This having one of the lesser strange plots and no crazy plot “twists” like Mamo (first movie) and Gold Babylon (movie 1985). It more or less sticks to what makes Lupin great; a crazy fun action ride with quick wit much like the TV show. It was even directed by the well-known Osamu Dezaki (Aim for the Ace, Black Jack, Ashita no Joe).
Getting into the characters, this 90 minute special primarily focuses on Lupin, Jigen, and Inspector Zenigata, with limited appearances from the typical rest of the gang; mainly sexy Fujiko Mine who doesn’t truly factor in until near the end.
Sound and animation are only slightly better than Gold Babylon, which is a total disappointment going from 1985 to 1991. Music is fairly bland instead of the usual hot jazz that the Lupin franchise is known for.
Although the atmosphere this special puts on is very enjoyable. All character interactions are filled with wit and humour. Even the over-the-top crazy homage to every major world power going through tough economic times (post communism) all come to the conclusion of chasing Lupin for the same treasure he is after. That final fifteen minutes is ridiculous and would make anybody laugh, or at least get a good chuckle out of.
Lupin III Steal Napoleon's Dictionary is one of the better specials and or films of the franchise to date, just on the fact that most others are way too weird. Although it does not break any new grounds on the franchise like Castle of Cagliostro did, this special holds true to the classic Lupin formula in slightly above average fashion.
