Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine

Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine is an engaging and fascinating animated TV series produced by FUNimation in 2012. The show is a captivating prequel to the popular Lupin III series, which was initially created by Monkey Punch in the late 1960s in Japan. It’s a series that is renowned for its mixing of humor, action, drama, and mystery, and "The Woman Called Fujiko Mine" takes these elements and adds a unique layer of depth and substance to the show’s enigmatic leading lady, Fujiko Mine.

The series is worth noting that this marked for the first time in the Lupin III franchise's four-decade history where the spotlight is solely on the illustrious and captivating Fujiko Mine, portraying her unexplored origins and giving the viewers an intimate understanding of her character.

Set in the backdrop of an eerily beautiful surrealistic scenery with the aesthetics reminiscent of a 1960s spy movie, the show begins when the master thief, Arsene Lupin III, encounters Fujiko Mine for the first time. The plot draws its charm from the shrouded ambiguity of the characters and the episodic narrative structure. It attempts to unravel the mysterious past of Fujiko while emphasizing her enigmatic presence, showcasing her as much more than the object of Lupin’s affections, but a complex individual with her own motivations and desires.

"Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine" is unique for its adult and sometimes graphic themes in comparison to the other series in the Lupin III franchise. Rather than simple cat and mouse games, the show digs deeper into the psyche of the characters, examining their drive and motives. Simultaneously, the series doesn't lose touch with the classic elements that captured Lupin's global appeal, such as high-octane heists, thrilling chase sequences and the intricate chess games between the protagonists.

The series also goes beyond the crime escapade genre it is traditionally categorized into, making it stand out in its distinctiveness. The viewers get to see Fujiko in her many facets – as she outwits the law, infiltrates high-security facilities, outsmarts her rivals, and teases and manipulates Lupin with her charms. There's plenty of action and suspense as Fujiko expertly handles a multitude of perilous situations with a cool demeanor and sultry smile.

Fujiko certainly is a mainstay character of the series, but the show also brings back familiar faces from the original series. Iconic characters like Inspector Zenigata – the relentless and determined lawman forever on Lupin’s tail, Jigen – a sharpshooter and Lupin's loyal accomplice, and Goemon – the master swordsman with unwavering principles, make their appearances, each with their own individual backstory and nuanced relationships with Fujiko.

The series' art-style and animation are a significant part of its charm. Employing an almost sketch-like style and frequently using dark shadows to accentuate the characters' emotions, this show has a distinctive, rich visual language that sets it apart from its precedents. The director, Sayo Yamamoto's stylistic touch is evident in the execution of this series– blending the nostalgic noir style seamlessly with modern animation techniques, creating an immersive visual delight for the audience.

The show doesn't shy away from its adult themes, making it a draw for mature viewers looking for a complex narrative and character exploration. It flows seamlessly from high-stakes crime thrillers to deeply intimate character study, while not losing its whimsical charm characteristic of the Lupin III franchise.

Overall, the series is much more than a mere extension of the Lupin III franchise. It's a daring reinvention that provides a deeper and more nuanced insight into the franchise's celebrated characters, predominantly Fujiko. With its skillful handcuffing of humor, action, voyeuristic thrills, mystery, and noir, "Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine" is undeniably an engaging watch that represents a significant evolution of the Lupin III series. The show not only respects the legacy of Monkey Punch's original manga but also boldly adds layers of complexity to it, making it a unique and unforgettable TV experience.