The Castle of Cagliostro [DVD] [1980]

As the famous animator, Hiyao Miyazaki's directorial debut, Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro is often cited as an inspiration to many of the animation industry's leading names, with homages to the film present in Disney and Pixar films throughout the decades, The Simpsons, and other television shows and films. No real prior knowledge of the Lupin III franchise and characters is necessary to enjoy this pulpy action adventure. The animation holds up very well, and there are multiple dubs to choose from as well as the original Japanese language audio. This restoration is excellent, with more accurate colors and the original Japanese opening and closing titles. Some beautiful character animation and cinematography is on display in this film. The special features are worth looking at for budding film makers and animators as well.

One of the early works of Hayao Miyazaki, this is one of my favorites of his works. There's a sense of adventure that Miyazaki is a master at invoking in his films. The movie itself is great, but what puts this release above and beyond in my opinion is the content beyond just the basic movie. Multiple versions of the English version, as well as new and restored versions of the subtitle translation. It makes it interesting to rewatch the movie. Seeing all of the difference a translation can make was really interesting to me. Throw on top of that original trailers, art, commentary, interviews, translation notes, and you get a lot of value. Overall I'd recommend it for the movie itself. This release just adds a lot of value above and beyond.

Like many, I watched Lupin III on [adult swim] when it aired and liked it but never went much farther with it. After all, it's a very long running series with a lot of movies, but when I heard that Miyazaki directed this one, I had to check it out, and boy am I glad I did! Castle of Cagliostro is a fantastic film. The Blu-ray includes multiple dubs and even Japanese, too. It looks fantastic and every little detail is captured perfectly. This was Miyazaki's first film he ever directed but you couldn't tell. It paces well, has good action, light romance, suspense and that Lupin flair where you wonder just how they're getting away with things. If you like anime, Lupin III, Miyazaki or Studio Ghibli and you haven't seen this film, you're doing yourself a huge disservice.

People who know about legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki know about this film, which put him on the map and gave him the leverage to establish Studio Ghibli later on. The film itself is a favorite of Steven Spielberg, and this new edition comes with several language and subtitle options to satisfy your needs. The adventures of dashing thief Lupin III center on the hamlet of Cagliostro, center of both a counterfeiting operation and a much-heralded secret treasure that he is itching to get his hands on. Swords swing and bullets fly in utter lunacy as Lupin tries to save the girl who stands to inherit the place, and defeat the evil Count who wants to marry her for the treasure. In short, it's fun for everyone as only Miyazaki (and Lupin's creator, Monkey Punch) can deliver.

If you are a fan of Hayao Miyazaki's work with Studio Ghibli, and you enjoy a fun adventure tale featuring a classic manga and anime character, then this is for you. The attention to detail in the animation, the complex and developed characters, and a gorgeous setting combine to provide a stunning spectacle. Think about it as an animated Indiana Jones, except Jones is a trendy thief and has an entourage of strange and skillful companions by his side. It's a gem of film, and most importantly, this movie provides an entertaining experience.

If you're a fan of Hiyao Miyazaki or animated films in general: then this is one that has to be in your collection. One of the first films that he directed it still holds up to this day as a fun nonstop action and drama movie. The characters are lovable, the art is stunning and the story while cheesy and over the top is memorable. If you've got the time and want to watch a brilliant animated feature then give this one a try.

You know the deal... It's The Castle of Cagliostro, the first feature length anime film directed by legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. Originally released in 1979, it's considered one of the most influential anime films of all time. The blu-ray looks fairly spectacular and it really helps bring out the detail in Miyazaki's work. You know you want it so you might as well just buy it already.

Short and sweet, this movie is excellent. You don't need to have a deep background of the main cast to get into this movie which is always a plus. The action, my stars and garters the action. Everything from the car chase to leaping over buildings and just so cool and breathtaking. Trust me this film is a must have for any fan of animation or Miyazaki or action movies in general.