office revenue in the history of the Gundam series' theatrical releases in 42 years. Additionally, it was announced that the film will be available for streaming on Netflix and Prime Video starting June 8, offering the fastest access for unlimited viewing.
The Mobile Suit Gundam SEED series explores the conflict between genetically enhanced humans (Coordinators) and naturally born humans (Naturals). "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED" originally aired from October 2002 to September 2003, followed by its sequel "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED DESTINY" from October 2004 to October 2005.
"Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom" is the sequel to "SEED DESTINY," and it reunites director Mitsuo Fukuda and other staff from the TV anime. The film was announced in 2006, but no further news was released for a long time. It was finally released about 18 years after the announcement. In the three days since its release on January 26th, the box office revenue exceeded 1.06 billion yen, making it the best start for a film in the "Gundam" series.