Yes, plot holes everywhere, ridiculously unlikely escapes and escapades, and still I enjoyed every minute. The lead character, played by Omar Sy, just sweeps you along with it all. See it as just pure entertainment and don't get too concerned about some the finer details and you can sit back and enjoy the cleverness of some parts, the humour in others and the fun of it all.
637 Reviews
So what's the problem
blanche-228 June 2021
Looking over the reviews, I see things like "more holes than swiss cheese," "exaggeration," "loopholes," "suspension of disbelief," etc.
I'm not disagreeing, but somehow, I never read these things about Mission: Impossible or James Bond movies.
Lupin is the story of a man (Omar Sy) out to avenge his father's imprisonment for stealing a valuable necklace, which causes him to commit suicide. From childhood, his father encouraged his interest in the gentleman detective, Arsene Lupin, which is a series of books by Maurice Leblanc.
In order to achieve his revenge against his father's ex-employer, Pellegrini (Herve Pierre), he uses Lupin's techniques. Little does he know, one of the detectives on the robbery case is a fan of Lupin.
I think this is a fun, light series, kind of a fantasy, with stunning Paris surroundings.
I'm not disagreeing, but somehow, I never read these things about Mission: Impossible or James Bond movies.
Lupin is the story of a man (Omar Sy) out to avenge his father's imprisonment for stealing a valuable necklace, which causes him to commit suicide. From childhood, his father encouraged his interest in the gentleman detective, Arsene Lupin, which is a series of books by Maurice Leblanc.
In order to achieve his revenge against his father's ex-employer, Pellegrini (Herve Pierre), he uses Lupin's techniques. Little does he know, one of the detectives on the robbery case is a fan of Lupin.
I think this is a fun, light series, kind of a fantasy, with stunning Paris surroundings.
Consistently entertaining
barrymw10 October 2023
I admit I love a good heist story. In Lupin we have a little more than a single heist but a succession of daring robberies and masterful escapes all pulled together by a main story line that I won't spoil here as it runs through all three series.
Each series proceeds at a cracking pace which does mean that there are a few plot holes but it doesn't matter because you just hang on for the ride. It's great fun and you root for the protagonist throughout. You can watch each series as a stand-alone but are better watched as a three series arc. With each series only being a handful episodes you don't need to invest a mountain of time.
I have one minor criticism in that the main protagonists is a very big man and very recognisable and so I had to suspend disbelief that he could disappear so easily so often. Yet in a way that just adds to the fun of it all.
While other series such as Money Heist have in the past generated a huge buzz, this is a much better series all round and have no hesitation in recommending it.
Each series proceeds at a cracking pace which does mean that there are a few plot holes but it doesn't matter because you just hang on for the ride. It's great fun and you root for the protagonist throughout. You can watch each series as a stand-alone but are better watched as a three series arc. With each series only being a handful episodes you don't need to invest a mountain of time.
I have one minor criticism in that the main protagonists is a very big man and very recognisable and so I had to suspend disbelief that he could disappear so easily so often. Yet in a way that just adds to the fun of it all.
While other series such as Money Heist have in the past generated a huge buzz, this is a much better series all round and have no hesitation in recommending it.
I absolutely loved it
sayamasjad8 February 2023
The series, featuring the talented Omar Sy, was so engaging and thrilling that I found myself binge-watching all of the episodes in just one day. The writing was top-notch, creating a captivating storyline with well-developed characters. Omar Sy was fantastic in his role as Assane Diop, bringing the character to life with his charismatic performance. The show also had stunning cinematography, with gorgeous shots that added to the overall aesthetic. Overall, I highly recommend to anyone looking for an entertaining and thrilling series to watch. Absolutely loved and looking forward for next season.
just wow
Arthur_P3tit9 January 2021
You'll see a lot of reviews that says that it's not for real Lupin fans and therefore they give it only a few stars. And that's the problem with people nowadays.
The serie is based on the story of Lupin, they never said it's THE story OF Lupin.
Omar Sy plays the charcter very well and I love how they manage to get the viewers attention during the whole episode.
I can't wait for the next season
Watch in Quick Succession
jordyntsmith9 August 2021
Parts one and two follow the story of a modern gentleman thief attempting to exact revenge on the man who framed his father years prior.
I really enjoyed part one, I thought it was a fun mystery series with elements of Sherlock Holmes that I really enjoyed. Part one had a stronger 'mastermind' element that I enjoyed (part two was more action heavy, which I enjoyed less).
I watched part 1 shortly after it came out and I loved it! But then I had to wait for part 2. It was a real challenge to get back into the story in part 2, and I found the series suffered for it. Lupin should be watched as a whole in quick succession, and not with months of separation.
