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-Legendary director/animator Hayao Miyazaki would soon go on to become one of the most internationally renowned and respected filmakers in Japanese history. Before his rise to fame, Miyazaki's first production was a classic tale of a master thief, whom found it in himself to re-discover his long forgotten past; in order to rescue a princess from the clutches of an evil madman. The Anime Overview's pick for the #4 greatest anime is a stunning classic tale, full of underlying evil plots, a breathtaking storyline and of a vintage-anime rendition of the classic damsel-in-distress tale; and a take-off of most every single adventure hero in imagination. -Indeed, "The Castle Of Cagliostro" is one of the most highly regarded classic tales of anime. There is something for everyone, adventure, romance, action, suspense, screwball humor and to top it off a both legendary and classic anime comic character; Lupin the Third. The tale is derived from the best-selling comic book "Monkey Punch". It is the story of the misadventures of master thief Lupin III and his hard-hitting sidekick "Jigen". Together they uncover the secrets of ancient treasures, bring about the justice at hand (according to their motives of course) and all in enough time to rob every bank and royal treasure they can get there hands on. -The production style reflects much of the techniques "Miyazaki" has made famous in his films. This matches perfectly with the comic style of "Monkey Punch", brought to the big-screen brilliantly by Miyazaki. His wonderful sense of conceptual style is present in "The Caslte Of Cagliostro" like all his films. The movie involves both Japanese and European style influences in it's animation. Though "Miyazaki" does not utilize the animation techniques seen in his later productions, his incredible sense of visual style is still present. Complete with stunning background art and color-design unlike anything seen around that time. -A timeless adventure story, told like a epic romance, one full of action and suspense. Aspects which are highly influential for an animated motion picture of it's time. It is a story which I never get tired of. The Castle Of Cagliostro is brilliantly directed, especially for a director's first production. You never really know whats around the corner, or whats going to become of the plot. The film never seizes to impress and entertain, as well as stir the imagination to new heights. "The Castle Of Cagliostro" is well-deserving of a position as number four, in the Anime Overview's top ten. Back To Main Page |
