Read User Reviews and Submit your own for Ghost in the Shell (2017)

8

BleedingJesterAug 31, 2023

Truly surprised at how good this movie is both visually and story wise I really expected Hollywood to have made another stain on a great Japanese franchise but its basically just a watered-down version of Ghost in the Shell and in some waysTruly surprised at how good this movie is both visually and story wise I really expected Hollywood to have made another stain on a great Japanese franchise but its basically just a watered-down version of Ghost in the Shell and in some ways that means this might be the perfect starting point for those interested in the Franchise… Expand

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8

Puddleboy112Apr 6, 2017

very very interesting story this movie is a great action film with some good moments and some bad moments , CGI is good, is have a beautiful cyberpunk world, soundtrack is nice and Scarlett Johansson is doing har best I really like thevery very interesting story this movie is a great action film with some good moments and some bad moments , CGI is good, is have a beautiful cyberpunk world, soundtrack is nice and Scarlett Johansson is doing har best I really like the chemistry with Major and Batou i am so a ready for a sequel… Expand

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9

RichJJan 15, 2023

Solid movie regardless of what the "critics" say. Has the right look and feel of the original very well acted but I will admit the story is a mixed bag. On the story point it's a pro's vs. con's deal seeing how the source material can be aSolid movie regardless of what the "critics" say. Has the right look and feel of the original very well acted but I will admit the story is a mixed bag. On the story point it's a pro's vs. con's deal seeing how the source material can be a bit abstract at times and or hard to follow. I can see why they went in this direction by watering down the story for more mass appeal.For the one's crying foul on the ScarJoe front she plays the major perfectly,stilted and emotionless just like the anime. The major is a real person but all robot and that is conveyed really well in the movie.It's a shame more people didn't take a chance and go see this, people fail to realize by not supporting these types of movies even with minor flaws studios are gonna be less inclined to take risks on materiel of a similar fashion.If your reading this please go watch it and if you feel the same way I do, get on here and leave a positive comment. Cult classics sometimes get a redo.… Expand

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10

Kai82May 21, 2022

I had low anticipations and expected a bad movie when we entered the cinema. Instead I say it is a faithful adaptation and a really good movie. Lets start with the elephant in the room. A lot of people said Scarlett Johansson as mainI had low anticipations and expected a bad movie when we entered the cinema. Instead I say it is a faithful adaptation and a really good movie. Lets start with the elephant in the room. A lot of people said Scarlett Johansson as main character was “whitewashing”. Those have not seen the movie or understood the story. It is a fundamental point in the story, logical and functional. I give an explanation at the end with a spoiler warning. Back to the review. Ghost in the Shell is one of my favorite franchise. I see it as a realistic prediction of the future except that I think those changes will take longer in real life. It is based on the Manga by Masamune Shirow and the Anime from 1995 is a true masterpiece. It has a Cyberpunk setting and plays in 2029. Many humans have augmented bodies (Cyborgs) as those have advantages like computer interfaces, more durability, strength and adaptations for many tasks. Unmodified humans are already viewed as inferior. However crime has also evolved as you can hack into these parts or brains or use those augmented bodies for crimes not possible before. The main characters work for the special unit Section 9 that is specialized in those fields. Protagonist Miria Killian is the first human with a fully artificial body (except brain) who got it after surviving a terrorist attack as she and her family searched refuge in Japan. She works for Section 9 and is indebted to Hanka Robotics who gave her the new body. As they explore a crime she finds strange traces that will change everything. I end this here to avoid spoilers. The story is different from the Anime and I say it is a good decision as they cant improve the original. Other adaptations failed horrible in this regard. The story is familiar and refreshing at the same time. It works from start to finish and we left very satisfied the cinema. The actors are well chosen. Scarlett Johansson is brilliantly good and I see this as strength of the movie. Pilou Asbaek is a fitting Batou that nails his role. Takeshi Kitano is one of my favorite actors and that he plays Daisuke Aramaki is incredibly good. I must also praise Juliette Binoche as Dr. Ouelet and Peter Ferdinando as Cutter. A truly good cats. The sets, costumes and special effects capture the feeling of the source material and enhance the movie. Overall I see this as one of a few good live action adaptations and like that they do not attempt to improve the original. Compare it to Cowboy Bebop for example. I give a 10/10 as it was a positive surprise. Spoiler warning: The experiments with the artificial bodies by Hanka Robotics are highly risky and have a lot of illegal components. They wanted human guinea pigs that will not be missed. They use members of an underground movement that protested against the government as those will not be missed in a greater scale. Even more they hide Motoko Kusanagi as Mira Killian who is a foreigner and refuge that has no relatives. If something happens to her not many questions will be asked. Just look how refugees are treated in the EU, USA or other countries and no one cares in a greater scale (Observations not my beliefs!)… Expand

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10

AzurisDec 11, 2021

+ Pretty good Visuals
+ Story well adopted
+ Imo the ethical Questions are better in Focus
+ i like the ending more

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7

DawdlingPoetNov 26, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a fast paced, futuristic sci fi thriller, with a particularly futuristic urban setting, a bit like what I've seen in clips of Blade Runner and the sort. I can't say I fully followed the plot but I found it an engrossing watch for the most part regardless. There is some pretty decent CGI present and I thought Scarlett Johansson did well playing such a complicated hybrid person/android - she is certainly a curious and determined character, at the least.