I think the premise of the show is excellent, but I am concerned that the quality will lessen if they continue to produce the series. It should end as a mini series in my opinion.
I really enjoyed part one, I thought it was a fun mystery series with elements of Sherlock Holmes that I really enjoyed. Part one had a stronger 'mastermind' element that I enjoyed (part two was more action heavy, which I enjoyed less).
I watched part 1 shortly after it came out and I loved it! But then I had to wait for part 2. It was a real challenge to get back into the story in part 2, and I found the series suffered for it. Lupin should be watched as a whole in quick succession, and not with months of separation.
I think the premise of the show is excellent, but I am concerned that the quality will lessen if they continue to produce the series. It should end as a mini series in my opinion.
Such a good show, holds up all seasons
esjacobs7 October 2023
Loved it, it is gripping, entertaining, smart with many twists and turns. Sure there are some loopholes but I don't care about it at all. And it did not make it any less fun to watch. Just have fun with it! Same as you go to a magician show, you know it's not real magic but you like to be fooled anyway. And that's the same feeling I had with this one. There was a long time between seasons, and each time I wondered if it will hold up and each season I was hooked, just finished the last and it was just as compelling as the previous seasons. And I think it'a very clever for a show to keep it consistent like that. Love it that it's French, Omar Sy lights up the screen (speaking about charisma). It keeps you on the edge of your seat, because you want to find out how he fooled the people again. All in all, very entertaining and something different.
think of it as a French version of leverage or hustle with roots, and a twist
jazfro9 January 2021
I like it. It's witty, well acted and directed.
This version of Lupin is a clever re-imagining (with some flaws), trying to fast-forward the original character 100-years. And yes, XXIst century Lupin is the son of African immigrants. And why not?
Omar Sy is a great lead character and the production values are good. Perfectly enjoyable light entertainment. I repeat: this is meant to be watched for fun, it's not faithful to the details of the original books, it's not meant to be realistic. Good tv is escapism.
It reminds me in a good way of successful series like Hustle, or Leverage. with intricate cons and twists.
To the critics: you are right, this is not a series of Lupin faithful to the original books and historical context, in a way that David Suchet's Poirot was. But it is in the same line of re-imagining classics (though not quite as spectacular, but neither on the same budget) as Dominic Cumberbatch's Sherlock.
It's an enjoyable ride. Don't begrudge the artistic licence. Have some fun. For god's sake it's 2021!
So close to very good.
mpf10123 June 2021
Not even close to great, but SO close to very good. Slick production, fine acting, engaging sequences ... and then you hit a plot hole big enough to drive a tank thru. One after another after another. I admire the actors' professionalism in powering thru ridiculous situations time and again, but after a while, c'mon already. Yet...so close to very good. BTW, season one at least was unified. Season two lurches from one subplot to another with no discernible unifying arc. But still, I watched, I enjoyed, I regretted what could have been.
This is how you have more black people on television
parisbrunner8 September 2023
That's the way Disney, Marvel and these other big companies should make movies with black people.
In the show no one cares that he is black and that's the way all movies should do it. Not try to make a already white character black, no-no-no.
Make a good original black character and write a good original story to it. (like this series) BOOM you made a great show with a black person.
I would recommend this show to everyone who's interested in crime and drama.
It plays in Paris and the main character is a robber and takes on different identities for his acts.
There's a lot of brilliant plotwists and that makes the show even better.
In the show no one cares that he is black and that's the way all movies should do it. Not try to make a already white character black, no-no-no.
Make a good original black character and write a good original story to it. (like this series) BOOM you made a great show with a black person.
I would recommend this show to everyone who's interested in crime and drama.
It plays in Paris and the main character is a robber and takes on different identities for his acts.
There's a lot of brilliant plotwists and that makes the show even better.
Excellent first 2 season, not so much in season 3
CaptRon-211 October 2023
The first 2 seasons are highly entertaining, single-threaded, but the execution is fantastic to watch. The cat & mouse game, accompanied by a summary of the ruse keeps you watching for every clue.
Season 3 starts well with another intriguing heist. The first episode continues the excitement and entertainment of the previous season. Beginning mid-way in episode 2 of the season, flashbacks introduce Assane's mother. From there, the plot changes and reduces the lead to nothing more than a common thief being controlled by nefarious criminals. It truly devolves from this richness and intelligence of the character. It feels as if they needed to give Assane a reason to continue his thefts.
I'm open in seeing another season but only if they go back to the magic and mystery of the first 2 seasons.
Season 3 starts well with another intriguing heist. The first episode continues the excitement and entertainment of the previous season. Beginning mid-way in episode 2 of the season, flashbacks introduce Assane's mother. From there, the plot changes and reduces the lead to nothing more than a common thief being controlled by nefarious criminals. It truly devolves from this richness and intelligence of the character. It feels as if they needed to give Assane a reason to continue his thefts.
