Movie
Description
Goemon Ishikawa XIII is a master swordsman and the thirteenth-generation descendant of the legendary outlaw Ishikawa Goemon. He is a central member of the Lupin III gang, known for his unwavering dedication to the way of the samurai and his possession of the Zantetsuken, a mythical blade said to be capable of cutting through virtually any substance. In the crossover film Lupin III vs. Detective Conan The Movie, Goemon brings his formidable skills to a heist orchestrated by Lupin, specifically targeting the Cherry Sapphire, a jewel with significant political implications.

Goemon's personality is defined by a stoic and disciplined demeanor. He spends considerable time meditating and adheres strictly to traditional Japanese customs, including his diet and manner of dress. He possesses immense pride in his abilities as a samurai and his sword, and he experiences profound shame whenever he fails to complete an objective or when the Zantetsuken is damaged. Despite his serious and reserved nature, Goemon has a notable weakness for women, often becoming shy or flustered in their presence, a trait that can lead him into troublesome situations. His traditional values frequently clash with Lupin's frivolous and unscrupulous methods, resulting in visible irritation, yet his loyalty to the gang is absolute when it matters most.

In the movie, Goemon's motivations are directly tied to the schemes of his accomplice, Fujiko Mine. He is coerced into assisting Lupin's plan after Fujiko places an explosive collar on him, showcasing the manipulative dynamics that often exist within the group. To execute the heist, he adopts the alias Eishin Wakagomo and infiltrates a bank, demonstrating his adaptability by posing as the owner of the Cherry Sapphire to execute a covert exchange with the film's antagonist, Alan Smithee. His role is primarily that of an instrumental ally whose swordsmanship provides critical support during the action sequences, such as when he cuts through Conan Edogawa's turbo-engine skateboard.

Goemon's key relationships are well-established. He holds a deep, albeit often exasperated, respect for Lupin III, having originally been his enemy before switching sides and becoming one of his most trusted associates. He shares a more amicable and respectful bond with Daisuke Jigen, the group's gunman, based on a mutual warrior understanding. Conversely, he maintains a general distrust of Fujiko Mine, recognizing her exploitative nature, though he will come to her aid if the situation demands it.

Regarding his development, Goemon's backstory explains that he initially sought to kill Lupin for stealing a family secret. Through repeated confrontations, he came to respect the thief and forged a pragmatic alliance based on skill. In the movie itself, he functions as a fully-formed character whose core traits and loyalties are tested within the context of the crossover plot.

Goemon's most notable ability is his unparalleled swordsmanship with the Zantetsuken. He can slice through steel, vehicles, and even bullets, a skill he demonstrates with precision. In battle, he often refrains from lethal force, instead opting to shred an opponent's weapons or clothing, after which he customarily quips, "I have cut yet another worthless object". Beyond the blade, he is a master of several martial arts, including Kenjutsu, Battōjutsu, Jujutsu, Aikido, and Karate. Despite his traditionalist image, he possesses a surprising range of practical skills, including piloting aircraft, though some modern technologies can baffle him depending on the portrayal.
Cast