Celebrating Gundam's Legacy: The Ultimate Film Festival Experience at Japan Society

Gundam Film Festival Takes Over New York

During the bustling New York Comic Con weekend, Gundam enthusiasts converged on Japan Society, marking a vibrant celebration of the renowned franchise hosted by Bandai Namco Filmworks. This unique event, dubbed the Gundam Film Festival, was more than just screenings; it was a comprehensive homage to decades of Gundam history.

From October 11 to 12, the Japan Society's theater buzzed with excitement as fans gathered for English-dubbed screenings of iconic Gundam films. Among the highlighted features was the beloved "Mobile Suit Gundam Wing Endless Waltz Special Edition," alongside the most recent entry in the Gundam lineage, "Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway." The festival encapsulated the spirit of the franchise, drawing fans of all ages into the captivating world of mechas and epic narratives.

On the first day of the festival, attendees were treated to a special screening of "Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-". This event featured the exclusive distribution of the deluxe booklet ANNO SCENARIO DESIGN WORKS 2, along with two types of collectible film frames, all debuting in the U.S. for the first time. This introduction not only celebrated Gundam's cinematic legacy but also fostered an atmosphere of community among the attendees, who eagerly exchanged their thoughts during the breaks.

The second day highlighted a double feature of fan-favorite films: "Mobile Suit Gundam Wing Endless Waltz Special Edition" and "Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway." Cast members, including Mark Hildreth, the voice actor of Heero Yuy, interacted with the audience, sharing insights into their characters’ journeys and reflecting on the enduring impact of the Gundam series. Hildreth’s nostalgic trip down memory lane resounded with fans, as he performed iconic lines live, generating electric applause and moments of cherished laughter. He urged the audience to visit the newly launched Gundam Official Website while rallying participation in the Global Gundam Poll 2025.

In a heartfelt address, Hildreth expressed gratitude for Gundam's longstanding popularity. "New York Comic Con is happening right now, and the response we've received for Gundam over the years has been nothing short of overwhelming," he stated. This sentiment echoed among the fandom, highlighting the franchise's remarkable knack for fostering loyalty and enthusiasm.

Later that day, the audience was captivated by an appearance from Megan Shipman, the voice of Gigi Andalucia from "Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway," and Aaron B. Phillips, who voices Kenneth Sleg. They provided a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the English recording process, shedding light on the complexities of transforming the multifaceted characters of Gundam into relatable voices. They enthusiastically unveiled a new trailer for the upcoming film, "Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe," further igniting anticipation among the fans.

Shipman's insights brought to life the profound dedication of the fan base, saying, "When you have fans this passionate about Gundam, being part of any project feels intensely rewarding. It's special to witness such unwavering support. Thank you to everyone for being here and making these events special!"

As the festival concluded, the announcement of the theatrical release of "Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe" was met with cheers, ensuring that the franchise's unique blend of storytelling would continue to thrive in cinemas across the United States.

In essence, the Gundam Film Festival at Japan Society was not merely a film screening event; it was a microcosm of the Gundam universe, intertwined with the fervent appreciation of its fanbase. It illustrated Gundam's remarkable ability to adapt across generations, continuously evolving while remaining faithful to its core themes of struggle, heroism, and humanity's resilience.

With activities that included immersive experiences and film screenings, the event truly brought Gundam's world to life, fostering connections between longtime fans and newcomers alike. Bandai Namco Filmworks' celebration underscored Gundam's broad appeal and enduring impact on popular culture. For additional information about the franchise, upcoming events, or film screenings, enthusiasts can visit the official Gundam website at gundam-official.com.