I'm open in seeing another season but only if they go back to the magic and mystery of the first 2 seasons.
I do not understand the low reviews
jsaus6330421 July 2021
I usually do not like to watch dubbed offerings from Netflix, but this came recommended so I tried it. They did a good job dubbing and if you do not concentrate on the lips, you soon do not notice it at all. It was a fun little series that put you in mind of the old Mission 'impossible series. Sure, there were some stretches but overall it was well done.
All I can figure with the low rating is that they are from people that like non stop chases, gun fights and explosions instead of a story line that you need to follow.
All I can figure with the low rating is that they are from people that like non stop chases, gun fights and explosions instead of a story line that you need to follow.
French series above the rest of French productions
poinla3714 June 2021
I'm French and I really dislike French series, mostly because they're not realistic enough, the writing is pompous, and the acting is usually awful.
I'm must admint that Lupin is not a super well produced series, but the story and the characters are deep enough to keep watching.
As usual, French cops are stupid AF (which is mostly true) and there's some plot holes and unrealistic stuff (like the cop in S02e02 who fires at Lupin's car. In France, there's strict rules about the use of firearms for the cops).
All in all, it's not amazing compared to some US/UK series, but it"s decent enough to watch and enjoy, and it's above most of the other French series.
I'm must admint that Lupin is not a super well produced series, but the story and the characters are deep enough to keep watching.
As usual, French cops are stupid AF (which is mostly true) and there's some plot holes and unrealistic stuff (like the cop in S02e02 who fires at Lupin's car. In France, there's strict rules about the use of firearms for the cops).
All in all, it's not amazing compared to some US/UK series, but it"s decent enough to watch and enjoy, and it's above most of the other French series.
Story filled with loop holes
rashidsalman12 June 2021
Incredible amount of exaggeration and shocking level or story patch ups. Lupin is well shot, but poorly written. Extremely frustrating to see FRANCE' MOST WANTED man just chilling in public and wearing the worst disguises and still never getting caught.
Suspenseful, Clever and Fun
rogier-8678510 October 2023
This modern version of the Lupin thieving mysteries is a well written, well executed and above all superbly played addition to the mystery genre. The series centers around our master thief who runs into serious trouble with France's elite at almost every turn, and his ability to outsmart them all.
There is a lot of suspense to be found, as the plots often take you on twists and turns that are unexpected and thrilling. Overall, it's a well executed show with a clear focus on great character development. All the people in the stories are well fleshed out, and it is joy to follow all of them.
The entire production, from music to directing to costumes to writing to acting... it's all done really, really well. My only niggle is that our hero at times seems to get away a little too easy with a few moments when he's out of his usual disguises, which breaks the suspense and the immersion.
But the stories are great, and the finales are worth every second of watching. Highly recommended.
There is a lot of suspense to be found, as the plots often take you on twists and turns that are unexpected and thrilling. Overall, it's a well executed show with a clear focus on great character development. All the people in the stories are well fleshed out, and it is joy to follow all of them.
The entire production, from music to directing to costumes to writing to acting... it's all done really, really well. My only niggle is that our hero at times seems to get away a little too easy with a few moments when he's out of his usual disguises, which breaks the suspense and the immersion.
But the stories are great, and the finales are worth every second of watching. Highly recommended.
TV drama at it's finest
InnerWisdom10001 November 2023
This is how you make TV drama!!
Of course this drama series has more plot holes than you could drive a bus through, and one must suspend belief in many parts, but that is to entirely miss the point. Which is that this is a drama series that goes beyond entertaining the viewer: it takes you on a roller-coaster ride that is as thrilling as it is enlightening. Yes, it is action and thrills mixed with ample doses of fantasy, but what is wrong with that? For me, I could not have spent my TV time better, so Thank You one and all for the superlative direction, production, script and consumate acting.
And as for those viewers who relish in pointing out the many plot holes but fail to see the sum of all parts and the bigger picture, I say to you ease up and get a life!!
An immensely enjoyable drama series, I heartily recommend...
Of course this drama series has more plot holes than you could drive a bus through, and one must suspend belief in many parts, but that is to entirely miss the point. Which is that this is a drama series that goes beyond entertaining the viewer: it takes you on a roller-coaster ride that is as thrilling as it is enlightening. Yes, it is action and thrills mixed with ample doses of fantasy, but what is wrong with that? For me, I could not have spent my TV time better, so Thank You one and all for the superlative direction, production, script and consumate acting.
And as for those viewers who relish in pointing out the many plot holes but fail to see the sum of all parts and the bigger picture, I say to you ease up and get a life!!
An immensely enjoyable drama series, I heartily recommend...