I thought this was a decent sci-fi film, although im not a big fan of futuristic style sci-fi films, I'd say this one is worth a watch - the main theme it covers being identity. An intriguing, entertaining watch, with a decent main performance by Johansson.… Expand

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0

kagekirazuulAug 30, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. i wanted so much to like this.
but, its so bad.
this idea of “modernizing sexualized women characters” is depressing.
There’s no defending that GITS original manga and anime had gratuitous **** and ass.
However, it is in spite of those being present, that Kusanagi Motoko becomes a believable character.

SPOILER

The fact that this movie changes the search from what what makes me human to what is my past memories is not only a reveal that has very little impact, it almost feels as though the writers hadnt even seen any of the original work.

Sad. This sucked, just like netflix castlevania sucked.
If you liked that, then you will love this, and vice versa.

Scarlett Johanssen was surely restrained and not given full freedom to act. She’s been nude in other films and the shock value of the original anime’s climax of the cybernetic body bursting from a human overriding the limits of the machine is more jolting as the audience has seen Motoko in the nude so many times they forget that her body is mechanized.

The reveal that white Scarlette is actually a stilen japanese motoko does not make up for it. The story is just sorry compared with the riveting content of the original.

Seek black mirror for better done stuff.… Expand

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9

Embalmer98Jun 10, 2021

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6

geewahJan 11, 2021

Not a bad movie, but nothing great either. It is a beautifully shot movie but the story is a bit of a letdown.

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6

INU4SH4Nov 16, 2020

While this live-action adaptation retains some of the original animated movie's charm, it is no way near as impactful both artistically and philosophically. While not as visually stunning as the original, this movie still managed to lookWhile this live-action adaptation retains some of the original animated movie's charm, it is no way near as impactful both artistically and philosophically. While not as visually stunning as the original, this movie still managed to look pretty good nonetheless though. The ending also cliche and not that impressive, which was a letdown and the major reason for the low score.

This is a decent watch for GitS fans, but don't get your hopes too high. GitS Stand Alone Complex is still the pinnacle of the series. I also greatly recommend the original movie over this adaptation.… Expand

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0

egoBorderOct 19, 2020

It feels like the makers produced this film based on a trailer for the original film and then got story notes from a homeless man.

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5

WedhroMay 17, 2020

Set in a future Japan that looks like Hong Kong and has 99% of japanese people substituted by americans and chinese...

Ok, jokes aside this would have been an excellent adaptation of GitS if only the casting wasn't so poor. People, let'sSet in a future Japan that looks like Hong Kong and has 99% of japanese people substituted by americans and chinese...

Ok, jokes aside this would have been an excellent adaptation of GitS if only the casting wasn't so poor. People, let's just admit it: ScarJo can't friggin' do actions movies.
She moves like a hunchbak sack of potatoes wearing iron boots, and can only do that mildly sad frowny face. Where's the charismatic and stoic Major? All the poetry (and there's not much of it) goes wasted on her acting.

Worst part: while in the anime she chose her own destiny and goes on her own terms, in the movie she never has any choice. She's a victim. Character assassination at its best.
And don't get me started on the young, souless Batou, or the useless original character introduced just because the team was too male. Can't unsee Jackie Chan Togura either.

Another sore thumb: the music. Forgettable. It's a crime for a series also known for the fantastic soundtrack. And, of course, no tachikomas because f**k the fans, I guess.

It's really a pity because the rest is pure GitS, even if the story could have been more nuanced and political instead of beating on the usual frankestein trope dead horse.… Expand

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3

djniceyApr 13, 2020

This really is a shell of a movie, the visuals are pretty good but there is no substance, it boring, predictable and extremely cliched.

The film does a really good job of recreating the manga look and feel, although it does blatantly copy aThis really is a shell of a movie, the visuals are pretty good but there is no substance, it boring, predictable and extremely cliched.

The film does a really good job of recreating the manga look and feel, although it does blatantly copy a lot from Bladerunner, thats about as good as it gets though. The dialogue is clumsy, extremely cliched, and overly simplistic. The script is dumbed down and everything is spelled out in clumsy conversations. It starts off quite interesting, but by half way through the movie I completely lost interest in the characters and plot, it was like the actors phoned in their performances and the script writer just gave up trying to make a cohesive and interesting story.

