Watch Initial D: Third Stage

Initial D: Third Stage is an exciting and action-packed anime movie released in 2001, produced by Studio Gallop and OB Planning. The movie is the third installment in the Initial D series and is an adaptation of the manga series written and illustrated by Shuichi Shigeno. The movie is licensed and dubbed in English by FUNimation, featuring the voice talents of Chris Ayres, Greg Ayres, and Christopher Bevins.

The story takes place after the events of the second season of the Initial D anime series, which follows Takumi Fujiwara, a young high school student who works as a delivery boy for his father's tofu shop by day and a skilled street racer by night. Takumi's driving ability and instincts have led him to become the most feared driver on the mountain roads of Gunma Prefecture in Japan.

In Initial D: Third Stage, Takumi's skills are once again put to the test when he learns that his girlfriend, Natsuki Mogi, has been offered a job opportunity in a different city, which would mean leaving Gunma and potentially ending their relationship. Takumi must decide whether to follow Natsuki or stay behind and continue his racing life on the mountain roads.

During this time, Takumi is also approached by a rival street racing team from Kanagawa called the Emperor, led by a young and talented driver named Ryosuke Takahashi. The Emperor challenges Takumi and his team from Gunma, the Akagi RedSuns, to a race on the dangerous and infamous C1 expressway in Tokyo. The race becomes a battle between the two teams, with not just their pride but their homes and territories on the line.

The movie features high-speed racing action and thrilling drifts, accompanied by a pumping soundtrack that sets the mood for each race. The animation is fluid and impressive, with sharp and detailed character designs that perfectly capture the intensity of the racing scenes.

The English voice cast is exceptional, with Chris Ayres delivering a standout performance as the cold and calculating Ryosuke Takahashi. Greg Ayres also does an excellent job as Takumi Fujiwara, perfectly conveying his quiet and reserved nature while also showing his determination as a driver. Christopher Bevins rounds out the cast as Kenta Nakamura, one of Takumi's teammates who provides some comic relief with his antics.

One of the most notable aspects of Initial D: Third Stage is the focus on character development and relationships. The movie explores Takumi's internal struggle as he decides whether to follow Natsuki or stay behind and continue his racing life. The relationship between Takumi and Natsuki is also given more attention, providing more depth to their characters and their dynamic.

The movie also delves into the rivalry between the two street racing teams, showing the motivations behind their actions and the consequences of their decisions. It's a refreshing change of pace from the usual street racing anime and adds more weight to the races themselves.

Overall, Initial D: Third Stage is an exceptional anime movie that delivers on all fronts. With its thrilling racing scenes, memorable characters, and engaging storyline, it's a must-watch for fans of the series and newcomers alike. FUNimation's excellent dubbing only adds to the experience, making it a great addition to any anime collection.