GKIDS UNBOXED: "Lupin III: The First"

Now available on Digital Download, Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack & Limited Edition Steelbook!

In an all-new episode of GKIDS Unboxed, we dive into the treasure trove of bonus features in the Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack and limited edition Steelbook for Lupin III: The First!

One of the most historic and beloved franchises in anime, Lupin The 3rd is renowned for its thrilling chases, exotic locales, and lovable gang of bandits. Lupin III: The First marks the series’ first foray into 3DCG, keeping the classic Lupin spirit alive with a vivacious performance from the beloved English dub cast and a jazzy score from series veteran, Yuji Ohno. The result is a mind-blowing, globetrotting caper sure to steal the hearts of longtime fans and newcomers alike!

In Lupin III: The First, legendary gentleman thief, Lupin III, is determined to nab the one artifact his infamous grandfather could never obtain: the mysterious Bresson Diary. But when he gets caught in the act by a plucky young archaeologist named Laetitia, Lupin begins unraveling the Diary’s secrets and discovers a fiendish plot that could destroy the world.

Both the Blu-ray and DVD allow you to watch Lupin III: The First in either the original Japanese with English subtitles, or in the English dub featuring the fan-favorite voices of Tony Oliver as Lupin, Richard Epcar as Jigen, Lex Lang as Goemon, Michelle Ruff as Fujiko Mine, and Doug Erholtz as Zenigata. Rounding out the English cast are newcomers Laurie C. Hymes as Laetitia, David Brimmer as her grandfather, Lambert, and Paul Guyet as the dastardly and manipulative Gerard.

“Lupin III: The First” Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack

If you were a fan of the Red Jacket series as it aired on Adult Swim, the English dub for Lupin III: The First will definitely take you back to the good ol’ days. Whether you go sub or dub, both audio options are mastered in DTS-HD 5.1 surround sound, which will put you right in the passenger seat of Lupin and his crew’s wild ride. Subtitles include English, English SDH, Spanish, and French.

Special features include the film’s “Yellow Carpet premiere” in Japan, presented by director Takashi Yamazaki and the main Japanese voice cast. An animation breakdown video takes you step-by-step through the creation of several exciting sequences, from 2D storyboard all the way to fully rendered 3DCG. Check out the CG Model Gallery for a closer look at the models and environments used throughout the film. These peeks behind the scenes emphasize all of the care and detail spent on bringing Lupin and the gang to life in 3DCG while staying true to its roots.

On the Blu-ray is an exclusive interview with director Yamazaki, where he dives deeper into this approach to blend tried and true methods, like keyframe animation, with exciting new CG technology. Additional interviews include the Japanese voice cast reminiscing on the franchise’s history. If you’re more partial to the dub, you can check out the 50 minute English cast reunion to get the inside story of how Lupin The 3rd became a sensation in the US and why it continues to endure with today’s anime audience.

“Lupin III: The First” Limited Edition Steelbook

The limited edition Steelbook features an embossed metal case with art reminiscent of the original Japanese poster. Included is and exclusive booklet printed to look just like the Bresson Diary on the outside— but don’t worry, you won’t unleash any ancient wicked forces by opening it! Instead you’ll be delighted to find character bios and art, along with commentary from the crew on designing each of their distinctive looks. If you’re a Lupin superfan, or just looking to add a statement piece to your Blu-ray collection, this incredible Steelbook will turn your shelf into a showcase. Be sure to keep it away from prying eyes!

Excited to snag these rare finds? Dream of your next heist— *ahem*— legally sanctioned purchase in our unboxing below!