The action scenes were OK but the acting is wooden and unconvincing, I didn't care for the characters or the story so in the end just gave up on it.… Expand

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10

ty92Dec 26, 2019

Great movie. Scarlett Johansson is incredible in one of her best performances. Great sci-fi movie that reminds me of Blade Runner 2049 in some ways. The action scenes are entertaining and gorgeous to look at. The story is also strong here andGreat movie. Scarlett Johansson is incredible in one of her best performances. Great sci-fi movie that reminds me of Blade Runner 2049 in some ways. The action scenes are entertaining and gorgeous to look at. The story is also strong here and has a good ending that doesn't disappoint. Its a well done adaptation from the 1995 Ghost in the Shell anime. I recommend watching that first so you can really appreciate what they did here.… Expand

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9

DiptanshuNov 5, 2019

scarlett stole the screen!Great cinematography loved the backgrounds it really felt like a cybercity that we want to live!

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9

RRomeiroAug 20, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great movie, it is underrated.
The Hollywood trends undermined this film giving it bad reviews, do not listen to them, just watch the movie and enjoy.… Expand

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1

Ikereviews1Jul 19, 2019

This movie makes no sense the plot is boring and confusing. The characters are not that great. Overall this film in summary was a unlikable mess. Also this movie strays away from the original magna which does not help at all

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10

SkerletJul 15, 2019

One of my favorite future robotic movies. Scarlett Johansson is lookin real fine.

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10

JackR86Jun 29, 2019

I loved the original anime version of Ghost in the Shell from many years ago now, and was not expecting much from the live action version (especially after reading some of the negative reviews here), but after rolling the dice on the 4KI loved the original anime version of Ghost in the Shell from many years ago now, and was not expecting much from the live action version (especially after reading some of the negative reviews here), but after rolling the dice on the 4K Bluray disc version, I ended up being pleasantly surprised. Great action scenes, interesting cyberpunk story, with absolutely incredible 4K visuals and sound effects. Watched on a 4K LG OLED TV C7 65" with LG UBK90 4K Bluray player.… Expand

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5

miccaelDec 22, 2018

actors - great.
cyberpunk universe - not so great, a lot of things are unexplained. too much money spent on things like CGI, or looks great but movie is not only what is shown, it is about the story.
Villain(s) were ... not great, ended upactors - great.
cyberpunk universe - not so great, a lot of things are unexplained. too much money spent on things like CGI, or looks great but movie is not only what is shown, it is about the story.
Villain(s) were ... not great, ended up being too generic.
emotions don't work, dont care about people, maybe because I haven't seen the animation or know anything about the movie, just watching as a movie-goer.… Expand

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8

DominArsenDec 8, 2018

Ghost In The Shell
Ce film est magnifique! c'est filmé avec beaucoup de style ! Pour une rencontre éclectique entre matrix, Terminator, Avatar, Robocop
Je ne rajoute rien tout simplement parce que c'est un bon film qui aura le mérite d'uneGhost In The Shell
Ce film est magnifique! c'est filmé avec beaucoup de style ! Pour une rencontre éclectique entre matrix, Terminator, Avatar, Robocop
Je ne rajoute rien tout simplement parce que c'est un bon film qui aura le mérite d'une excellente soirée.
Seulement j'ai quand même eu du mal avec la posture qu'adopte l'actrice principale (un peux trop Robotique) mais quand on voit l'environnement on est tout à fait capable d'accepter ;)
#Rencontre… Expand

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10

Chingis09Dec 1, 2018

Also movie! Usually Anime adaptations suck. But this one is Neat! Casting is very solid ( just ignore the haters).

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3

eagleeyevikingNov 2, 2018

While "Ghost in the Shell" has fantastic visuals, the film feels cold and lifeless throughout.

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9

MishajonJul 18, 2018

I saw this film with pretty low expectations, and i was aware of the immense love of the original 1995 film of the same name. I saw the original awhile back, and really loved it, so i was definitely worried going into this remake. What aI saw this film with pretty low expectations, and i was aware of the immense love of the original 1995 film of the same name. I saw the original awhile back, and really loved it, so i was definitely worried going into this remake. What a relief to say that the remake is quite good, and its quite good for a number of reasons: firstly...Scarlett Johannson is really good in the title role, she does have this other worldly quality about her which was perfectly suited to the character. Secondly the visuals are astonishing, everything from the world views, the city scapes, the cyber punk stlye was beautifully evoked. And thirdly, i got the sense that this was a film made with love and respect for the original, whilst at the same time, looking ahead and being ambitious enough to be its own movie. I was really impressed by it.… Expand

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9

mijxeroJun 29, 2018

I am surprised by all the lower ratings. I don't remember the anime so I'm not comparing it. This was a well-paced, stylish action film with interesting characters and good performances all around. The setting was really interesting to seeI am surprised by all the lower ratings. I don't remember the anime so I'm not comparing it. This was a well-paced, stylish action film with interesting characters and good performances all around. The setting was really interesting to see as well. I think the only thing I can subtract from it is the high usage of CG which sometimes makes it look like an animated film when they are showing the city etc. It's a shame I put off watching this as long as I did.… Expand

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3

amheretojudgeApr 26, 2018

initiate project 2571..

