Detective Conan's Latest Film Roars to a Record-Breaking Start
The world of mystery and intrigue has once again captivated audiences across Japan, as the latest installment in the beloved Detective Conan franchise, Detective Conan: Highway no Datenshi, exploded onto the big screen. The 29th film in the series has not only met but exceeded expectations, setting a brand new opening day box office record for the franchise, proving the enduring appeal of the child detective and his thrilling adventures.
Unprecedented Box Office Triumph
On its opening day in Japan, Detective Conan: Highway no Datenshi sold an astounding 739,000 tickets, generating an impressive 1.13 billion yen (approximately US$7.1 million). This phenomenal performance establishes a new benchmark for the franchise, surpassing the previous record held by last year's highly successful Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback, which earned 1.05 billion yen on its first day. The significant jump in earnings highlights the growing anticipation and dedication of fans, reinforcing Detective Conan's status as a powerhouse in the Japanese cinema landscape.
A New Case on the Open Road
Highway no Datenshi delves into a fresh mystery centered around the character Chihaya Hagiwara. As a prominent member of the Kanagawa Prefectural Police and the respected leader of its motorcycle division, Chihaya brings a new dynamic to the investigative narrative. Fans will recognize Miyuki Sawashiro lending her voice to Chihaya, taking over the role. The film also features a roster of familiar faces and intriguing connections, including Kanagawa inspector Jugo Yokomizo, the sharp teenage detective Masumi Sera, Chihaya's late younger brother Kenji Hagiwara, and Kenji's Police Academy classmate Jinpei Matsuda. This rich ensemble promises a complex and emotionally resonant plot.
The Visionary Creative Team
Behind this record-breaking success is a team of seasoned creators. Takahiro Hasui, known for his work on Detective Conan: The Black Iron Submarine, returned to direct the film, bringing his unique vision to the screen. The intricate script was penned by Takahiro Ōkura, celebrated for his contributions to titles like Detective Conan: The Crimson Love Letter. The film's atmospheric score, designed to heighten suspense and emotion, was composed by Yūgo Kanno, who also lent his musical talents to Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback. Adding another layer of depth, Misia performs the captivating theme song “Last Danced Anata to” (Last Dance With You), ensuring an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Following in the Footsteps of a Blockbuster
The success of Highway no Datenshi is built upon a strong foundation laid by its predecessor. Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback, which opened in Japan in April 2025, debuted at the number one spot at the Japanese box office. Its incredible run saw it become the 19th highest-grossing film of all time in Japan in June, and it currently stands as the 20th highest-grossing film, with an impressive 14.74 billion yen (about US$95.1 million) in earnings. Directed by Katsuya Shigehara and scripted by Takeharu Sakurai, One-eyed Flashback set a high bar, which Highway no Datenshi has now triumphantly cleared for opening day performance.
The Future of the Franchise Shines Bright
The record-breaking debut of Detective Conan: Highway no Datenshi is a testament to the enduring legacy and ever-growing popularity of the franchise. With compelling new characters, a talented creative team, and the continued support of its dedicated fanbase, Detective Conan films continue to be a dominant force in Japanese animation. Fans can look forward to more thrilling mysteries and high-octane action from this iconic series.
