The legendary gentleman thief, Arsène Lupin III, has graced the silver screen countless times, captivating audiences with his daring heists and charming personality. But just how many Lupin III movies are out there? As of October 26, 2023, the answer is a resounding 14 animated theatrical feature films and 2 live-action theatrical feature films, for a total of 16 theatrical movies featuring the world’s greatest thief.
Lupin III on the Big Screen: A Comprehensive Guide
Lupin III’s journey through the world of cinema has been a fascinating one, marked by evolving animation styles, diverse storylines, and enduring popularity. From early classics to modern masterpieces, the Lupin III movies offer something for everyone. This guide will navigate you through the entire theatrical filmography, offering context, insights, and answers to your burning questions.
Animated Theatrical Feature Films: A Master Thief in Motion
The core of Lupin III’s cinematic adventures lies in its animated features. These films capture the essence of the character and his gang, bringing their wild escapades to life with vibrant animation and inventive storytelling. From the hand-drawn artistry of the early entries to the sleek visuals of the modern productions, each movie provides a unique Lupin III experience.
List of Animated Theatrical Films:
- Lupin the 3rd: The Secret of Mamo (1978)
- Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro (1979)
- Lupin the 3rd: The Legend of the Gold of Babylon (1985)
- Lupin the 3rd: Farewell to Nostradamus (1995)
- Lupin the 3rd: Dead or Alive (1996)
- Lupin the 3rd: Lupin the 3rd vs. Detective Conan: The Movie (2013) (Crossover with Detective Conan)
- Lupin the 3rd: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine (Compilation Film – 2014)
- Lupin the 3rd: Daisuke Jigen’s Gravestone (2014)
- Lupin the 3rd: Goemon Ishikawa’s Spray of Blood (2017)
- Lupin the 3rd: Fujiko Mine’s Lie (2019)
- Lupin the 3rd: The First (2019) – 3D CG animated
- Lupin III vs. Lupin III (2023) (Crossover with Lupin the 3rd Part 6 series)
- Lupin the 3rd: Goodbye Partner (2024)
- Lupin the 3rd: 50th Anniversary film (TBA)
Live-Action Theatrical Feature Films: A Different Perspective
While animation is synonymous with Lupin III, the character has also been brought to life in live-action films. These movies offer a different interpretation of the Lupin III universe, exploring the character and his world through the lens of live-action filmmaking.
List of Live-Action Theatrical Films:
- Lupin III (1974)
- Lupin the 3rd (2014)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further your understanding of Lupin III’s cinematic journey, here are some frequently asked questions, answered in detail:
Q1: Which Lupin III movie is considered the best?
Many fans consider The Castle of Cagliostro to be the best Lupin III movie. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, it’s a masterpiece of animation and storytelling, blending action, adventure, and romance in a way that is both thrilling and heartwarming. Its positive portrayal of Lupin, as a gentleman thief with a strong moral compass, has resonated with audiences for decades.
Q2: Which Lupin III movie was the first one made?
The first Lupin III movie was Lupin the 3rd: The Secret of Mamo, released in 1978. It’s a psychedelic and ambitious film that explores themes of immortality and the nature of evil.
Q3: Is there a crossover movie between Lupin III and Detective Conan?
Yes, there is! The movie is titled Lupin the 3rd vs. Detective Conan: The Movie, released in 2013. It’s a highly entertaining crossover that brings together two of Japan’s most iconic detectives and thieves.
Q4: Are all the Lupin III movies canon?
The question of “canon” is complex within the Lupin III franchise. While there is a general continuity across the series, each movie and TV series often presents its own self-contained story with variations in character portrayals and relationships. Some fans consider all official productions to be part of a larger, loosely connected multiverse. In short, it depends on your personal interpretation. There isn’t a strict, overarching canon maintained across all Lupin III media.
Q5: Which Lupin III movie was directed by Hayao Miyazaki?
Only The Castle of Cagliostro was directed by Hayao Miyazaki. It stands out as a beloved classic in both Lupin III and Miyazaki’s filmographies.
Q6: Are there any Lupin III movies made using CGI animation?
Yes, Lupin the 3rd: The First (2019) is a fully CGI-animated film. It marks a significant departure from the traditional hand-drawn style of previous Lupin III movies.
Q7: Where can I watch Lupin III movies?
Availability varies depending on your region. Many Lupin III movies are available for streaming on platforms like Crunchyroll, HIDIVE, and Tubi. DVDs and Blu-rays can also be purchased online and in stores. Check your local streaming services and retailers for availability.
Q8: Are the live-action Lupin III movies any good?
Opinions on the live-action Lupin III movies are divided. Some fans appreciate them for their attempt to capture the spirit of the anime in a live-action setting, while others find them lacking compared to the animated counterparts. The 2014 Lupin the 3rd starring Shun Oguri is generally considered to be more faithful to the source material than the older 1974 film. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences.
Q9: What order should I watch the Lupin III movies in?
While there isn’t a strict chronological order to follow, watching them in release order is generally recommended to experience the evolution of the animation style and storytelling. However, most movies are self-contained stories and can be enjoyed independently.
Q10: Do I need to watch the Lupin III TV series before watching the movies?
No, you don’t need to watch the TV series before watching the movies. While the TV series provides a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationships, the movies are generally self-contained stories that can be enjoyed without prior knowledge.
Q11: Are there any more Lupin III movies planned for the future?
Yes! Lupin the 3rd: Goodbye Partner is slated to release in 2024. Furthermore, a film commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Lupin III anime adaptation is also in the works.
Q12: What makes Lupin III so appealing after all these years?
Lupin III’s enduring appeal lies in his blend of charisma, cunning, and morality. He’s a master thief who rarely uses violence and often targets corrupt individuals or organizations. His adventures are filled with thrilling heists, daring escapes, and humorous banter with his colorful companions, making him a perpetually entertaining character. The timeless themes of friendship, loyalty, and justice, combined with the stylish aesthetic and energetic action, contribute to Lupin III’s continued popularity across generations. His ability to adapt and evolve, whilst retaining his core charm, is what allows this gentleman thief to continue to capture the imaginations of audiences worldwide.