Ask John: Will There Ever be a Full Metal Panic Movie?

Question:
What do you think is the likelihood of a Full Metal Panic theatrical release?

Answer:
The Full Metal Panic anime franchise has had 3 television series and an OAV. Not all of the original Full Metal Panic novels have been adapted into animation, but the “Second Raid” television series did end with a feeling of finality. There has been no confirmation that there won’t be any new Full Metal Panic anime (such confirmations rarely happen), but I do have the distinct feeling that the Full Metal Panic anime franchise has run its course. Furthermore, when the announcement of the “Second Raid” anime production was first announced in Japan, the announcement was accompanied by the caveat that it could possibly be developed as a theatrical film. It wasn’t. In essence, I personally think that if there was ever going to be a theatrical Full Metal Panic motion picture, it would have already happened by now.

I’m not claiming to predict the future, but right now there are no known plans for more Full Metal Panic anime in Japan, and I don’t expect to see a fourth Full Metal Panic anime installment.