Engaging! Like watching a magician!
The series, which dropped on January 8, 2021 on Netflix is a fresh take on the novels by Maurice LeBlanc of Arsene Lupin, a gentleman thief and master of disguise. The character was created in 1905 and the series, is not a retelling of the stories but rather introduces a new character Assane Diop (Omar Sy) who draws inspiration from the Lupin character to avenge his father who was wrongfully accused of a theft 25 years ago.
Described as the first great show of 2021. The series draws its audiences through its charismatic lead, Omar Sy who is well and able to carry the series on his very broad shoulders. It’s fun watching Assane pull off his heists and plans, it’s like you never know what he’s planning to do next. You are also easily drawn into his life, and can’t help but cheer for him, even if technically he is on the wrong side of the law.
Your face looks familiar
You may not realize it but Omar Sy has actually been around, playing roles in blockbuster movies like X-Men: Days of Future Past, Transformers: The Last Knight, Jurassic World and most recently The Call of the Wild. It’s nice to see him land a lead role in a Netflix series – which will surely make him familiar to more viewers.
But who just is Arsene Lupin?
Among Filipinos when we hear the name Lupin we immediately think of Lupin III- the 1967 anime character based on the manga series written and illustrated by Monkey Punch. The success of Lupin III has spawned a media franchise, from manga, a TV series, animated movies, live action movies, OVAs, video games and yes, even musicals. While people may think they are the same character, Lupin III is the grandson of Arsene Lupin of the Maurice LeBlanc books.
Since we are already discussing the influence of Arsene Lupin in anime, I think it’s worth mentioning that Kaitou Kid from the Detective Conan series is also influenced from Arsene Lupin, with his signature top hat, cape and monocle.
A Lupin for modern times
A Sengalese immigrant, Assane Diop, certainly represents a more modern Lupin, also reflecting a modern-day France. He also uses the internet, computers and other high-tech techniques in his exploits. But more than just stealing jewelry and tricking the police, the series also looks at Assane’s personal life, his drive to avenge and redeem his father, the complicated relationship with his son Raoul and the mother of Raoul, Claire.
My only qualm is that at 6’3 Omar Sy stands out in a crowd and that may not be an ideal quality for a gentleman thief, but that’s just me.
A fun ‘Part 1’ is an easy watch with just five episodes at around 45 minutes each. Don’t worry a ‘Part 2’ is already confirmed and should be out in a few months. I really can’t wait since the first part ended in such a cliffhanger.