Netflix’s 3-Part Heist Thriller Is the Perfect Weekend Binge Before Its 2026 Return

It’s somewhat rare for international shows to break out, given that viewers are more likely to gravitate towards stories that feel familiar to them. That being said, some shows feel so universal and accessible that they have no issue crossing any potential language barrier. Lupin is one of Netflix’s most creative shows because it is a clever reworking of the classic character of Arsène Lupin, a gentleman thief who appeared in early-20th century stories by the French author Maurice Leblanc. Rather than trying to transplant Lupin into the present, the series instead stars Omar Sy as the good-natured burglar Assane Diop, who is inspired by Leblanc’s writing.

The decision to acknowledge the existence of the original Lupin stories is a brilliant choice because the show reflects the universality of Leblanc’s writing by showing the impact that it has upon Assane. Given that he grew up the son of immigrants who came to Senegal from France with little money or possessions, the idea of a masterful swindler who could become untouchable by the authorities is a very desirable fantasy. Heist stories in both film and television are ultimately successful based on whether they present schemes that are both surprising and somewhat authentic; Lupin becomes breathlessly entertaining with its twists and turns while also committing to the depiction of Assane as an intelligent character who could realistically baffle any of his pursuers.

‘Lupin’ Does Heists Better Than Any Other Show

Netflix’s Lupin is a masterclass in writing and directing because the show understands where to create puzzle boxes and when to fill the viewer in with details. Although Sy is so naturally charismatic that it’s easy to root for Assane, the series slowly reveals details about his backstory that explain why he got into his line of work. After his father was framed for a robbery, Assane learned how cold and calculating the justice system could be, and how those with privilege and power often manage to bend the rules to their will. It offers a different perspective on the idea of a “gentleman thief” because Assane is masquerading as a high-class member of society, and thus has become more elusive. Even if Lupin is more interested in exciting art heists than class commentary, Assane reveals on more than one occasion that being perceived as wealthy means he’ll be asked a lot fewer questions.

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Omar Sy stars as the world-famous thief.

That Assane is initially working to unravel a mystery allows Lupin to be about justice and balance, not just the high-wire act of pulling off daring burglaries. Given that the series became a record-smashing hit that earned a heavy amount of anticipation for its later seasons, it’s a smart choice to emphasize Assane’s growing popularity in society, as he becomes known as a Robin Hood-esque figure whose thievery is associated with holding those in power responsible. However, the stakes are also personal; in the show’s second season, Assane is forced to work for his enemies to protect his son Raoul (Etan Simon), who has been in the sole custody of his estranged wife Claire (Ludivine Sagnier). This also serves as a smart way for Lupin to deliver its flashbacks, as it incorporates interludes featuring a younger version of Assane that explain how he came to meet Claire for the first time, and how he developed a relationship with his future partner Benjamin (Antoine Gouy).

‘Lupin’ Is a Clever Reinvention of a Classic Character

Lupin is an ideal binge-watch because each season feels like a complete statement that is contributing to the larger storyline of Assane’s mythic status. The cliffhanger of Raoul’s kidnapping is an intriguing way of setting up a sinister villain in Hubert Pellegrini (Hervé Pierre), the ruthless tycoon responsible for framing Assane’s father. However, each season is orchestrated around a main heist, including a diamond necklace that belonged to the Pellegrini family and a Black Pearl of great value to the people of Marseille. Impressively, Lupin has managed to stage some of its most significant set pieces in prominent locations, such as the Place Vendôme, the Père Lachaise Cemetery, and the Château de Thoiry. It’s not only an exploration of some of the most frequently visited destination sights in France, but a means to explore the nation’s history.

Lupin is a character who belongs to the public domain, and can thus be adapted by any producer or director in the same way that Robin Hood, King Arthur, Tarzan, or Zorro could. Although using a familiar name might be a way of getting audiences hooked, it does not always result in a creatively satisfying endeavor. Lupin is a clever modern update that understands why the original books still have relevance today, yet also provides a star-making role for Sy, who is able to bring a welcome amount of depth and integrity to the show’s lead. Lupin has been renewed for a fourth season that will follow up on its latest cliffhanger, and remains one of the few Netflix shows that has been consistent in both release schedule and overall quality.