Ghost In The Shell It is perfect for all the comic fans as the throwbacks to all the sketchy characters, unusual powers and the origin story is depicted in here but in terms of an individual feature it barely givesinitiate project 2571..

Ghost In The Shell

It is perfect for all the comic fans as the throwbacks to all the sketchy characters, unusual powers and the origin story is depicted in here but in terms of an individual feature it barely gives you a lose thread to hold on to it. Rupert Sanders' execution skills are surprisingly good but unfortunately the script didn't have enough material to feed off the audience for more than 100 minutes. Scarlett Johansson seems like a good choice to cast upon on such a role and her effort is appreciative too but despite of revolving the tale completely around her, the script doesn't offer enough range to flaunt her skills on screen. Ghost In The Shell has a decent background score, amazing visual effects and stunning make-up artist behind it but addition to that it doesn't have anything fresh in terms of plotline or even action sequences which is usually essential in such features that relies a lot upon such stuff.… Expand

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5

The3AcademySinsMar 31, 2018

Ghost in the Shell had a ton of potential. Odd casting choices aside, the film is just kind of a let down. The plot really peters out by the halfway point of the movie. An interesting premise with good source material and good art directionGhost in the Shell had a ton of potential. Odd casting choices aside, the film is just kind of a let down. The plot really peters out by the halfway point of the movie. An interesting premise with good source material and good art direction is turned into an almost unwatchable mess. Scarlett Johansson to her credit does give a solid performance, but the world around her and the situation she's in never seem to match tonally. It's not even all that revolutionary of a sci-fi film. I would say stick to the anime or manga.… Expand

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6

wesker2012Mar 1, 2018

This movie captures the visual essence of the anime expertly and brings it to the big screen. Unfortunately, it turns the anime's thought-provoking content into an extremely simple, bland, and predictable plot/storyline. What we end up withThis movie captures the visual essence of the anime expertly and brings it to the big screen. Unfortunately, it turns the anime's thought-provoking content into an extremely simple, bland, and predictable plot/storyline. What we end up with is a generic, run of the mill sci fi action movie with cool visuals.… Expand

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7

caf2042Mar 1, 2018

Ghost in The Shell is directed by Rupert Sander and is the remake of the classic anime. The film has a cool, Blade Runner-esq art style. The story is weak, but the visuals make up for it.

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5

LeZeeFeb 4, 2018

Too late to come out to impress its fans!

It was not my most anticipated film of the year. Like usual for any film, I just wanted to see it and enjoy it. The film was fine, but that does not mean so good. From the visuals to theToo late to come out to impress its fans!

It was not my most anticipated film of the year. Like usual for any film, I just wanted to see it and enjoy it. The film was fine, but that does not mean so good. From the visuals to the performances, it sounded great. But the story wasn't. When the original concept was created nearly 30 years back, it fascinated people for being something new and powerful. But for the current world, for the current generation, it is just an ordinary sci-fi. All I say is it just came out at least 15 years late. So the 90s kids would have loved it!

The storyline was nothing, but a self-discovery of a half human, half machine. This has been the plot of hundreds of robot films. But it's just differently told. One of only kind, a human brain was saved after the severe accident and given an artificial body. Now she's known as Major fights the crime. But some day later, she's haunted by glitches in her vision which directly connected to her past that she does not remember. The rest of the film was finding the truth and other consequences, before it all ends.

Visual effects were the only advantage for this film to come out in the present era. The rest of the film was simply okayish. I don't know what the original source fans say about it, but it is a one time watchable film. Otherwise, there are plenty of similar good films, like this is nothing much different than 'Robocop'. Or the recent TV series 'Westworld'. Scarlett Johansson could become a reason for some people to peek into it. The writing and direction were average. Watch and forget kind of film.

5/10… Expand

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7

WorldofLuckyFeb 3, 2018

Better than expected when I don't take into account the white washing, although I was still a little disappointed. I would see the sequel because this is one of my genres.

The movie itself really isn't trend setting in this current day andBetter than expected when I don't take into account the white washing, although I was still a little disappointed. I would see the sequel because this is one of my genres.

