Lupin III: The First is a 2019 Japanese computer-animated heist comedy film based on the Lupin the Third franchise created by Monkey Punch, to whom the film is dedicated. It is the first 3DCG installment in the franchise and features a stunning animation style that brings the characters to life. The film follows gentleman thief Arsène Lupin III and his crew as they travel to Paris and Brazil to find the secrets of the Bresson Diary, a treasure that even Lupin’s grandfather Arsène Lupin failed to catch. Along the way, they encounter a mysterious woman named Laetitia, who holds the key to the diary, and a Nazi treasure-hunter group led by Lambert and Geralt, who are also after the diary and its hidden fortune.

The film is directed and written by Takashi Yamazaki, who also worked on other 3DCG films such as Dragon Quest: Your Story and Stand by Me Doraemon. The film features an impressive voice cast, including Kanichi Kurita as Lupin III, Kiyoshi Kobayashi as gunman Daisuke Jigen, Daisuke Namikawa as samurai Goemon Ishikawa XIII, Miyuki Sawashiro as Fujiko Mine, and Kōichi Yamadera as Interpol detective Zenigata . The film also stars Suzu Hirose as Laetitia, Kōtarō Yoshida as Lambert, and Tatsuya Fujiwara as Geralt. The film’s music is composed by Yuji Ohno, who has been working on the Lupin III series since 1977.

Lupin III: The First is a thrilling adventure that pays homage to the classic Lupin III anime film Castle of Cagliostro (1979), directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The film has a similar plot structure, with Lupin and his crew trying to solve a mystery involving a hidden treasure and a mysterious girl, while being pursued by enemies and allies alike. The film also references other elements from the Lupin III franchise, such as Lupin’s iconic Fiat 500 car, his signature red jacket, and his love for Fujiko. The film is full of action, humor, and charm that fans of the series will enjoy.

Lupin III: The First was released in Japan on December 6, 2019, distributed by Toho. It was one of the selections for Annecy International Animated Film Festival and the 43rd Japan Academy Film Prize. It received critical acclaim from critics and audiences alike, who praised its plot, vocal performances, faithfulness to the source material, and especially its animation. Many felt that the series transitioned well into CGI, praising the level of detail and fluidity . The film grossed ¥1.16 billion ($11 million) at the Japanese box office. The film was later released worldwide in 2020 by GKIDS in North America and Eurozoom in France .

If you are looking for a fun and exciting movie to watch with your friends or family, Lupin III: The First is a great choice. You will be entertained by the exploits of Lupin and his crew as they try to outsmart their enemies and uncover the secrets of the Bresson Diary. You will also be amazed by the stunning animation that brings the characters and settings to life. Whether you are a fan of the Lupin III franchise or not, you will find something to enjoy in this film. So don’t miss this opportunity to watch Lupin III: The First on Prime Video today!