If you’re an anime fan, you were probably excited when Netflix released its Lupin series in 2021. It’s not the same character as Lupin the Third, but they’re based on the same French novels by Maurice LeBlanc. LeBlanc’s Arsène Lupin, the Gentleman Thief, is all about the scammer’s life. He lives with flair and his capers are legendary. The Japanese version of the story features Lupin III, the original Arsène Lupin’s grandson, and has also gained legend status. So, when France decided to re-envision their classic they faced a challenge to pull off the beloved sleight of hand with as much grandeur.
Lupin, starring Omar Sy, created a new legend over a 2-part season that made us love this third iteration of Lupin. This live-action Gentleman Thief isn’t related by blood. His name is Assane Diop and he’s a super-fan of LeBlanc, who plans an icy cold revenge inspired by the books. In a season with a labyrinth of twists and more turns of fortune, Assane pulls off complex heists like the number one stunner he is. And he does it in an array of colorful Air Force 1s from Nike. Fans loved it. I did too.
Season 2 of Lupin starts with Assane in hiding, separated from his family, and yet still unreformed. Things kick off with a heist and never stop rolling. Assane believes he’s protecting his ex-wife and son by staying away. He’s wrong. Life isn’t going well at home. His son, Raoul (Etan Simon) is suffering from his absence, and his ex, Claire (Ludivine Sagnier), is constantly hounded by the press. Perhaps it’s time for Assane and his sweet little dog, J’Accuse, to return to Paris.
Over at the police station, neither Guedira (Soufiane Guerrab)—the detective who knows him best—nor Lieutenant Sofia (Shirine Boutella)—the one who wants to arrest him the most—has given up on finding the elusive thief. It’s dangerous to return but maybe he can pull off his most daring series of robberies yet. That’s if he can avoid the unknown Bad Guy who wants to play puppeteer in Assane’s life before destroying it (starting with his lovable and loyal best friend, Benjamin (Antoine Gouy). However, the past threatens to overshadow Assane’s hopes of escaping his sins and if Season 1 was about avenging his father, Season 2 is about finding his mother.
Lupin continues to spin the wheel of fortune but it’s not a game in S2. Omar Sy is that guy—Mister Steal Your Heart with a wink while picking your pocket with ease—but this time he’s at risk of losing his friends, his family, and his life. The second season doesn’t hit the same level of thrills as the first but it somehow feels more dangerous with a bigger emotional hook. And the best part is watching the reveals of how the tricks were done. That makes Part 3 a hat trick.
Watch It.
