Lupin III: The First (2019)

Lupin III: The First is that rare legacy revival that feels both freshly cinematic and lovingly true to its roots, turning a classic gentleman-thief caper into a buoyant, globe-trotting roller coaster. Takashi Yamazaki’s slick CGI animation gives every chase, gadget, and narrow escape a tactile pop, while the film’s tone stays delightfully old-school: playful, romantic, and just a little mischievous, with the gang’s chemistry doing as much work as the set pieces. Beneath the zaniness there’s a pulpy mystery hook—coded diaries, secret histories, and villains with ugly ambitions—that keeps the momentum humming without getting grim. If you want a smart, high-energy adventure that feels like Saturday-matinee escapism polished to a shine, this is a great time; if you’re allergic to broad cartoon antics or light fan-service, it may not fully win you over.

Lupin III: The First is clearly aiming to be a slick, crowd-pleasing “classic adventure” reboot, swapping the series’ usual breezy mischief for a more straightforward globe-trotting treasure hunt with high-stakes villains. The problem is it often plays things safe: the plot hits familiar beats, the mystery doesn’t linger in your head, and the trademark Lupin gamesmanship and playful banter can feel thinner than longtime fans might hope. On the upside, the animation and action staging are energetic and polished, and the core cast still has enough charm to carry you through the set pieces. If you want a stylish, easy-to-digest caper, it’ll do the job; if you’re craving a sharper, more inventive Lupin with more conversational swagger, this may feel like a well-made appetizer rather than a full meal.