The movie itself really isn't trend setting in this current day and age. I suspect the is a weird result of its original anime being so influential. Twenty plus years ago when it came out it was a relatively unusual, groundbreaking event, influencing such seminal works as The Matrix. The Matrix and other movies then in turn, influenced other movies making the tropes from the original GitS cliche.

The whole concept of exploring what makes you human really had nothing new in this movie that you couldn't see in a dozen other movies that handled it a bit better.

That being said, Scarlett Johansson did a good job as the Major. I felt she did convey the spirit behind the character, but unfortunately not enough to raise the move above "just ok". I was especially pleased with Bataou and how he was portrayed, but once again they didn't give him a big enough part to do much more than give some interest. The rest of the characters were just blips in the movie.

Now we get to the white washing. This clouded my opinion of the movie the whole time. The movie could have been done with any Japanese actress and I probably would have liked the movie better. Once again not because SJ did bad, but because the knowledge of the white washing left a bad taste in my mouth. I guess as I get older, the harder it is to look past stuff like that.

The movie did try to give a partial explanation of a white actress playing a Japanese character late in the movie, but it was less of any sort of in depth story idea, and rather something pieced in to explain why the major has a white body and not a Japanese body. Basically it was a reason they could use on why they went with SJ rather than it being a real plot point.

The good: Decent sci-fi, nice choreography, and an ok story.

The bad: White washing with a bit trope thrown in.… Expand

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1

BFMJan 24, 2018

This wasn't very good on any level.
The CGI is bad, the makeup is bad (you can see where it transitions to the actor's real bodies), the cinematography is generic, the casting and acting is as bad as it can get,
there are no interesting linesThis wasn't very good on any level.
The CGI is bad, the makeup is bad (you can see where it transitions to the actor's real bodies), the cinematography is generic, the casting and acting is as bad as it can get,
there are no interesting lines said, the action scenes make you feel sleepy, as you have seen everything before (mostly in the Matrix - just that it was 20 times better in that),
and the music is ... you might as well just open a window - chances are you get the same amount of rhythm and melody.

Also why is everyone in Japan white and talking English?
Are they afraid that we, the stupid audience won't be able to "tell them apart" and are too lazy to read some subtitles?

Everybody involved, please stop making movies - you neither have talent, nor creative vision. YOU are the real robots with this movie.… Expand

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6

BrianMcCriticJan 14, 2018

As someone who has never seen the original anime, the things I appreciated about this film was the look and characters. The problem comes with the story as it drags at times and is never completely as captivating as it seems to be. B-

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6

eva3si0nJan 13, 2018

I didn't watch the orinalny animated film and the manga especially. At all not the fan of the Japanese culture, I don't understand. It was interesting to me Ghost in the Shell was only because it is the real cyberpunk who is guided by theI didn't watch the orinalny animated film and the manga especially. At all not the fan of the Japanese culture, I don't understand. It was interesting to me Ghost in the Shell was only because it is the real cyberpunk who is guided by the reference. And the movie has caused full disappointment. Or picturized badly, or it is the Japanese style. But the same Blade Runner 2049 looks a cut above. In Ghost in the Shell characters don't manage to reveal, history too trivial and boring. The world around is registered not up to the end. A lot of things stay behind scenes. It is a pity that the movie was such mediocre cyberpunk, even the fine game Scarlett Johansson hasn't saved.… Expand

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10

HoboboDec 28, 2017

I liked it. Stayed true to the anime with the amount of time screen time given. I hope Hollywood directors use this film as a guide of how to adapt an anime to film. And look at other movies like DBZ on how not to adapt an anime to film. II liked it. Stayed true to the anime with the amount of time screen time given. I hope Hollywood directors use this film as a guide of how to adapt an anime to film. And look at other movies like DBZ on how not to adapt an anime to film. I feel a lot of criticism comes from people offended that Major is played by a white actress. A Youtuber went around Japan asking people what they think and every Japanese person interviewed didn't care. A lot of them were actually stoked on who they chose to play Major. It really doesn't effect the quality of the film in any way.… Expand

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1

Chiscokid88Dec 22, 2017

A huge misrepresentation of the character. Scarlet Johansson has no idea what the character was meant to represent. One of the worst films of 2017.

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4

DomgwyDec 20, 2017

After a troubled production history and amid a storm of controversy and cries of ‘whitewashing’ 2017 has finally delivered a live action adaptation of the iconic 1995 anime.

In taking on the beloved sci-fi property the filmmakers had tooAfter a troubled production history and amid a storm of controversy and cries of ‘whitewashing’ 2017 has finally delivered a live action adaptation of the iconic 1995 anime.

In taking on the beloved sci-fi property the filmmakers had too choices. Either use the framework and themes of the original material to create a bold new vision of Ghost in the Shell in a post-Matrix, post-Westworld marketplace, or do a straight beat-for-beat remake. Unfortunately director Rupert Sanders and his team have attempted to do both and what we are left with is a watered down mess.

