“Exploring the Riveting World of Lupin: Part 3 – IGN Critique”

Review: Lupin Part 3 – An Exploration of Identity, Family, and Deception

An Unresolved Dynamic

The highly anticipated third season of the Netflix crime drama, Lupin, falls slightly short of expectations when it comes to Assane Diop’s (played by Omar Sy) relationship with his estranged wife, Claire. The season picks up several months after Assane goes on the run, desperately searching for a way to make amends to Claire and their teenage son, Raoul. However, the show chooses to ignore the dramatic oddities of their dynamic, leaving the audience wanting more resolution in that aspect.

A Step Back

The third season, consisting of seven episodes, relies heavily on flashbacks, which, although intriguing, do not always lead to satisfying conclusions. Compared to the tightly wound drama and propulsive plotting of the second season, Part 3 takes a step back. However, the show maintains its snappiness and fun, never losing sight of the essence of the gentleman thief genre: panache and sleight of hand.

A Promising Start

The season begins with a pitch-perfect hour-long premiere episode, where Assane is drawn back to Paris from his Marseille hideaway due to media attention surrounding Claire. Determined to rescue his family from the ruthless media spotlight, Assane’s covert visit to Claire doesn’t go as hoped. His criminal ambitions and double life have caused their predicament, and Claire is understandably skeptical of his promises. Assane’s motive leaves a bitter taste, and throughout the season, his actions continually contribute to this uneasiness.

An Awkward Execution

While the show eventually brings about character development and growth for Assane, it continuously postpones this vital progression. Regrettably, Assane’s behavior towards his family often makes him come off as creepy. Despite this awkward portrayal, the show remains rooted in its clockwork heist elements, creating thrilling moments through Mathieu Lamboley’s jazzy and energetic score.

A Story of Illusions and Intrigues

The Unseen Intrigue

Part 3 of Lupin delves into Assane’s past, reintroducing characters from earlier seasons and introducing new figures who impact Assane’s schemes positively or negatively. Although some of the newcomers work well as temporary pawns, the season also features a new kingpin lurking in the shadows, determined to complicate Assane’s life. The reasons behind this antagonism are not revealed until nearly the end of the season, leaving the audience eagerly waiting for answers.

The Time-Skipping Plot

Throughout the season, the show employs a gratuitous back-and-forth narrative approach, revealing past events in flashbacks as they become relevant to the present plot. While this technique may be half-baked at times, it remains engaging due to the excellent performances of the young actors playing Assane and Claire in 1998, as they navigate their path into adulthood. However, it is peculiar that the backdrop of France’s successful 1998 soccer World Cup campaign, a significant event shaping the nation’s identity, is never tied into Assane’s story.

Exploring Identity

Lupin has, until now, been nominally about modern French identity, centered around Assane, the son of Senegalese immigrants, who exploits the disdain wealthy white society holds for him. However, in Part 3, Assane manipulates white characters’ predisposition to apologize, questioning whether their suspicion stems from his Blackness or his criminal activities. It is a marvelously funny juggling act, though the season does not fully capitalize on the proletariat-versus-bourgeois backdrop beyond a fleeting mention.

An Enjoyable but Flawed Journey

Sy’s Debonair Performance

Lupin Part 3 may have its flaws, but it remains largely enjoyable due to Omar Sy’s charismatic performance as Assane. He effortlessly embodies the character, from his mesmerizing smile to his fierce protectiveness of his family. Whether in colorful disguises or exuding swagger, Sy’s presence captures the audience’s attention, making it impossible to look away. His performance is the show’s not-so-secret weapon.

Unyielding Momentum

Despite the unresolved dynamics and narrative shortcomings, Lupin Part 3 maintains its momentum with its relentless pace and action. Each heist scene is entertaining, even upon revisiting them through flashbacks, allowing the audience to see the tricks and illusions they might have missed initially.

Conclusion

Lupin Part 3 may not reach the heights of its previous season, but it remains a riveting and entertaining crime drama. While the show’s exploration of Assane’s past and the use of flashbacks may not always hit the mark, Omar Sy’s performance and the show’s unyielding momentum keep viewers engaged. Lupin Part 3 serves as a reminder of the genre’s appeal, capturing the essence of the gentleman thief, even amidst its imperfections.