A Novel you read on the screan
explorermentor7156 September 2023
Very lovely story and act. It is unique comparing with US show I am used too!. A gentle theif who seeks revenge. The ending was really unexpectedly classic. Every character got to their expected happy ending. Bad guys got what they deserve, good guys won. And the good charactes understood each other like we the audience wish, even more I felt. Now I am curious for the third season coming on october. They ended the story in away that there is nothing left to expect. The skills Lupin got is fantasy in my opinion... very amusing on the screen but not real. I wish to have friend like Lupin's. Their friendship is a lifetime one. It is sweet mix of thriller, mystery, action, drama, even fantasy show.
Fantastic Escapism
cmtaylor-1099314 June 2021
From the conclusion of the first episode I was hooked. I absolutely adore this show. It's a really classy production with some great set pieces and plot twists.
I love how Assane executes all of his schemes by basically using trickery and always having an escape plan.
I also like it how the show, jumps between different timelines, showing us events from Assane's past and how they link to his present day experiences. The show should not be taken 100% seriously. This is not a serious detective drama and is actually quite humorous in places. Some of the plot points can be hard to believe, but it is so satisfying seeing our hero Assane succeed through a series of clever schemes.
I'd never herd of the fictional character Lupin and love how this show's main character is inspired by stories from the Lupin books, as opposed the character actually being Lupin.
Paris is also depicted beautifully in this programme, the production values are incredibly high. Some of the English dubbing for some of secondary characters is weak in places, but it saves me from having to learn French.
There's nothing else like Lupin on TV, and I cannot wait for part 3!
I love how Assane executes all of his schemes by basically using trickery and always having an escape plan.
I also like it how the show, jumps between different timelines, showing us events from Assane's past and how they link to his present day experiences. The show should not be taken 100% seriously. This is not a serious detective drama and is actually quite humorous in places. Some of the plot points can be hard to believe, but it is so satisfying seeing our hero Assane succeed through a series of clever schemes.
I'd never herd of the fictional character Lupin and love how this show's main character is inspired by stories from the Lupin books, as opposed the character actually being Lupin.
Paris is also depicted beautifully in this programme, the production values are incredibly high. Some of the English dubbing for some of secondary characters is weak in places, but it saves me from having to learn French.
There's nothing else like Lupin on TV, and I cannot wait for part 3!
Great season
ghsujyg9 January 2021
I never understood why people like to gate keep shows that are wonderfully adapted to a new story line. I found this series refreshing and the storyline was captivating. The main character is a wonderful actor and he's easy on the eyes as well.
Overall, I would rate it a 9/10 but I'm adding an extra point to counterbalance the gatekeepers who are mad over minor changes.
Overall, I would rate it a 9/10 but I'm adding an extra point to counterbalance the gatekeepers who are mad over minor changes.
Fun but with great French style
efd-1046712 June 2021
2021 starts with a great show!!!
ikjdkgj9 January 2021
I've heard the show got bad reviews but I've been following Omar Sy for years and every project he worked on so far have been great and this is no exception!!! Great intrigue, great action, the storyline is well thought nothing to say besides Great Job to the team and the cast.
Do yourself a favor and watch the show you will wait for the second part I know I do, watched the whole 5 episodes in one evening.
It's good, enjoyable..just don't take it too seriously
me-0812323 January 2021
Firstly watch it in French with English subs to get the full experience (imagine watching narcos and Pablo being dubbed into English). Lots of people talk about the plot holes etc ...but folks need to chill and not act as if every plot has to be wateright with in depth arcs etc. This series is enjoyable, it's akin in my eyes to the old school 'capers' of the past where you have to just enjoy the flow. The acting is spot on, the story and it's twists and turns is pitched just right. It's has sprinkles of humour, sadness, action and tension in the right proportions . If you are the type who would over analyse the pink panther movies, Lewis and Martin films, oceans 11 etc then you won't enjoy this...but if you aren't that uptight give it a try
Really good
imdb-ikysmoviedatabase8 January 2021
It doesn't take long to get straight into action. Really fast moving first episode hope the rest of the season continues to be just as good if not better. A few short flash backs might slow it down a little but goes well for the story.
Lew Pon?
scottjtepper17 July 2021
This amuse bouche is wonderful in French and a catastrophe in the English soundtrack. In French it's a 10. In English it's a 2.
While everything is irritating in the English soundtrack, perhaps someone can tell the ADR people that Lupin in French is pronounced "lew paeh" (the English word "pan" without the final "n" sound) not "lew pon."
While everything is irritating in the English soundtrack, perhaps someone can tell the ADR people that Lupin in French is pronounced "lew paeh" (the English word "pan" without the final "n" sound) not "lew pon."
Surprisingly good
zeedirect9 January 2021
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