Where the 1995 version was very much a movie about high-brow ideas this new version is far more driven by plot and character. The plot however bears little resemblance to the original and is decidedly unoriginal.

As the cyborg cop Major (Scarlett Johansson) delves into her mysterious past it becomes increasingly apparent that we’ve seen this all before (Blade Runner, Ex-Machina and even RoboCop have touched on very similar plot points).

While the story is unoriginal it’s not without its merits. In some instances the new film successfully expands on the decidedly one dimensional characters of the original anime (Pilou Asbæk’s Batou is a particular highlight). The very nature of live action brings renewed humanity to the characters and there are a number of genuinely well acted scenes, no one is disputing that Scarlett Johansson is a good actress.

Every time the new elements of the story start to become remotely engaging though the film digresses into slavishly recreated versions of memorable scenes from the original animation (Major’s swimming scene, the garbage truck chase) regardless of whether they fit into a coherent structure or not.

Both versions of Ghost in the Shell have their strengths and weakness. While the original is a deep and visually engaging reflection on the advance of technology and the concept of the singularity, it often suffers from a meandering pace and a lack of character development. Equally while the 2017 version gives more backstory to the characters, it has none of the groundbreaking originality of the anime that has allowed it to stand the test of time.

In my view the world of Ghost in the Shell would be best served by TV adaptation from the likes of HBO or Netflix. This would allow the time and budget to expand on the deeper concepts left on the cutting room floor this time around and build strong characters and plot lines. A sci-fi police procedural featuring android cops wouldn’t even be unprecedented, as the underrated and now cancelled Almost Human already touched on the potential of a television show to explore the crimes of the future.

While the 2017 Ghost in the Shell will likely go down as a failure I definitely don’t think we’ve seen the last of the property, especially as the technological concepts of the source material become closer and closer to reality.… Expand

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0

BobersDec 13, 2017

I had high hopes, but it was too shallow.
I dont normaly like Anime, but the original Anime is worth a watch, and in many ways the animation style makes the universe feel just that extra bit more alien

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3

Dragonfly44Nov 28, 2017

Did they even try? Besides a decent performance by Scarlett Johansson, this movie was just bad. The CGI wasn’t even that great. This movie was by far one of the worst adaptations I’ve seen in a while.

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6

muzmuzSep 23, 2017

Honestly expecting something a bit better due to Pilou Asbæk and Scarlett Johannson on the roster; but Ghost in the Shell failed to deliver with its lack of depth and unexciting story in spite of the redeeming characteristics present.

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7

sonic1340Sep 22, 2017

It's pretty good nothing as good as the original but as a film it isn't bad at all. I would recommend it to people who like cyberpunk films. Or to people who need a popcorn flick.

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8

HealingToolbox1Sep 16, 2017

Review title: Team Machine vs. Team Human 101 for younger generations

I read a bunch of the reviews here. I saw, liked and was confused by the 1995 anime classic. I think Johanson was inevitable AND an Asian actress would have beenReview title: Team Machine vs. Team Human 101 for younger generations

I read a bunch of the reviews here. I saw, liked and was confused by the 1995 anime classic. I think Johanson was inevitable AND an Asian actress would have been preferable (the Asian mom in the film is wonderfully refreshing; why not the lead?).

I'm still amazed by how many film critics lack the integrity to criticize without coming up with improvements or solutions to the deficiencies they perceive. One of very few ethical ways to review a film in words is to take teh view, "If I were the scriptwriter or in charge of the writers room, what would I have done differently?"

The movie made about 1/4 of its money in China. Especially if these themes are new to Chinese audiences, I think this is a good thing. For the rest of us, one reviewer suggested the sights in Ghost are tediously unfamilar. This rings true for me too. Why are there so many hero shots of the gaudy 3D hologram ads? Is this the point of the film? The future is simply--ugly?

Another reviewer describes the script as a clotheslines for action scenes to be hung on like wet laundry. I find this striking and accurate. It applies to many films. It's perhaps the perfect structural metaphor for a large fraction of all commerical action movie scripts--asking no more complex question than, "What are the opening grosses?"

The "ghost" of the original Bladerunner is apparent, as many reviewers note. This leads into how I would write Ghost in the Shell 2: Identify the conflict of values you wish to target (individuality of the human soul, justice as a choice souls can make... vs. Team Machine, all the forces making humans more machine like and un-feeling). Then imagine how to SHOW not tell this conflict in visual terms. Perhaps even with this structural clarity, it's still challenging to beat or go beyond the script accomplishments of the first Blade Runner movie.… Expand

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4

HTGamerSep 10, 2017

I never knew of the Ghost in the Shell anime until the movie was announced, so my review is from the point of view of a non-fan.

