On April 18, the 28th film in the iconic Detective Conan series, titled Detective Conan: The One-Eyed Afterimage, hit Japanese theaters. By July 17—exactly 90 days later—it had drawn over 10 million viewers and grossed 144 billion yen (approximately $130 million USD), shattering records and cementing its place in cinematic history. This milestone marks the first time a Japanese film series has surpassed 10 million viewers for two consecutive years, a feat celebrated with a web-exclusive video featuring King Gnu’s electrifying theme song and standout scenes from the movie.
In this article, we’ll dive into the significance of this achievement, explore the rich history of the Detective Conan franchise, and analyze its impact on Japan’s film industry and anime culture. We’ll also offer a unique perspective on why this series continues to captivate audiences worldwide, blending suspense, nostalgia, and innovative marketing. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Conan Edogawa, here’s everything you need to know about this record-breaking phenomenon.
(Gosho Aoyama/Detective Conan Production Committee)
A Historic Milestone in Japanese Cinema
The numbers speak for themselves: Detective Conan: The One-Eyed Afterimage has redefined what’s possible for Japanese films. Reaching 10 million viewers in just 90 days is impressive enough, but doing so for two years running—following 2024’s Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram—sets a new benchmark. No other domestic film series in Japan’s history has achieved this level of consistent audience turnout.
The film kicked off with a bang, attracting 690,000 viewers and earning 10.5 billion yen on its opening day alone. Within 19 days, it crossed the 100-billion-yen mark, outpacing its predecessor (The Million-Dollar Pentagram) by three days. By comparison, 2023’s Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine took 24 days to hit 103 billion yen, while The Million-Dollar Pentagram reached 105 billion in 22 days. This accelerating success underscores the franchise’s growing momentum.
Toho, the film’s distributor, attributes this sustained popularity to creative initiatives that keep audiences returning. From May 30, the movie introduced SCREENX and ULTRA 4DX screenings—immersive formats new to the Detective Conan series. Exclusive digital illustrations by creator Gosho Aoyama were gifted to theatergoers, and starting June 6, an “audio commentary” screening offered behind-the-scenes insights from the cast and crew. “Even nearly two months after its release, customers keep coming back to enjoy the film from different angles,” Toho noted, highlighting the diverse experiences driving this box office juggernaut.
Unpacking the Story of The One-Eyed Afterimage
Set in the snowy mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Detective Conan: The One-Eyed Afterimage delivers a gripping tale of mystery and survival. The story centers on Kaname Date, a detective from the Nagano Prefectural Police, who pursues a suspect through a treacherous snowstorm. A bullet grazes his left eye, triggering an avalanche that nearly claims his life. Ten months later, Date miraculously returns to duty, only to find his scarred eye throbbing inexplicably at the Nobeyama Radio Observatory, where a researcher has been attacked.
Meanwhile, private detective Kogoro Mouri and his pint-sized genius sidekick, Conan Edogawa, are en route to meet a former colleague from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police when gunshots ring out. As the plot unfolds, the film reveals a hidden link between Date and Mouri through “dormant memories,” weaving their seemingly unrelated stories into a cohesive and emotionally charged narrative.
This blend of high-stakes action, intricate detective work, and personal drama is quintessential Detective Conan. The snowy Nagano setting—unusual for a series often rooted in urban environments—adds a fresh visual twist, while familiar characters like Conan and Kogoro anchor the story for fans.
The Legacy of Detective Conan: A Cultural Titan
To grasp why The One-Eyed Afterimage has shattered records, we need to step back and look at the Detective Conan franchise as a whole. Launched in 1994 as a manga by Gosho Aoyama, it follows Shinichi Kudo, a teenage sleuth shrunk into a child’s body after being poisoned by a shadowy syndicate. Adopting the alias Conan Edogawa, he solves crimes while unraveling the mystery of his transformation. The anime debuted in 1996, and the first film arrived in 1997, sparking a franchise that now spans manga, TV episodes, movies, games, and merchandise.
What’s behind this decades-long dominance? Several key elements stand out:
- Compelling Characters: Conan’s sharp mind contrasts with Kogoro’s comic blunders, creating a dynamic duo that’s both entertaining and endearing. Supporting characters like Ran Mouri and Heiji Hattori add depth and relatability.
- Clever Mysteries: Each case is a brain teaser, packed with red herrings and satisfying reveals that appeal to detective fiction fans.
- Universal Themes: Loyalty, justice, and perseverance resonate across cultures, broadening its appeal beyond Japan.
- Cultural Touchstones: The series often highlights Japanese landmarks, traditions, and technology—like Nagano’s radio observatory in this film—offering a window into the country’s heritage.
