3. “Conan vs Kaitou Kid” (Episode 76)
No ‘must-watch’ list is complete without the elusive Kaitou Kid. From his first official appearance to Detective Conan, how can anyone not love the dynamic between detective and thief? The battle of wits and morals are literally mirroring one another, using their wits to either uncover the truth or guard their own secrets.
This was a change of pace from the usual murders and gritty atmosphere, shifting towards a more comedic and thrilling tone. In fact, Conan sometimes works with him because of his rules of not harming anyone, and gave us some of the greatest moments in the series.
In this specific episode, this is also everyone’s first introduction to the Phantom Thief. Despite having his own series Magic Kaito and eventually the anime adaptations Magic Kaito and Magic Kaito 1412, it all started when he crossed paths with the great detective. From his cool poker face, quick improvisations, and impossible feats like perfect disguises and escape plans; Kaitou Kid cemented his place in both 1987 and again in 1994 and counting. First impressions are important and how else than to present a challenge different from murders and evil intentions?
His brilliant skills of deducing the real jewel were fantastic; setting up smoke pellets that the crowd would accidentally aid in his attempt. Also can’t forget how he even fooled another magician, by doing it in front of him rather than setting up beforehand. Kaitou Kid is there to show off his talents as a magician, ensuring nobody is injured nor out of ill intentions like revenge. After their first confrontation, you cannot believe how often the thief returns and even shines in moments like The Last Wizard of the Century or Sunflowers of Inferno.
What are some of your favorite clashes between the Detective and Phantom Thief? Will Kaito Kid get more chapters and a proper ending in his own series? Were you also aware that Kaitou Kid first appeared in the manga, Magic Kaito (May 1987), years before Yaiba (1988) or Detective Conan (1994) were ever created. Check out the anime spin-off, Magic Kaito 1412, streaming on Crunchyroll.
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