Lupin the 3rd the Movie: The Secret of Mamo (1978)
Review by Dindrane
Film:
DVD:

Based Upon the Manga by Monkey Punch
Screenplay by Atsushi Yamatoya and Soji Yoshikawa
Directed by Soji Yoshikawa and Yasuo Otsuka
Character Design by Yuzo Aoki

Features:

• Reversible cover
• 12-page booklet
• Concept art
• Original "Coroner's Report"
• Digitalized original movie program

Dindrane's Anime Warnings:

• Theft glorified
• Wicked, naughty Fujiko
• Poor, dear Zenigata made to look very silly

Released by: Geneon Entertainment/Pioneer
Region: 1
Rating: 16+
Anamorphic: Yes

My Advice: At least rent it

The Secret of Mamo is the feature film debut of the beloved, most-wanted thief, Lupin, and his merry men. But Lupin is dead! Or is he? Despite a report from a coroner, Inspector Zenigata is understandably dubious and vows to discover the truth--that Lupin is not only alive, but up to his old larcenous tricks as well. Lupin, Goemon, and Jigen are together as always and en route to Egypt, where they hope to pilfer a special artifact, the Philosopher's Stone. Fujiko, of course, is not keen to be left behind, and has her own plans--eternal youth and beauty promised to her by the odd mad scientist known as Mamo. But when Fujiko double-crosses Lupin (again), the case cracks wide open and leads to 10,000-year-old secrets, plans for destroying the world, and more.

Not everyone is a fan of Yukio ABe's art or Aoki's character design, but the show still looks incredible for its age. Given that the original film stock is probably as old or older than many an otaku, the new digital version is clean, crisp, and a pleasure to view. The engineers did an excellent job with the remastering and deserve kudos. The sound is also very good; sound effects are particularly well-done here. Both language casts are good, but the Japanese cast is perhaps more used to the characters and bringing these wild personalities to life. The Japanese track is mono, but given the retro feel of the show, this is not much of an issue.

The extras are nice and fitting to the feel of the show. The original movie program has some very nice images, and the translation is kindly provided in the booklet that comes inside the DVD case. The Coroner's Report is my personal favorite; it's just such a clever and thoughtful addition. It provides the original opening sequence as the confirmation of Lupin's death is typed across the screen in kanji with soft English subtitles. Why this was not placed into the film itself is a mystery. We also get a nice selection of concept art that will please fans of animation and art.

If you're a fan of Lupin, then you'll want to see this one and own it. If you're new to the franchise, then this is as good a place to start as any. It may not be the best Lupin story, but it's still rather entertaining and well-produced. If you can get into the presentation and art used for this release--much like that of the original manga--then you'll enjoy this as a rollicking, whimsical ride; just don't get hung up expecting an aesthetic like that of Last Exile, Ceres, or other contemporary anime.