Lupin (aka Rupan) III5xvhsdvddub,sub
Movies
The Gold Of Babylon
lupin3A witty, wacky, literate film full of invention and energy. The story opens in the New York where Monkey Punch's lovable rogue and his gang are pursued by the Mafia, the police and the elderly lush Rosetta, who chants a proverb about the Babylon legend between protestations of passion for Lupin. The trail leads from Madison Square Gardens, scene of possibly the most hilarious bike chase ever filmed, to the Middle East, and back again to New York, pastiching Indiana Jones, Erich Von Daniken, Mafioso epics and Tom and Jerry along the way. While Lupin curses himself for what might have been, Fujiko, ever practical, is more concerned with keeping as much of the gold as possible. Fantasy for grown-ups.
The Castle of Cagliostro
Whether it's robbing casinos in Monte Carlo or stealing the hearts of beautiful women, nobody does it better than Wolf (alias Lupin lll) - gentleman, thief, ladies man and master of disguise. He's a modern-day Robin Hood with more gadgets than James Bond, and no fortune, no matter how well guarded, is safe... When their latest carload of stolen cash turns out to be counterfeit, Wolf and his sharp-shooting sidekick Jingen trace the forgers to the tiny country of Cagliostro, and the forbidding castle of Count Cagliostro himself. Behind the stone walls and the laser defenses, the Count has imprisoned the beautiful princess Clarisse: the girl who holds the secret to the legendary hidden treasure. With the help of lovely gun-toting Fujiko and the unstoppable samurai Goemon, Wolf decides to go after the money, the girl, and the bad guy after all, apart from the massed ranks of Interpol a horde of razor-armed Ninja and an international conspiracy or two, what could possibly stop him?
The Fuma Conspiracy
The tranquility of a traditional Japanese wedding is shattered when the bride is kidnapped by evil Ninja! Their ransom demand is simple: the key to the hidden treasure! Unfortunately for the Ninja of the Fuma Clan, the groom is a master swordsman named Goemon, and the groom's best friend is... Lupan III: Master Thief. Make an extra bowl of popcorn and get ready for a non-stop roller coaster adventure around, over, through and under Japan, as Lupan and Co. go after the girl and the gold, while trying to stay one step ahead of the nefarious Ninja and two steps ahead of the relentless Inspector Zenigata or Interpol!
The Mystery of Mamo
A madcap adventure which expands the globe from the Carpathian Mountains of Transylvania to the land of the pharaohs... A deadly mystery which races from the sidewalks of Paris to the shores of a tropical paradise. Lupin succeeds in pulling off a series of seemingly impossible capers in order to score "big time" with Fujiko, his beautiful arch-rival. Curiously, all of the capers involve some arcane object associated with eternal life. But there is more to Lupin's schemes than a simple one-night stand. His efforts result in a date with destiny as he faces the mysterious Mamo - his most deadly opponent.
Tales of the Wolf
"Albatross, Wings of Death"
High-flying Adventure and First Class Fun Aboard a Mammoth Airship Outfitted with a Nuclear Warhead! From Tokyo Movie Shinsha's classic television series "LUPIN III" - based on the popular comic strip by Monkey Punch - which follows the exploits of the world's greatest cat burglar - this exceptional anime by director Hayao Miyazaki is one of the finest examples of the golden age of Japanese television animation. In this episode, "ALBATROSS: WINGS OF DEATH". originally broadcast in 1980, Wolf (Lupin III) learns that the world's most eccentric entrepreneur, Dr. Lonebach, has a nuclear device and plans to blackmail the world from his one-plane "air force". a retro-fitted Dornier - a 1929 luxury airship - culled from his personal airplane museum. What makes matters worse is that Fujlko Mine - Wolf's on-again-off-again girl-friend/partner - has been kidnapped by this wealthy madman. It is up to Wolf, and his capable sidekicks, to knock the wind out of this deadly terrorist's sails and put a stop to this potentially fatal fiasco. Wolf's only problem is finding an antique plane that doesn't fall apart before he can get close enough for a dogfight. A true animated classic with a knowing wink to aviation enthusiasts.
