Released on July 9, 1983, this theatrical version was edited from the TV series with new cuts added. Distributed by Shochiku, it was double-featured with "Document: Fang of the Sun Dougram" and "Choro Q Dougram," both directed by Ryosuke Takahashi. Produced from the start with the double feature in mind and constrained by a runtime of under 90 minutes, it was not made as a compilation focusing on the main story. Instead, it became a recollection-style work incorporating behind-the-scenes insights. There were even scenes where cel painting was intentionally halted mid-process, directly filming the animation cels, accompanied by on-screen text stating, "This is direct animation filming! This is what happens when you run out of time." Additionally, while the ending up to the point where everyone, centered on Elchi and Jiron, runs remains the same, Arthur Rank—believed to have died—appears and offers treatment to Elchi, who has lost her eyesight. Regarding this alteration, Tomino commented that it was produced under the decision to make "a work where no one dies," and because "Arthur's death and Elchi's blindness in the TV version had left an unpleasant aftertaste that lingered in relation to the overall mood of the work."