Millions from all over the world have begun to watch the television series Lupin: a retelling of the classic French story about Arsène Lupin, a master of disguise, and gentleman’s thief. The three-part television series is focused on the main character Assane Diop, played by Omar Sy.
Assane Diop is a first-generation immigrant from Senegal, who traveled to France with his father in hopes of having a better life. However, these hopes were quickly shattered when Assane’s father was framed for stealing a diamond necklace from an elite, Hugo Pelligrini. From that moment on, Assane’s world is turned upside down, and he struggles to make a living and survive.
To cope, Assane becomes immersed in French literature and idolizes Arsène Lupin. character, Arsène Lupin, was created in the early 20th century by Maurice Leblanc.
Various levels and ideas of French culture are implemented into the show. For example, since Lupin is based off of a children’s book, a lot of the specific language used from the classic has been simplified and presented as the foundation of the show’s storyline. However, once these fundamental ideas from the classics are applied to the real world (of the show), the various topics become more complex.
The creative direction that Lupin takes on is unique in both French and American films. Junior Ava Maughan said, “I felt that the creative direction of it [Lupin] was really unique. The filming and storytelling were really impactful because of how it took us into the past, to allow us to look at the present in a new way.”
Lupin’s unique storytelling and cinematography allow viewers to be immersed in modern language and culture. The television show touches on a variety of topics including race and class. Although the show is entirely fictional, Lupin, and other shows alike, touch on relevant real-world issues.
In terms of bringing these conversations to life in the Hackley community, Aran Basu, junior student and leader of the French club said, “French media in general is something that we would be really interested in introducing at Hackley.”
Later he then said, “It’s not just about talking, it is about engaging with French culture in whatever way we can!”