"Aloha, Lupin"
A Spectacular Sendoff for the World's Most Popular Thief! A powerful flying robot, stolen from a top secret Japanese military arsenal, is committing robberies all over Tokyo and, thanks to a timely 'public service an. nouncement' by Lupin III alias The Wolf- all indications point to this lovable rogue as the most likely suspect. Inspector Zenigata vows to finally capture Lupin and put an end to his nefarious career. But as the plot winds toward an inevitable showdown. fans will recognize that both thief and detective are acting strangely out of character. A cute and daring robot jockey. a wild sky ride and some dynamic fireworks help to make this one of the most spectacular pieces of TV animation ever filmed. Originally broadcast as the final episode of the second LUPIN III TV Series (1977-1980), Tokyo Movie Shinsha, the producing studio, gave Japan's top theatrical animation director Hayao Miyazaki - carte blanche in order to let the series go out with a bang. The result is the essence of the wit and cleverness of LUPIN III distilled Into one superb effort.
The Secret of Twilight Gemini
Legend has it that the Twilight diamond is the key to a Moroccan treasure of immeasurable value. So when the international thief Lupin is given the Twilight in an act of faith, it's off to Morocco! But what started out as a simple in and out job turns into chaos the moment Lupin steps off the train! Fighting factions, masked assassins, secret undergroud sects, a whip-yielding psychopath, corrupt cops, and the always determined Inspector Zenigata... they're all after Lupin. And they won't stop until he's caught or killed. Join Lupin, Fujiko, and Goemon in another rousing adventure where nothing is what it seems to be... and treasure is always just around the corner.
Voyage to Danger
Cornered in a building, Lupin is given the shock of a lifetime; Zenigata has been pulled off the Lupin case permanently. A rather drunken Zenigata informs Lupin of the news personally and reveals that his new assignment is to track down a group of illegal arms dealers known as "Shot Shell". Lupin decides to steal Shot Shell's profits and is surprised to have Zenigata join forces with him.
ICPO has given a vicious ex-mercenary named Keith one mission ? bring Lupin in dead or alive. With danger lurking in every corner of the map, Lupin decides to use a nuclear submarine as bait for his plans. Can Lupin find Shot Shell and relieve them of their financial burden before Keith relieves Lupin of his life? And what secret past does Karen, a beautiful Russian scientist, and Jigen share?
Dragon of Doom
Hong Kong crime lord Chin Chin Chu wants to hire Lupin, Fujiko, and Jigen to recover a gold dragon statue from the wreckage of the Titanic. Lupin is intrigued as it is the same statue that his grandfather attempted to steal right before the Titanic sank. However, Lupin refuses to work with Chu and vows to retrieve it and his family pride on his own.
With help from Kikyo, a childhood friend, Goemon also seeks to maintain his family's honor by ensuring no one, even Lupin, gains the statue. Who will be able to hang onto the statue and learn its secrets?
Pursuit of Harimao's Treasures
Three statues hold the key to finding the eight billion dollar treasure of Harimao. Having acquired one of the statues, Lupin finds himself an unlikely ally of retired British agent Lord Archer and his granddaughter Diana. Only Archer knows where to find the remaining figure, but the Neo-Himmel group seeks the treasure to fund their own plans. Who will claim the riches of Harimao?!
Dead or Alive
The latest target for Lupin is the legendary treasure of the kingdom of Zufu. This treasure lies on the mysterious "Drifting Island", and Lupin drags his gang to investigate. Upon reaching a mysterious door, the island activates an impressive defense system, and Lupin manages to escape by the seat of his pants.
