Lupin III: The First

Lupin III: The First is an action-packed, adventurous, and exhilarating 3D animated film that was released in Japan in 2019. A triumph in the world of animation and a love letter to the iconic Lupin III franchise, this film is told masterfully through action, suspense, and humor. Overflowing with vibrant colors, meticulous details, and spectacular visual effects, this film displays revolutionary animation that brings its beloved characters to life, offering a refreshing take on the familiar franchise.

The movie features the sophisticated and cunning master thief, Lupin III, the eponymous protagonist who’s adept at thievery, disguise, and evasion. Voiced to perfection by Kan'ichi Kurita, Lupin III is jovial, adventurous, and unpredictable—a character that carries the legacy of his infamous grandfather, the pioneering expert thief Arsené Lupin. With an unerring aim of achieving the impossible even with the world against him, the character quickly endeared himself to viewers.

Joining Lupin III in his riveting escapades are his loyal companions: the sharpshooter Daisuke Jigen, excellently voiced by Kiyoshi Kobayashi, and the expert samurai Goemon Ishikawa, brought to life by the versatile Daisuke Namikawa. They are completed by the enigmatic and beautiful Fujiko Mine, whose history with Lupin III adds layers of intrigue to the storyline. Inspector Zenigata, Lupin III's perennial adversary/accountability officer, also influences the plot significantly. The relational dynamics amongst these characters add depth and richness to the film, making each moment count.

In Lupin III: The First, the plot is driven by the pursuit of a legendary diary, "The Bresson Diary", which is believed to be the only artifact that can connect to the secrets and vast wealth left behind by Lupin III's grandfather, Arsène Lupin. However, Lupin III and his gang aren't the only ones after the diary. A terrifying cult with nefarious intentions is also plotting to get it. What ensues is a thrilling race against time, filled with daring heists, high-speed chases, close-quarter combat, and astounding escapes.

The storyline masterfully weaves in elements of history and archeology along with fantastical, larger-than-life exploits. The diverse locations span across continents, showcasing the film's global scale and ambition. Viewers can anticipate edge-of-the-seat sequences, riveting puzzles, and clever solutions as Lupin skillfully outwits his foes and navigates precarious situations. The narrative constantly keeps the audience wondering what the master thief will pull out of his hat next.

Despite the ample dose of suspense and adventure, the film doesn't shy away from humor. Banter between characters and Lupin's impish wit often injects a breezy lightness into the high-stake scenarios. The trademark humor interspersed throughout the film helps lift the mood and reminds us of the mirth that is characteristic of Lupin III and his gang.

The movie's sound design and music cannot go without mention, as it plays an integral part of the overall cinematic experience. The iconic Lupin III theme song is reworked beautifully, getting audiences into the mood right from the start. The film’s score is memorable and fitting, enhancing the excitement and tension of each scene.

Lastly, Lupin III: The First marks a significant shift for the Lupin III franchise. Having been traditionally animated for the majority of its existence, the movie pioneers the first full-CG animation style in the franchise's history. The transition from two-dimensional hand-drawn animation to three-dimensional computer-generated animation is flawless, with the design of the characters being highly faithful to their original aesthetic.

Lupin III: The First (2019) is an iconic addition to this long-running franchise, paying homage to its roots while simultaneously pushing its boundaries. It is a film that enriches the legacy of Lupin III while offering a spectacular visual feast to all audiences. Its clever narrative, charismatic characters, witty humor, and heart-racing action are bound to captivate the hearts of longstanding fans and new viewers alike.