Before creating masterpieces like Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro, legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki directed his first feature film, The Castle of Cagliostro. This action-packed adventure follows the exploits of Lupin III, a master thief with a heart of gold, as he seeks to rescue a damsel in distress and uncover a hidden treasure.
Not only was I lucky enough to see The Castle of Cagliostro at Scotland Loves Anime on the big Cameo screen in Edinburgh, but I got to see it in 4k.
The Castle of Cagliostro visuals
Miyazaki’s artistry is fully displayed in The Castle of Cagliostro, with lush landscapes and meticulously detailed animation. The film opens with a thrilling car chase through the winding mountain roads leading to the titular castle. The animation captures the speed and danger of Lupin’s Fiat 500 as it careens around corners, with dust clouds billowing and backgrounds whizzing by. Who could possibly be immune to the sight of all that money?
Miyazaki’s love of intricate clockwork is evident in the elaborate mechanisms and hidden passages within the castle itself. Gearwheels whir, trapdoors swing open, and secret tunnels are revealed, creating a sense of wonder and adventure. The Castle, I think, feels like a Dungeons & Dragons adventure in the making or a reverse Scooby-Do where Lupin and fellow thieves wear masks, break in and terrorise the locals.
Miyazaki’s attention to detail extends to the environment. The idyllic countryside surrounding the castle is bathed in warm sunlight, with rolling hills, sparkling rivers, and quaint villages. In contrast, the castle’s interior is dark and imposing, with sunless corridors and cavernous chambers. Light and shadow create a sense of mystery and foreboding, perfectly complementing the film’s adventurous tone.
The character designs are distinctive and expressive. Lupin is charming and athletic, with his signature swagger and mischievous grin. Clarisse is delicate and graceful, while Count Cagliostro exudes an air of menace with his sharp features and piercing eyes. Even the supporting characters, like Jigen and Goemon, have memorable designs and unique personalities that shine through in their movements and expressions. It took me a while, and it happened before I sat down to watch the 4K version, but I’m finally used to the “pipecleaner style” used in the early Lupin films.
The action sequences are dynamic and fluid, showcasing Miyazaki’s skill in staging exciting and visually engaging scenes. The animation is always clear and impactful, from daring escapes to sword fights on rooftops. Whether it’s a chase through the castle’s burning dungeons or a climactic showdown in a clock tower, the visuals in The Castle of Cagliostro are a testament to Miyazaki’s mastery of animation.
This anime deserves the 4K upgrade.
The plot
The Castle of Cagliostro is an action-adventure film with a clever plot involving counterfeit money, a kidnapped princess, and hidden treasure. Miyazaki skillfully intertwines these elements, keeping viewers guessing. As the mystery unfolds, Lupin’s initial heist leads him to Cagliostro and the castle’s counterfeiting operation. The connection to Clarisse and the Cagliostro family’s legacy adds depth to the story.
One of the most clever aspects of the plot is how Miyazaki employs misdirection to keep the audience engaged. While Lupin initially appears to be motivated by the prospect of treasure, his true goal is to rescue Clarisse and expose Cagliostro’s criminal activities. This shift in focus adds emotional depth to the story and provides a satisfying resolution, emphasising heroism over personal gain. The film skillfully uses red herrings and unexpected twists to subvert audience expectations. When it seems that Lupin has the upper hand, Cagliostro reveals a hidden advantage, forcing Lupin to improvise and adapt his plans.
The strength of the plot in The Castle of Cagliostro lies in its ability to combine thrilling action with an intriguing mystery. The story is filled with surprises and clever deductions, keeping viewers engaged while offering a complex narrative. Miyazaki’s masterful storytelling makes the film a visual delight and a thought-provoking adventure that rewards those who pay careful attention.
Overall
Hayao Miyazaki‘s The Castle of Cagliostro is a delightful animated adventure highlighting the director’s immense talent. The film is a visual feast featuring stunning landscapes, detailed animation, and memorable character designs.
The plot is skillfully crafted, balancing thrilling action sequences with an engaging mystery that involves counterfeit money, an (effectively) kidnapped princess, and a hidden treasure. Miyazaki expertly employs misdirection and surprising twists to keep viewers guessing until the very end. While Lupin initially appears motivated by the treasure, his heroic nature emerges as he prioritises rescuing Clarisse and exposing Cagliostro’s crimes.
The Castle of Cagliostro is a highly entertaining and beautifully animated film that rightfully holds its status as a classic. It showcases Miyazaki’s exceptional talent in storytelling and animation, making it a must-see for fans of both adventure and animation.
🍻 Sponsor: Cheers, Dusk Wave Arts and Barheim, the beer tower defence game, for enabling our Scotland Loves Anime trip.
Are you at SLA 2024? Say hi in the comments, Discord or grab one of us at the Cameo! What did you make of Lupin?
