機動警察パトレイバー EZY (Kidou Keisatsu Patlabor EZY), the latest animation work from the legendary creative collective HEADGEAR, opened in theaters on May 15, 2026 as a three-part series. The project was first announced in 2017, previewed in a trailer at an event in 2022, and officially unveiled as the “2026 Project” in September 2024.
Most recently, a wave of famous names and prominent creators long associated with the Patlabor franchise — along with those personally connected to director Yutaka Izubuchi — sent their warm congratulations and expressions of affection for this new work, totaling 14 people.
Messages from Notable Figures and Creators
Hideaki Anno, the director and producer famous for Evangelion and Shin Godzilla, who collaborated with Izubuchi as planner and Executive Producer on Kidou Keisatsu Patlabor REBOOT (2016), commented that this work directly reflects everything Izubuchi’s team has always held onto — what was gained, and what was lost — in a world where giant robots walking the streets is simply everyday life. Anno also noted his admiration for Izubuchi’s resolve in crediting Mamoru Oshii’s name.
Erina Mano, the actress who played the lead role in the live-action series THE NEXT GENERATION Patlabor, shared that the atmosphere of the special unit Section 2 felt familiar and comforting, while each character shines with distinct individuality — and the Ingram still looks as cool as ever. She expressed how delighted she was to see this new work.
Nobuyuki Sakuma, a TV producer who grew up alongside the Patlabor era, exclaimed with excitement: “At first I was nervous, then completely absorbed, and now — it’s over?! Watching it made me realize how much I love Patlabor, because it’s so serious and cool at this level.”
Sumito Owara, the manga artist who openly declared himself a lifelong fan, voiced his support enthusiastically and emotionally: “Yes!! This is definitely Patlabor!! Thank you, Patlabor! Keep going, our Patlabor!!”
Further congratulatory messages were received from other individuals, including:
- Toma Osaka (novelist) — noted that even though Mamoru Oshii won’t be part of this project, Oshii fans should still watch it to the very end
- Tsunehiro Uno (critic) — praised the courage of this project in creating something new rather than recycling the old
- Kenji Kawai (series composer) — remarked simply: “I’ve spent half my life with Patlabor, and I still can’t get enough.”
- Tsukasa Kotobuki (designer and manga artist) — said the work has the nostalgic charm that feels just right for those who watched it from their youth
- Osamu Suzuki (Startup Factory executive) — praised the work for pointing to a future we must reckon with, connecting it to themes of AI and humanity’s role in the modern age
- Nobuyoshi Habara (animation director) — noted that the work conceals layers of complexity beneath a clean visual style, with meticulous attention to detail
- Shinji Higuchi (storyboard director / episode 3 and opening) — expressed his full enthusiasm about joining whenever Izubuchi is the one calling
- Mafia Kajita — praised the work as the crystallization of determination to respond to every kind of fan
- Hisanori Yoshida (freelance announcer) — said Patlabor genuinely saved his life and he still feels a sense of “I made it!” even in 2026
- Kohei Yoshino (film director) — said he received a clear, detailed answer to his personal question of “What exactly is Patlabor?”
Week 2 Giveaway: A Complete Logo Sticker Set
For those who see File 1 during week 2 — between May 22–28, 2026 — a special premium sticker set will be distributed as a theater gift. A single sheet contains up to 6 different logos: the main work logo, the Section 2 special unit logo, the Shinohara Heavy Industries logo, and the Hercules Powered logo as seen in the story, all sized to be easily peeled apart and applied to a smartphone or notebook.
Staff Talk “Bucchan’s Room” — Part 1
A post-screening staff talk event has also been announced under the name “ぶっちゃんの部屋 (Bucchan no Heya)”, where director Izubuchi will have candid conversations with the staff and invited guests. Part 1 will be held at Shinjuku Piccadilly in Tokyo on May 26, 2026 at 19:15, featuring director Izubuchi and producer Taro Maki. Tickets are priced at 2,500 yen (tax included).
© HEADGEAR / 機動警察パトレイバーEZY製作委員会
Source: aniani
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