This is probably my favorite scene from Lupin III Part V.
Near the end of the penultimate episode, we have Jigen telling Lupin to consider retiring, as the modern age seems to be catching up on them and their mostly archaic ways. However, Lupin, being as he is, is still willing to take the challenge. He sees how exciting their situation sounds, almost like some sort of TV show (specifically the mention of the hero’s song).
Initially, when Jigen makes the “this ain’t some TV show” comment, I was worried about how meta this conversation was going to get, but surprisingly, it takes a different direction.
Lupin believes we’re each our own audience in our individual life. It doesn’t matter what others may think of you. All that matters is what you are doing next. And if others don’t like it they can “switch it off”.
But, it’s more than just a simple “lesson of the week”. This scene is also reflecting on the future of the Lupin franchise. With a plethora of new anime coming out every year (or season, for that matter), there’s always something new, in the now. Lupin has been living for five whole decades, and, though the fandom still seems to be strong, there may come a day when that audience is lost.
However, Lupin the Third won’t meddle with that. Until that time comes, he’ll always remain the gentleman thief that he has been for the last 50 years.
I might also add that Part V is one of my favorite incarnations of the franchise. The writing and animation has been solid throughout, and the stories are perfectly woven together (even the one-off throwback episodes spliced in between are a delight). The staff and cast have outdone it this time.
One episode remains, and I know, in good old Lupin fashion, it will go out guns blazing. Until next time…
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