It is up to Lupin to find the key to unlock the door to the treasure. To do this, he must avoid the psychotic leader of Zufu, bounty hunters, secret police, and the indomitable Zenigata. Can Lupin unlock the secrets of the island before he ends up as a $1,000,000 trophy?!
Farewell to Nostradamus
A simple diamond heist leads Lupin into the machinations of a bizarre cult. The cult i s based around the prophecies of Nostradamus, and they kidnap Julia, the daughter of Douglas, a wealthy American who is seeking the presidency, along with Lupin's diamond. At stake is the lost book of prophecy Douglas holds in the vault at the top of his skyscraper.
Can Lupin rescue Julia, find a way into the vault, and discover the connection between the cult and the kidnapping? And what about his diamond?!
Island of Assassins
Its Lupin's greatest challenge yet as he goes toe to toe with the mysterious and deadly inhabitants of an island that doesn't exist on any map ? the Island of Assassins.
The "Tarantulas" are the most fearsome gang of assassins on the face of the planet. But, in order to solve a dark mystery from his past, Lupin must lower himself into the heart of the spider's lair! Can Lupin fight an assassin army, steal their fabled cache of gold, find a cure for an "incurable" poison, and get the girl, all at the same time? One thing is certain, with Jigen, Goemon, and Fujiko along for the ride; it's going to be nonstop adventure as the gang tries to escape the Island of Assassins!
Crisis in Tokyo
When a strange set of photographic plates makes its way into the hands of a famous art dealer in Tokyo, it?s up to Lupin to steal them. But this time, it seems that he may have to do it alone. Or will he? Goemon and Fujiko team up and put a deal on the table that Lupin may be forced to take.
Following Lupin every step of the way is Inspector Zenigata. He is so focused on his target that he tends to forget his department?s deal to allow a journalist named Maria to tag along with him. However, there may be more to her and the photographic plates than anyone knows? or even begin to fathom.
The Columbus Files
Fujiko and Lupin are enjoying a romantic dinner together; as usual, Lupin's appetites include getting a taste of Fujiko's latest plan. Fujiko has uncovered the "Columbus Files" that tell of an incredible treasure known appropriately as the "Columbus Egg". Before Lupin can learn more, they are attacked by a helicopter squadron led by Nazaroff. Lupin and Fujiko end up hanging onto the edge of a cliff, but Fujiko falls to earth after a gunshot severs the rope attaching her to Lupin.
A young woman named Rosaria is handing over a piece of sunken treasure to a buyer. She returns home to find an uninvited guest... Fujiko! However, Fujiko has amnesia and is haunted by frightening images of being chased by Nazaroff's men and of the contents of the Columbus Files. Can Lupin restore Fujiko's memories to find the Columbus Egg as well as for her own sake? And why is Rosaria determined to find the Egg for herself?
Missed by a Dollar
Lupin has disguised himself and is bidding on a ring up for auction in New York City. The ring holds the secret location of a legendary broach; the broach is said to bring good fortune to whoever wears it and has been in the possession of Napoleon, Lenin, and Hitler. When a bidder outbids him by one dollar, he decides to take the more traditional route and steal it. However, a heavily armed group of men relieve him of his prize. They work for Cynthia, the head of Bank of World.
Lupin gathers the troops to try to steal the ring back from the heavily protected headquarters. He succeeds in stealing it once again but appears to be fatally shot as they make their getaway. If Lupin is dead, who will stop Cynthia from obtaining the broach!?
TV Series
Volume 1
The World's Most Wanted
As the world's most wanted thief, Lupin travels the globe seeking exotic treasure, lovely ladies and good times. Interpol Inspector Zenigata, chases him through every country, vowing to capture Lupin and his cohorts: Jigen, the master marksman and Goemon, a samurai extraordinaire.
Yet, Zenigata's traps never seem to work out in his favor... Will Lupin's sexy and mysterious rival Fujiko help Lupin in his next heist ... or lead him into Zenigata's next ambush?
