Forgettable story aside, the film is a visual treat, full of joy and zaniness.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Jun 2, 2021

A most enjoyable adventure. [Full review in Spanish]

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/5 | Jan 28, 2021

Since Monkey Punch passed away in 2019 (he was 81), a few months before the film's premiere, the project is dedicated to him. It's a fine tribute.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/4 | Jan 16, 2021

As much as the film feels like a loving tribute to the esteemed director, it doesn't exist in Cagliostro's shadow; rather, it makes for a great companion piece.

Full Review | Jan 15, 2021

Unspooling like a mashing of James Bond and Indiana Jones comes the high-spirited, high-flying hijinks of Lupin III, the animated star of a long-standing Japanese cartoon franchise...the story moves at a great clip and the digital animation is superb.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Jan 13, 2021

Newcomers and hardcore fans alike will enjoy the mix of humor and adventure that fills every corner of the film.

Full Review | Jan 12, 2021

Kids and adults alike will enjoy Lupin III: The First.

Full Review | Original Score: 7/10 | Jan 8, 2021

Though Monkey Punch passed away in 2019, unable to see the final version of Lupin III: The First, he'd no doubt be proud of the finished product as it hits all the hallmarks of a Lupin III escapade while being accessible for an entirely new audience.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/5 | Dec 29, 2020

It is shockingly hard to find a new movie that's interested in an old-fashioned adventure... Thankfully, Lupin III: The First is exactly that.

Full Review | Dec 21, 2020

You don't need to know anything about the long history of the character and his rogues to enjoy; it's just a fun, fast, Nazi-punching caper to save the world.

Full Review | Original Score: 4.5/5 | Dec 14, 2020

Its two problems are that it is very talky and it gets out of control in some ways because the special effects are too easy.

Full Review | Dec 12, 2020

Lupin III: The First is a sleek, loose, vibrant, and almost lifelike take on the character that is unbelievably entertaining from start to finish.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Dec 11, 2020

Caper is fun but has guns, Nazis, and some stereotypes.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Dec 2, 2020

For Lupin III fans, Yamazaki's Lupin III: The First is a well-animated and fun caper featuring a host of familiar characters who are looking better than they ever have.

Full Review | Nov 5, 2020

The story is straightforward, as can be expected from a family-friendly caper, and most of the turns are predictable, but it doesn't make the movie any less fun.

Full Review | Oct 24, 2020

It's an absolute blast and a faithful iteration on the style and scope of these characters in a medium that allows their zany hijinks to dazzle brighter than ever.

Full Review | Oct 22, 2020

If I was initially worried about how well Lupin III would translate to 3DCG, these (probably underpaid) animators blew my mind and put my fears to rest. All the character designs, backgrounds, and action moved as smooth as silk.

Full Review | Oct 19, 2020

...Lupin remains as graceful, charming, and boundless as ever. Lupin III: The First, is a great entry point for those curious about the character because it blends old and new so effectively...

Full Review | Oct 16, 2020

This lavish, technically polished animated caper featuring the beloved gentleman thief of Japanese manga delivers high-octane entertainment but plays safe with the canon.

Full Review | Jul 6, 2020

The versions of Lupin and his familiar friends and enemies in the new CG movie live up to the high expectations set by decades of over-the-top animated adventures.

Full Review | Jun 22, 2020