This movie had generated controversy even before it screened thanks to SJW-style accusations in the US media ofI never knew of the Ghost in the Shell anime until the movie was announced, so my review is from the point of view of a non-fan.

This movie had generated controversy even before it screened thanks to SJW-style accusations in the US media of a white actress (Scarlett Johansson) portraying an Asian character, at a time when actual japanese people didn't even mind that and weren't offended. That says it all about the SJW BS.

Scarlett Johansson (having gained action movie experience from Marvel's MCU as The Black Widow) does her best as the Major and the action sequences are actually great, as well as the overall visuals. But ultimately the movie features a pretty barebones story with a confusing and uninteresting plot, whereas characters don't develop at all. Worst of all, the film just hints at the original anime's deeper themes and philosophies (human augmentation, robotics, cyborgs, ethics, human soul, etc.), but never takes the chance to fully explore them. A missed opportunity, then. Maybe a sequel would have done exactly that, but since the film flopped, this won't happen, because the possibility of a Ghost in the Shell sequel is close to zero.

As a stand-alone film, Ghost in the Shell is not bad, but it is forgettable. As an anime adaptation it also disappoints.… Expand

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5

MattBrady99Sep 3, 2017

"Ghost in the Shell" is probably the most decent adaptation based on anime we got compared to previous attempts. However, as a stand alone film it struggles to be remembered since it's release. For someone who has heard about the anime, but"Ghost in the Shell" is probably the most decent adaptation based on anime we got compared to previous attempts. However, as a stand alone film it struggles to be remembered since it's release. For someone who has heard about the anime, but hasn't seen it, the movie at least did a good job of world building to get me interested.

It's visually good looking with some well executed fight scenes. The villain surprisingly wasn't anywhere near generic or boring. Scarlett Johansson did a decent job, despite feeling a bit missed cast. She honestly did better in "Her" as a robot.

Putting the controversy aside, it's a decent film with a lot of things going for it. It's not going to stick in my memory by the end of the week, but at least I watch to judge for myself, not like some.… Expand

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6

shepard75Sep 2, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A little bit disapointing, regarding the way of the kind of the story telling (like driving a car with activated hand brake). Although Scarlett does a great job and shows a super performance, like i'm used from her. But i'm also used to see better movies with her.… Expand

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6

ozymandias79Aug 25, 2017

This live action version wasn't terrible and I was expecting garbage. The visuals are great but it doesn't handle the deeper themes of the anime very well. Also, ScaJo was a poor casting choice. She's a little bit too knock-kneed to play a cyborg.

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4

SpangleAug 23, 2017

For a film about a brain that gets put into a terrorist fighting robot, Rupert Sanders' Ghost in the Shell sure is dull and conventional. Blowing the budget on special effects and a beautiful score, Ghost in the Shell apparently could notFor a film about a brain that gets put into a terrorist fighting robot, Rupert Sanders' Ghost in the Shell sure is dull and conventional. Blowing the budget on special effects and a beautiful score, Ghost in the Shell apparently could not spare a dime for an overhauled script that was not so pale, cliche, and run-of-the-mill. A classic tale of a dedicated-to-the-law hero who slowly discovers that everything they thought was true is not true, the bad guy is actually good, and those helping them are actually the bad ones, Ghost in the Shell feels impeccably shallow, forgettable, and shockingly boring. While a visual splendor at every turn, Ghost in the Shell's success is skin deep with no beating heart to keep its blood pumping and no charm to be found whatsoever in this science fiction action film.

As I have never watched the anime or manga or whatever the film is based on, I came into this one without any pre-conceived notion as to what it should look and feel like. Yet, I nonetheless came away wholly underwhelmed. Horrifically edited, chopped up, and dumped at about 90 minutes long, Ghost in the Shell is a film that hints at many different topics, but is never actually given a chance to explore them. As she is a woman killed by a malevolent organization and then used by that organization to advance their cause in the body of a robot, the film could have a lot of things to say about identity, politics, and be used as a critique of governmental control of a country. Yet, none of these are given any measure of depth. Instead, the lazy and nonsensical writing of the plot leaves these items as backdrops to beautiful effects, forgetting to actually provide the film with any measure of depth in its story. Comfortable being a passable and forgettable shoot 'em up action flick with cliches throughout, Ghost in the Shell feels as though it is a studio product built to suppress the interesting ideas clearly envisioned in the source material in favor of making it more commercially viable. By the end, it is clear that this is not Ghost in the Shell, but rather something inspired by it that entirely misses the point of its source material. It is a live-action remake without heart or soul that feels as though it is nothing more than an ill-advised cash grab attempt.

