Key Highlights
- The first film directed by Hayao Miyazaki is set for a new international release with an English dub.
- Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro premiered in Japan over four and a half decades ago.
- Crunchyroll and Discotek Media are collaborating on this special Steelbook Collector’s Edition.
- The film features well-known performers from the Lupin III franchise, including Tony Oliver, Michelle Ruff, Richard Epcar, and Lex Lang.
Hayao Miyazaki’s Pioneering Work: The Castle of Cagliostro
In 1979, Japan witnessed the theatrical premiere of Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro, marking the debut of what would become one of the most influential figures in animation history. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this film was not only his first but also a crucial stepping stone for Studio Ghibli’s future success.
Derived from Monkey Punch’s original manga series, Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro tells the story of master thief Lupin III and his partner-in-crime Daisuke Jigen. Their adventure takes them to a remote European nation, where they must navigate through traps and assassins to rescue Clarisse, who is being forced into an arranged marriage with Count Cagliostro. The film’s action-packed plot and intricate animation captivated audiences and set the stage for Miyazaki’s subsequent works.
Return of a Classic: A Special Collector’s Edition
Nearly five decades later, this groundbreaking anime is making its return to international screens with a brand-new English dub. On December 15, 2025, Crunchyroll and Discotek Media are teaming up for the release of Hayao Miyazaki’s Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro. This Steelbook Collector’s Edition comes with a host of special features designed to enhance the viewing experience.
The Blu-ray includes cast and crew interviews, original theatrical trailers, an art gallery, and an exclusive audio commentary track featuring Discotek Media staff member Reed Nelson. Renowned voice actors from the Lupin III franchise provide the English dub, including Tony Oliver as Lupin III, Michelle Ruff as Fujiko Mine, Richard Epcar as Daisuke Jigen, and Lex Lang as Goemon Ishikawa.
Impact and Legacy: From Box Office to Icon
While Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro did not achieve major box office success in Japan at the time of its release, it earned critical acclaim for its animation and action sequences. This recognition helped Miyazaki secure support for his next feature film, Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, which was produced by Top Craft in 1984.
In 1985, Hayao Miyazaki co-founded Studio Ghibli with Toshio Suzuki, Yasuyoshi Tokuma, and Isao Takahata. Over the following decade, Studio Ghibli gained international acclaim for films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Grave of the Fireflies, and Kiki’s Delivery Service.
These works solidified Miyazaki’s status as a major player in the world of anime. Today, Studio Ghibli is celebrated worldwide for its innovative storytelling and artistic vision.
Accessing the Classic: Where to Watch
The Steelbook Collector’s Edition of Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro is available for pre-order exclusively from Crunchyroll’s online store. At a discounted rate, it costs US$44.95 (from US$49.95). For those who prefer streaming services, Hayao Miyazaki’s other films are available to stream on either Max or Netflix.
As anime continues to grow in popularity globally, the re-release of this classic film serves as a reminder of its enduring legacy and the impact it had on the medium.
Fans and newcomers alike can now enjoy this pioneering work, enriched by a new English dub and special features that celebrate its rich history and innovative storytelling.
This release marks an exciting moment for anime enthusiasts and collectors, offering a chance to experience a groundbreaking film in a fresh light. As Hayao Miyazaki’s Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro returns to screens, it invites viewers to step into a world filled with adventure, intrigue, and timeless storytelling.