Volume 2
Love Heist
The adventures get wilder, the scenery more exotic and the disguises more Zenigata-like! Lupin and pals criss-cross the globe as they outwit a psychotic horse-racer, help a master escape artist fulfill his legacy and spend Christmas with a priceless bottle of wine! And just about everyone gets to impersonate Zenigata!
Volume 3
Family Jewels
Lupin and his pals run afoul of fake gems, cursed jewels and rare stones in their latest capers! Fujiko nearly gets married, zombies come out to play and just for a switch, someone's impersonating Lupin! From San Francisco to Jamaica, Inspector Zenigata is determined to capture Lupin, whether he committed the crimes or not!
Volume 4
Thieves' Paradise
Lupin is such a nice guy, but everywhere he goes, he runs into trouble! After "appropriating" a birthday present for Fujiko, helping Goemon avenge his slain mentor, and accepting a challenge from the world's leading safe manufacturer, Lupin, Jigen and the rest end up on in a paradise filled with beautiful women - who are all out to kill Lupin!
Volume 5
Mission: Irresistible
History always repeats itself - especially when the Lupin legacy of spy antics and madcap adventure abound! Former enemies, scheming relatives and stolen Nazi plans haunt Lupin and the gang through SIX uncut adventures!
Enjoy the continuing saga of Lupin, Fujiko, Goemon and Jigen, as they defy an escape-proof prison, compete in an International Robbery Championship, fend off Zenigata and try to outwit... a little girl??? A chronicle of Lupin tales no historian can be without!
Volume 6
Lupin the Target
While Lupin and his gang aim to steal money from every bank in Paris, a beautiful detective vows to take revenge on Lupin for her grandfather. Also, Lupin challenges to steal the secret of a treasure hidden on the back of beautiful Scandinavian twin sisters which appear only during certain times of the midnight sun.
Volume 7
Royal Scramble
A stolen crown is auctioned off in the black market. Jigen infiltrates the seller, Goemon infiltrates the buyer, and Lupin poses as a jewelry appraiser. When Zenigata joins Lupin, the situation turns into a four-way scramble, and Fujiko makes it even more confusing! Then Lupin finds a beautiful woman in an excavated casket who is not dead, but deadly! Lupin is victimized by her and becomes a vampire. Can Lupin survive even more adventures!?
Volume 8
Sweet Betrayals
Fujiko is hired by the ICPO to capture Lupin in exchange for offsetting all her criminal records. Will Fujiko's betrayal pay off? And who tricks whom!? And later, Lupin and the gang are in search of valuable diamonds, but they are hidden in the most unexpected of places and are transported to a stronghold of a mafia boss. Searching for a fast efficient way to transport the gems, Lupin comes up with an idea so crazy... it might work!
Volume 9
Scent of Murder
Lupin enjoys a free vacation to Hong Kong, but the trip becomes a fierce scramble to locate the archaeologically famous Peking Man's bones! Hijacking an armored truck is a great idea until Lupin finds that he has also stolen a gold lion statue with a special bonus: Zenigata!
Volume 10
Enchanted Lupin
Lupin's next target is the Kentucky Derby's prize money at the Metropolitan Bank. It sounds like an easy project, with one exception - he has to get past its perfect alarm system. For his next little job, Lupin develops an intimate relationship with a wealthy widow to get his hands on her jewels... but forgets the fact that every beautiful woman has a poisonous thorn.
And then, an ordinary scheme turns out to be the most extraordinary incident when Lupin's old girlfriend - who had supposedly died years ago - turns up! In order to uncover what really happened back then, he investigates a secret research lab and is trapped by the ex-Nazi scientist who uses it to turn the dead into zombies.
Finally, a 3-way fight erupts when Lupin, Fujiko and the cat-like Emmanuelle Poirot all travel to Thailand to find the scripture of immortality. Will Lupin be able to escape this kitty's deadly claws?
