冷戦時のルパン三世（ヒトラーの遺産、次元大介恋の逃避行）

ルパン三世は、1970年代にPART 1とPART 2のアニメが放送された。当時は冷戦期間中であったため、二度と作成されないであろうシナリオがあった。当時のことがわかるので、紹介したい。

ヒトラーの遺産

ナチスドイツのヒトラーの元部下が、東ベルリンに生きていた。その人物が、ヒトラーの財宝のありかを知っている。ルパン一味は東ベルリンへ渡り、ヒトラーの元部下を連れて西ベルリンへ向かう。当然、当時は、ベルリンの壁があった。見つかれば射殺される。ルパンたちは深夜にグライダーで空からベルリンの壁を越えて西ベルリンへ渡った。しかし、ヒトラーの財宝は、ヒトラーが子供の頃のテスト答案だったというコミカルな落ちである。

次元大介、恋の逃避行（正しいタイトルは「国境は別れの顔」）

次元大介は、ルパンとともにソ連の首都モスクワで、ダイヤモンド「オーロラの雫」を盗み出す。しかし、雪で滑り、次元は逃げ出せずに負傷してしまう。ルパンは必ず助けに戻ると告げてソ連から脱出する。警備兵に囲まれて死を覚悟した次元だが、モスクワでナンバーワンと呼び声高いバレリーナのモニカに助けられ、かくまわれる。彼女は、ソ連に嫌気がさし、西側へ逃げるパートナーを探していたのだ。日本人の次元と婚姻届を書き、二人は中立国のオーストリアを目指す。飛行機は監視が厳しいため、列車でポーランド、チェコに至る。オーストリアへの入国に、彼女は成功するが、次元はとらえられ、処刑されそうになる。そこでルパンがダイナマイトで雪崩を起こし、そのすきに助け出す（実は不二子がソ連？またはポーランド？に潜入し、情報をルパンに伝えていた）。後に、遊園地で二人は落ち合うが、彼女の目的は本物のダイヤモンドを次元に運ばせることだった。恋心を利用してダイヤモンドを奪い、売却してアメリカに渡る計画だったのだ。銃口を突きつけられた次元だが、そこまで甘くはない。相棒のルパンが次元を助けるよう、彼女に銃口を向ける。解放された次元は、結局はダイヤモンドを彼女に渡してしまう。裏切られていることを知りながら、次元は彼女に惚れていたのだ。ルパンからは「なんでダイヤモンド渡すんだよ、このロマンチスト！」と罵られる。次元がルパンに見張ってもらったのは、命が惜しいからではない。命ではなく、「モニカが好きだからダイヤモンドを渡す」という意思を伝えたかったからだろう。本物のロマンチストだ。次元はルパンとは異なり、真面目な恋をするが、いつも悲恋に終わる。PART 2の傑作といわれる作品（神回）だ。

English essay by AI

In the world of anime, few series have captivated audiences quite like Lupin the 3rd, particularly its second installment, Lupin the 3rd Part II. Among its many episodes, "Kokkyō wa Wakare no Kao" (translated as "The Border is the Face of Parting") stands out for its unique blend of action, romance, and social commentary, all set against the backdrop of the Cold War.

Historical Context

The episode takes place during a time when global tensions were high, particularly between East and West. This historical context not only enhances the narrative but also allows for a deeper exploration of themes such as freedom and betrayal. The division of Berlin and the presence of the Soviet Union serve as a poignant reminder of the era's geopolitical struggles, making it a compelling backdrop for the story.

The Plot Unfolds

The story begins with Daisuke Jigen and Lupin III embarking on a mission to steal a precious diamond known as "Aurora's Drop" in Moscow. However, things take a turn when Jigen slips on the snow and is injured, leaving him vulnerable to capture. In a moment of desperation, Lupin promises to return and rescue him before escaping from the Soviet authorities.

As Jigen awaits his fate, he is rescued by a renowned ballerina named Monica, who is seeking to escape from the oppressive regime. Their relationship quickly develops as they decide to marry and flee together to neutral Austria. However, their journey is fraught with danger; they must travel by train through Poland due to strict air surveillance.

Upon reaching Austria, Monica's true intentions are revealed: she plans to use Jigen to transport the stolen diamond and then betray him. This twist adds layers to her character and raises questions about loyalty and love. Jigen finds himself torn between his feelings for Monica and his sense of betrayal when he realizes her plan.

Themes of Love and Betrayal

The episode masterfully intertwines elements of romance with action-packed sequences. Jigen's character is portrayed as a romantic idealist who ultimately succumbs to his feelings for Monica, even at the cost of his own safety. This tragic love story highlights Jigen's complexity; unlike Lupin, who often approaches relationships with a sense of detachment, Jigen embodies sincerity and vulnerability.

In a climactic confrontation, Lupin intervenes just as Monica threatens Jigen with a gun. The tension escalates as Lupin aims his weapon at Monica, showcasing the loyalty between him and Jigen. Despite knowing he has been betrayed, Jigen chooses to give Monica the diamond out of love, leading to Lupin's incredulous remark: "Why are you giving her the diamond? You romantic fool!" This moment encapsulates Jigen's character arc throughout the series—his deep-seated romanticism often leads him into tragic situations.

Social Commentary

"Kokkyō wa Wakare no Kao" goes beyond mere entertainment; it serves as a commentary on the human condition during times of political strife. The episode reflects on themes such as freedom versus oppression and the lengths people will go for love. The characters navigate their desires within a world that seeks to control them, making their personal struggles resonate with broader societal issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Kokkyō wa Wakare no Kao" is not just an episode about theft; it is a poignant exploration of love, betrayal, and human resilience set against the backdrop of Cold War tensions. The depth of character development, combined with thrilling action and emotional storytelling, solidifies its status as one of the standout episodes in Lupin the 3rd Part II. For both fans of anime and newcomers alike, this episode offers a rich narrative experience that transcends its genre.

Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Lupin_the_3rd_Part_II_episodes
[2] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0159192/episodes/?season=2
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lupin_the_3rd_Part_II
[4] https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/ルパン三世_PART6
[5] https://douga.flat-flat.jp/titles/S001776/3
[6] https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/ルパン三世_(TV第2シリーズ)の登場人物
[7] https://myanimelist.net/anime/1425/Lupin_III__Part_II
[8] https://www.chiba-tv.com/info/detail/15686