With over 100 billion yen in cumulative box office earnings, Detective Conan isn’t just a series—it’s a cultural institution. Its annual films are a springtime ritual for Japanese audiences, much like Hollywood’s summer blockbusters.
Marketing Mastery and Fan Loyalty
The record-breaking run of The One-Eyed Afterimage owes much to Toho’s savvy marketing and the franchise’s passionate fanbase. Beyond standard promotion, the film rolled out interactive and premium experiences:
- Enhanced Screenings: SCREENX (a 270-degree panoramic view) and ULTRA 4DX (motion seats and sensory effects) gave fans a visceral thrill.
- Exclusive Perks: Aoyama’s digital artwork rewarded repeat visitors, tapping into collectors’ enthusiasm.
- Audio Commentary: The June 6 screenings let fans hear cast reflections in real time, deepening their connection to the story.
These efforts turned a single viewing into a multi-visit event, sustaining momentum long after the premiere. The special web video, pairing King Gnu’s high-energy track with iconic scenes, further amplified buzz online, appealing to younger, digital-savvy audiences.
Fan engagement is the backbone of this success. Detective Conan has cultivated a multigenerational following—kids drawn to the adventure, adults hooked since the ‘90s. Comments from the team reflect this bond. Aoyama jokingly thanked fans, hoping TV host Uchida from Toppa File would shout “Breakthrough!” to mark the historic win. Voice actress Minami Takayama (Conan) called it a “testament to Conan love,” promising more “excitement, romance, comedy, and mystery.” Director Katsuya Shigahara credited the staff and fans alike, noting their support fuels each new chapter.
Ripple Effects on Japan’s Film Industry
The triumph of The One-Eyed Afterimage reverberates beyond the franchise, signaling anime’s rising clout in Japanese cinema. Recent years have seen the series climb to new heights: Black Iron Submarine (2023) earned 138.8 billion yen, The Million-Dollar Pentagram (2024) hit 158 billion, and now The One-Eyed Afterimage is poised to top them all. This upward trajectory bucks trends in an industry often overshadowed by Hollywood imports.
Anime films now rival live-action blockbusters in Japan, driven by loyal domestic audiences and growing global demand. The Detective Conan model—annual releases, multimedia synergy, and fan-centric extras—offers a blueprint for other studios. Its success may inspire more investment in animated features, especially as streaming platforms like Netflix and Crunchyroll amplify their reach overseas.
For Japan’s moviegoers, this milestone reinforces the theater’s allure in an age of digital consumption. By blending cutting-edge formats with exclusive content, Detective Conan proves cinema can thrive when it adapts to modern tastes while honoring tradition.
Why Detective Conan Endures: A Unique Take
What’s the secret sauce behind this franchise’s staying power? It’s a rare alchemy of consistency and reinvention. Each film delivers the familiar—Conan’s wit, Kogoro’s antics, a twisty case—while introducing fresh settings and stakes. The One-Eyed Afterimage swaps cityscapes for snow, yet retains the series’ heart.
Its broad appeal is another strength. Kids love the action; adults savor the nostalgia and layered storytelling. The interconnected universe—manga feeding anime, anime fueling films—creates a rich tapestry that rewards dedication. Unlike standalone blockbusters, Detective Conan builds a community, with fans dissecting clues across decades.
Marketing plays a pivotal role, too. By treating each release as an event, Toho taps into Japan’s event-driven culture, where limited-time offerings (like Aoyama’s sketches) spark urgency. This mirrors the country’s love for seasonal festivals and exclusive goods, making Detective Conan a pop culture fixture.
The Road Ahead for Detective Conan
With The One-Eyed Afterimage rewriting the record books, the franchise’s future looks limitless. Annual films are a safe bet, and international expansion—via dubbed releases and streaming—could elevate its global profile further. The core mystery of Shinichi’s quest to reclaim his body remains unresolved, ensuring narrative fuel for years to come.
For now, fans revel in this victory. As Takayama put it, it’s a “heartfelt call and response” between creators and audience—a dialogue that’s propelled Detective Conan to new heights. Whether you’re in Tokyo or abroad, the next case is just around the corner.
Conclusion: A Legacy in Motion
Detective Conan: The One-Eyed Afterimage isn’t just a film—it’s a milestone. Its 144-billion-yen haul and 10 million viewers in 90 days highlight the power of storytelling, fandom, and innovation. For Japan’s film industry, it’s a beacon of anime’s potential; for fans, it’s a celebration of a world they’ve cherished for nearly 30 years.
As the series charges toward its next adventure, one thing is clear: Detective Conan is more than a detective—it’s a cultural detective, uncovering what keeps audiences coming back. Here’s to the next breakthrough.