Volume 11
From Moscow With Love
Suave. Debonair. Prankster. Lupin the 3rd is the world's most wanted thief! Once he eyes a target, whether a treasure or a beautiful lady, he gets it no matter what obstacles lie ahead of him.
He is chased by Inspector Zenigata of Interpol, who has devoted his life in capturing Lupin. With his sidekicks, Jigen, the master marksman and Goemon, the philosopher and swordsman, Lupin is invincible. Zenigata's traps never seem to work out in his favor. Will Lupin's sexy and mysterious rival Fujiko help Lupin in his next heist or lead him into Zenigata's next ambush and steal what Lupin has stolen?
Volume 12
The Flying Sword
In this volume, the always cool and sophisticated Lupin overcomes numerous perils along with his associates Fujiko, Goemon and Jigen. Lupin and his gang are robbed, beaten, jailed and entrapped by villains, officials... even seemingly benevolent billionaires!
At each twist and turn they rely on Lupin's resilience and strategy to stay alive, but this time around Lupin's invincibility is constantly tested. With this kind of pressure, how long can Lupin keep his cool and stay alive?
Volume 13
All's Fair in Love and Thievery
This explosive volume contains everything imaginable from a master thief like Lupin. He overcomes a face-off with both a deadly assassin and a criminal mastermind who transforms himself into a Lupin look-a-like. Later, Lupin and the gang are slipped a knockout drug and wake up finding themselves shrunk to the size of their thumbs and surrounded by murderers.
On top of everything else, Zenigata and a beautiful widow start having feelings for each other while a sophisticated bomb planted in her body slowly counts down to her demise.
Volume 14
For Larva or Money
Lupin and the gang travel around the world stealing the finest treasures. Cracking the unbreakable safe of "supernational" bank is just for starters, then the crew raise the Tokugawa Era's golden cannon from the deep sea by Japan.
In Los Angeles, the talented thieves chase the sacred sapphire called the "Eyes of Solomon." Then Lupin competes with the powerful American and Soviet Union teams in the World Robbery Olympics. Finally, the trio battle a human chameleon to steal back a diamond in South Africa.
Volume 15
Thievin' Ain't Easy
Master thief Lupin sets his sights on the jewelry collection of a millionaire playboy whose brides don't seem to be able to survive the wedding. Then, in a slight turn of events, Lupin takes time out of his busy schedule to rescue a political leader from a nation torn by civil war.
But then it's right back to the daily grind when Lupin must battle a possessed Goemon over a huge stolen emerald. And then, industrious man that he is, Lupin tries to see if he can take a shortcut towards getting what he wants - like making a robot that can manufacture diamonds! Finally, an orchestra conductor hypnotizes Fujiko and a packed audience into killing Lupin! Can he defend himself armed only with a single serving spoon?
Details
Two of the main characters are fictional descendants of actual historical figures. Inspector Zenigata is the seventh-generation descendant of the famous Edo-Period detective, Zenigata Heji, and Ishikawa Goemon is the thirteenth-generation descendant of the notorious samurai-turned-bandit Ishikawa Goemon, who, when caught, was boiled in oil for his crimes.
Commentary
Think of the "Pink Panther" movies and you'll have some vague idea of what these titles are like. They are full of action, humor, and great storytelling. "Castle Of Cagliostro" is my favorite among these followed closely by both "Tales Of The Wolf".
I used to have the subtitled VHS versions of Gold of Babylon and Fuma Conspiracy and the dubbed VHS versions of Castle of Cagliostro, Mystery of Mamo and Tales of the Wolf. I actually have two DVD versions of Castle of Cagliostro as well as a VHS to DVD transfer of the Streamline dub of Castle of Cagliostro. I have DVDs of several Lupin movies and one volume of the Lupin TV series.
Individual Ratings:
The Castle of Cagliostro
The Gold Of Babylon
The Fuma Conspiracy
Tales of the Wolf
The Mystery of Mamo
The Secret of Twilight Gemini