Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I – Initiation (2017)

The Beginning of the Rebellion

The first film in the Code Geass recap trilogy, Initiation reintroduces fans to Lelouch vi Britannia’s fateful uprising against a tyrannical empire. With refined animation and re-recorded voice work, it marks the start of a newly revised timeline — one that sets the stage for a different ending to the saga.

Movie Overview

Title: Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I – Initiation
Runtime: 135 minutes
Release Date: October 21, 2017
Studio: Sunrise
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Prime Video
Theme Song: “Red” by FLOW

Story Summary

The story begins in an alternate timeline of 2017, when the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered Japan, renaming it Area 11. Among the oppressed Elevens lives Lelouch vi Britannia, a former prince living in exile.

After a chance encounter with a mysterious green-haired girl named C.C., Lelouch obtains a power known as Geass, allowing him to command anyone to obey his will. With this power, he dons the mask of Zero and launches a rebellion to destroy Britannia from within — all while protecting his sister, Nunnally.

While Initiation covers much of the original anime’s first half, it reimagines key scenes, tightens pacing, and subtly alters character interactions, laying the foundation for the new film continuity that diverges from the TV version.

Major Arcs Covered

• Lelouch’s Awakening: The prince gains Geass and begins his rebellion.

• Formation of the Black Knights: Lelouch unites allies to fight against Britannia.

• Suzaku’s Struggle: Torn between ideals and duty as he pilots the Lancelot.

• The Battle for Narita: Zero’s strategies earn him fame — and new enemies.

Main Characters

• Lelouch vi Britannia / Zero: A brilliant strategist seeking revenge and justice.

• C.C.: The mysterious immortal who grants Lelouch the power of Geass.

• Suzaku Kururugi: Lelouch’s childhood friend and moral opposite, loyal to Britannia.

• Kallen Stadtfeld: A fiery resistance fighter and key Black Knights member.

• Nunnally vi Britannia: Lelouch’s blind and kind-hearted sister, his driving purpose.

Themes and Style

• Rebellion & Morality: How far can justice go before it becomes tyranny?

• Power & Responsibility: Lelouch’s struggle to wield Geass without losing humanity.

• Friendship & Betrayal: The tragic divide between Lelouch and Suzaku.

• Sacrifice for Change: Freedom’s price is always steep.

Animation & Visuals

Sunrise enhances the original series’ visuals with remastered animation, modern color grading, and newly animated sequences. The film delivers cinematic energy to iconic battles like the Narita conflict and Shinjuku uprising, while the orchestral score re-recorded by Hitomi Kuroishi adds emotional resonance.

Where to Watch

You can stream or purchase Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I – Initiation on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix

• Prime Video

Popularity & Reception

The film received acclaim from longtime fans for its polished presentation and emotional nostalgia. Viewers praised the updated animation, music, and pacing — though some noted the absence of deeper character moments from the original TV series. It successfully set up the foundation for the revised movie trilogy timeline.

Final Thoughts

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I – Initiation (2017) serves as both a celebration and a fresh beginning for one of anime’s greatest sagas. Whether you’re returning to the rebellion or discovering it anew, this film rekindles the spark of Lelouch’s revolution with cinematic brilliance.