Monkey Punch's hit "Lupin the Third" has finally been adapted into a live-action film. Anticipation is high, as this anime has a loyal following as a national favorite.
The film is directed by Ryuhei Kitamura, known for "Azumi" and "Godzilla: Final Wars." As you'd expect from a director with a Hollywood background, the visuals are nothing short of spectacular. Filmed across the ocean in Thailand, the film is packed with all the elements you'd expect from an action movie, including car chases and explosions.
It's a shame the familiar melodies aren't featured, but Tomoyasu Hotei's edgy theme plays at key points, adding to the excitement.
Attention to detail is evident, and at the request of the cast, Lupin's costumes in the party scene and Jigen's, whose skirts flutter during gunplay, were designed with the cooperation of Dior Homme. This time's treasure, "Crimson Heart of Cleopatra," was also commissioned to be crafted by jeweler Kuwayama. Following meticulous historical research, the resulting ancient Egyptian-style necklace was crafted using lapis lazuli and turquoise. Its retail value would be nearly 50 million yen if it were actually made. Other familiar items featured include Lupin's beloved yellow Fiat and his Walther P38 pistol. Given the popularity of the character, the casting announcement sparked a storm of mixed reactions. While the cast must have been under immense pressure, Shun Oguri, who plays Lupin III, delivered witty, slick dialogue and brilliant action just like in the anime. His slim figure, achieved after losing 8kg, is also noteworthy. Meisa Kuroki portrays the hard-boiled, melancholic Fujiko Mine, more faithful to the original manga than to the anime. Of course, you can rest assured that you'll see plenty of sexy scenes, including bathing scenes and leather suits. Tamayama Tetsuji as Daisuke Jigen, Ayano Go as Ishikawa Goemon, and Asano Tadanobu as Inspector Zenigata also give excellent performances. This film is a feast for the eyes, with beautiful men and women, including Asian stars, performing spectacular action scenes. The cast is younger than expected and somewhat different from the traditional image, but after watching the film, I felt that this was acceptable. With the voice actors for the anime version being completely replaced in 2011, Lupin the Third has revamped its image, perhaps entering a new phase. And don't miss the unexpected cameo appearance in the airplane scene. The film opens at Toho Cinemas Nichigeki and other Toho theaters nationwide on August 30th.