Kokaku Kidotai
a.k.a. Ghost In The Shell
Synopsis
It is the year 2029. Technology has taken over and now it’s become difficult finding anyone without mechanical implants installed in their bodies. One mechanical implant enables users to plug themselves into ‘the net’. In this world, you become vulnerable to hackers who can hack into your ‘ghost’ and take control of your identity. A notorious ghost hacker known as the ‘Puppet Master’ comes into power and commits many cyber crimes.
Motoko Kusanagi is a major working for Public Security Section 9. She is almost completely cyborg, apart from elements of human brain matter. She questions her existence, and whether someone as herself counts as a real human being. With the help of Batou, her second in command, Motoko goes on a hunt to catch the Puppet Master.
Review
Ghost In The Shell moves at a sluggish pace, has underdeveloped characters and has some of the most convoluted and sloppy dialogue I have ever heard. The pretentious dialogue doesn’t help explain any of the storyline which borders on complete incoherence. Already boring enough as it is, the almost non existent soundtrack doesn’t help, particularly during the action scenes.
Sure, I can understand that the imagery and scripting probably includes enough biblical references, social/political commentary and philosophical questions to write entire books analysing the whole thing, but ultimately this film doesn’t make any sense on first viewing and fails to entertain.
The only good thing I have to say about this movie is that the animation is impressive, and even now I consider this a landmark in CGI merging with traditional cel animation, in which the two merge seamlessly.
Final Verdict
While the animation was revolutionary for it’s time, the plot is self indulgent, confusing and sluggishly paced.