As anime fans, we’re all basking in Hayao Miyazaki’s glory and wonders. His works have shaped the Japanese industry as a whole. There aren’t many artists and visionaries whose films instill a sense of longing and awe the way his works do.

From Spirited Away to Princess Mononoke, Miyazaki has created timeless masterpieces that remain etched into fans’ memories. Some even went so far as to win accolades, including Oscars. Yet, there is a movie so remarkable that it remains shrouded as an underrated gem.

Interestingly, this movie was treated as contraband after its release outside Japan. This is a one-of-a-kind movie that isn’t produced by Studio Ghibli, which makes it even better. But what’s more, it’s one of the showpieces, often slept on, and here’s why.

The non-studio Ghibli movie that got the “contraband” treatment

At this point, Studio Ghibli isn’t just a word but an emotion that carries aspirations and dreams. Their craftsmanship and quality are reflected in their works spanning decades, be it Kiki’s Delivery Service or Nausicaa: Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind.

Why? Well, it’s because the studio has range and versatility. Yes, they don’t merely focus on fantasy and adventure, but on different genres. There’s Ocean Waves, often praised for its slice-of-life themes. Then, we have Grave of the Fireflies, which depicts a jarring and haunting war narrative.

Lupin in a still from Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro | Credit: Toho

However, there is a non-Ghibli movie so well-done and well-put that it deserves appreciation, Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro. It is the only non-Studio-Ghibli movie produced by Hayao Miyazaki. The 1979 film also marked his directorial debut.

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Contrary to popular belief, its run wasn’t as smooth and slick as some would expect. Its release was given contraband treatment for many reasons. Well, first of all, Lupin’s name itself is derived from French writer Maurice LeBlanc’s character Arsene Lupin.

The copyright laws were pretty tight, and this would mean a decade-long legal battle. But Miyazaki wasn’t the one to bow down in any case. The dubs often refer to the main character’s name as “Wolf” to avoid copyright infringement. But that is not all there is to it.

In 1991, the film was finally released in America after several alterations. Currently, the movie has an IMDb rating of 7.6/10. In all seriousness, they dodged a bullet with this one. But overall, the movie is a true underappreciated and underrated gem by the infamous Ghibli director.

The Castle of Cagliostro is Hayao Miyazaki’s underrated gem

Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro is primarily based on Monkey Punch’s manga called Lupin III. It is Hayao Miyazaki’s finest work that deserves a watch. The story follows Lupin and Daisuke, who walk out of the casino with large bundles of money, only to figure out it’s counterfeit.

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They set out for Caligostro to work the matter out, but Lupin decides to save Princess Clarisse from the wretched count. The movie is action-packed with a sprinkle of comedy and romance. This is precisely why even Steven Spielberg couldn’t help but be inspired.

Even Monkey Punch praised Miyazaki for his gentle approach in portraying Lupin’s character. In the manga, however, he is more violent and brutal, which would make the film R-rated. This is what he said eventually:

Miyazaki made a very good movie, including its kind tone which I could never have drawn. I’d say my Lupin was poisonous, he was willing to achieve his goal by any means, he was a character full of desire and the dirty part of humanity, and he couldn’t be drawn in that sort of kindhearted way

By and large, Yuji Ohno’s music and the background score enhance the comical elements. From Lupin’s jump to his hilarious antics, this film is a refreshing take on the manga, and you must add it to your watchlist.

Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro is currently streaming on Prime Video.
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