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As with any collector's edition of an old movie, one must review both the movie itself and the quality of its release. However, I imagine that most people interested in buying this edition already love this film, so just scroll down to "But you probably already know all this" if you only want to know about picture quality/bonus features, etc.
To put it bluntly, Lupin the Third: The Castle of Cagliostro, is an excellent film. It's amazing to realize while watching this film that it was released in 1979, because it's a movie that hasn't aged a day. Sure, aesthetically, it looks like an old anime film, and it's relaxed pace sets it apart from modern action anime, but in terms of animation and scene planning, this movie easily holds up when viewed through a modern lens. The action is simply brilliant, structured and animated to perfection. And when I say perfection, I mean perfection. Despite being Hayao Miyazaki's first film, his talent is on full display. Everything, from the beautifully complex detail of the clock tower scene to the quiet wholesomeness of Lupin's interactions with Clarisse just looks great, breathing life into some of the most creative setpieces ever put to animation.
But you probably already know all this. Thankfully, this Blu-ray release does this film justice. The picture quality is great, being very well upgraded to modern quality. The lines are sharp and the colors are vibrant. The audio has been very well restored too, and yes the original Japanese audio is included, alongside no less than both of this film's past English dubs. Personally, I like to stick to the original Japanese, but I imagine that old school fans will appreciate the inclusion of the old dubs. Additionally, this release has both the original 1980 English subtitles created for the film's limited festival runs as well as a brand new set of subtitles which, in my opinion, is probably the best English translation we've gotten so far (no more of that "goat bills" nonsense).
Alongside this restoration, the bonus features are very solid. I love it when film ner–er, scholars record audio commentaries, and Reed Nelson's delightfully info-filled commentary track does not disappoint. This release also includes a hefty assortment of production material, including a large gallery of posters, key art, and the complete set of storyboards and concept art that Hayao Miyazaki created during post production. It's a fascinating insight into Miyazaki's creative process, and it's interesting to see how so much of the film really was his vision.
Rounding out the bonus feature selection is a set of five interviews, including with David Hayter (2000 English Lupin), Bob Bergen (1992 English Lupin), Yasuo Ohtsuka (director of animation), Kazuhide Tomonaga (one of many key animators), and Monkey Punch (creator of Lupin the Third). Hayter and Bergen's interviews are the only ones freshly conducted for this release, with the other three being much older. While none of these interviews are terrible, only Ohtsuka and Tomonaga really have much insight into the production process, with Hayter and Bergen's interviews being typically actor-focused while Monkey Punch's is complete fluff. Considering how much the influence and talent of Hayao Miyazaki hangs over the film, I'm a little disappointed that no interview with him was conducted for this release, though I understand that he's probably a very busy guy.
All in all, with a robust selection of bonus features, great video and audio, and a nice selection of viewing options, this is an excellent release of an excellent movie. I fully recommended to fans of Lupin the Third, Hayao Miyazaki, and anime films in general.
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Reviews with images
Great Anime 4K Blu-ray. Believe in the Thief all over again
The colors really pop and some one has finally but effort into the main menu.most other 4K Blu-rays they don’t even bother trying they just use the default. This is a must buy for lupin fans.I am glad they put the time into making a special menu for this movie. Also there is no regular Blu-ray only the 4K uhd Blu-ray and not digital code for the movie. All the special features are on the one disk which along with the movie. All Footage was shot on iPhone12 pro max 4K hdr Dolby vision camera.
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2015
Top reviews from other countries
lessthantod
Un indispensable pour les fan de MIYAZAKI
Reviewed in France on February 4, 2015
joseph badham
a refreshing change from robots, ninjas and demons
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 24, 2003
