Screenwriter Peter Briggs, known for his work on the 2004 film Hellboy, recently shared an intriguing anecdote about a long-abandoned project. He took to Bluesky to describe the “craziest screenplay” he had ever written: a live-action adaptation of the beloved anime and manga series Lupin III, originally intended to star comedian Jim Carrey.
Briggs revealed that he was collaborating with director Tsui Hark and producer A. Kitman Ho back in 1997 on this ambitious project. Unfortunately, the rights to the film were lost, preventing the adaptation from coming to fruition. He expressed a sense of nostalgia about the potential film, which would have brought a unique twist to the adventures of the titular character—a master thief inspired by Maurice Leblanc’s novels.
Lupin III, which first appeared as a manga from 1967 to 1969, has become a significant part of anime culture, especially known for its various adaptations, including the acclaimed 1979 film Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro—directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. The series combines action, comedy, and charming heists, and has captivated audiences for decades.
Briggs’ input into the cinematic world aligns him with notable talents like Hark, who has directed films starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Ho, who has produced major films such as Platoon and Wall Street.
This reminiscing not only highlights the creative ambitions surrounding the beloved Lupin III franchise but also underscores the exciting possibilities of blending diverse talents in filmmaking. While the project may never see the light of day, it showcases the deep connection between classic anime and potential Hollywood adaptations, fostering hope for future projects that might capture the spirit of such beloved stories.