After the success of the Netflix series Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance, a new film arrives that promises to excite fans of the emblematic mecha universe, but only in Japan
An exclusive experience for visitors to LaLaport Mall
The film, titled Mobile Suit Gundam: ALC Encounterpremiered on November 24, 2024. The screenings, which take place nightly at 7pm and 8.30pm, take place directly on one of the mall’s walls, next to the impressive life-size statue of Nu. Gundam RX-93ff v. According to the official press release, the screening appears to be free for anyone in the area, although an end date for the exhibitions has not yet been specified.
The event is part of a special promotion around this statue, one of the newest additions to the life-size Gundam universe in Japan. Since 2009, various versions of these behemoths have appeared in different parts of the country, fusing pop culture and entertainment to captivate followers and the curious alike.
What is the new film about?
The official Nu Gundam website offers an intriguing synopsis of the film:
“In a quiet shopping centre, shortly before closing, two people, attracted by the voice of a singing woman, meet. What begins as a simple encounter leads to a confrontation that activates a nearby mobile suit, bringing the battle inside the mall. But who is this mysterious woman?”
With a running time of approximately 30 minutes, the film promises the intense action and drama characteristic of the Gundam series. The trailer, released on the official X account @gundam_45th as part of the series’ 45th anniversary celebrations, has generated enormous anticipation among fans.
History and relevance of a mecha icon
The statue protagonist of this event is not just any Gundam. The RX-93ff v Gundam is a variant of the Nu Gundam that debuted in the film. Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack of 1988. This mobile suit, piloted by the legendary Amuro Ray, marked a technological milestone within the saga by facing Char Aznable’s MSN-04 Sazabi, one of the most memorable villains in the Gundam universe.
Now the Nu Gundam returns, but with a modern twist Meeting with the ALC. Will he be able to face the new threats posed by this story? Only lucky visitors to Fukuoka will find out.
Will there be hope for international fans?
While the exclusivity of the event thrilled Japanese fans, it also generated frustration among fans in other parts of the world. Many hope that this experience will become accessible internationally, whether through streaming platforms or digital releases.
The franchise has been a pioneer in the mecha genre since its debut in 1979. With a legacy spanning decades of series, films, video games and collectible models, its impact on global pop culture is undeniable. Events like the premiere of Meeting with the ALC They not only celebrate this legacy, but also keep the excitement alive among generations of fans.
For those unable to travel to Japan, the hope remains that Bandai Namco and Sunrise will consider sharing this experience with global audiences. Meanwhile, the Fukuoka Nu Gundam stands as a beacon for mecha enthusiasts looking to experience the magic of the saga in all its splendor.