The aforementioned issues with the editing are really what waylays this film. Much like 2016’s Suicide Squad, there a lot of interesting ideas and themes that get tossed at the wall in Ghost in the Shell. However, very little actually winds up sticking. Instead, it gets lost in a film that feels chopped up and wholly misguided. At a tight 90 minutes, Ghost in the Shell could have been a cohesive and smart action science fiction film. Unfortunately, at a loose 90 minutes, Ghost in the Shell is a longer film crammed into a shorter running time that still tries to accomplish all of the same goals and messaging as a longer film. Thus, Ghost in the Shell is one of those films that tries to do too much in a short timeframe, never giving any of it the proper depth. This is truly exemplified when the film finally jumps into the plotting in the second half. Speeding through without trying to remain a cohesive piece, Ghost in the Shell has to resort to having characters just come out and explain things that would be shown or revealed in a different fashion in other, better films. Instead, here, everybody seems willing to just spill the beans and say exactly what the mysterious project that created Major and others was really all about. After years of covering it all up, it is amazing what the realization that the film is about to end can do to a character’s motivation to explain what happened. In stark contrast, the first half takes its time and really tries to pace itself before everything just hits the fan in the second half with the film stumbling out of control, desperately trying to end in time while covering as much ground as possible. Ghost in the Shell is a film that, when it ends, you wonder where the rest of the movie went.

The film’s storyline really does not do the film’s strengths any justice either whatsoever. Largely about a new program that puts human brains into robot bodies to make warriors, Ghost in the Shell ditches its heady ideas about augmentation and then blending of human with mechanical in favor of becoming just another film about cover-ups. On the surface, it could be interesting with the mysterious Kuze (Michael Pitt) infecting robots and using them to kill the scientists on some highly secretive project. A compelling character given a strong rendition by Pitt, Kuze winds up just being a character with a vengeance that is being hunted by the people who are actually evil, who use the unwitting Major to do their bidding. Revealing he is actually good and there to help Major, only to die seconds later, Ghost in the Shell is a lazily written and unimaginative film with a derivative and dull plot.… Expand

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0

LifesabummerAug 15, 2017

I joined this site just for this review. I had to comment on the absolute turd of a movie this was and anyone that gives it a good review has never seen the original or has no appreciation for it. Meaning you just thought it was a cartoon.I joined this site just for this review. I had to comment on the absolute turd of a movie this was and anyone that gives it a good review has never seen the original or has no appreciation for it. Meaning you just thought it was a cartoon. I had read some poor professional reviews at first and see now that I have seen the the movie that they were spot on. The essence of the movie and its characters were completely lost. The fact that she was american/Caucasian was to me not important as the major was a synthetic being anyway so race wasn't an issue. Everything was lost in translation I guess you could say. Terrible movie even if they did steal a few scenes from the original it was completely lost otherwise. Obviously my curiosity got the best of me and I rented it and there is six dollars and two hours I will never get back. Shame. The original was ahead of its time and very deep. This shallow turd should have been left on the cutting room floor.… Expand

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3

BroyaxAug 12, 2017

Le miracle n'a pas eu lieu et cette adaptation du manga déjà adapté en plusieurs animes n'a pas pu valider son passage dans la classe supérieure, à savoir le film réel triple A aux multiples millions de dollars.

Sans doute déjà en raison deLe miracle n'a pas eu lieu et cette adaptation du manga déjà adapté en plusieurs animes n'a pas pu valider son passage dans la classe supérieure, à savoir le film réel triple A aux multiples millions de dollars.

Sans doute déjà en raison de son actrice principale dont le salaire a dû je suppose bouffer une bonne partie du budget... alors qu'une simple inconnue payée au smic aurait amplement suffi : regardez les Star Wars Disney par exemple (que des novices dans les rôles principaux !).

Et bien sûr, on peut s'interroger sur le bien-fondé de ce choix : pourquoi Scarlett au juste ? elle est soit mauvaise, soit médiocre, soit passable... mais jamais au niveau (elle redouble sans arrêt, que des mauvaises notes...).

En outre, pourquoi cette "internationalisation" de la distribution avec Scarlett la Blanche américaine qui incarne une héroïne japonaise ? pourquoi dans la Section 9 voyons-nous un homme de couleur et une fille d'origine maghrébine ? que vient faire notre triste Binoche nationale dans cette galère ? et enfin pourquoi Kitano (en patron de la 9, enfin une légitimité !) n'est-il pas doublé ? les autres lui répondent en anglais (lol) -ou en français (mdr)- : ça fait désordre.

Sinon, gros problèmes de scénario avec ce désir de tout expliquer et tout mettre à plat, avec tout un lot d'explications et de justifications oiseuses et décevantes en ce qui concerne "Motoko" ; idem pour le "Marionnettiste" (incarné par le cave Michael Pitt) ou ce qui s'apparente très vaguement à l'intrigante personnalité du manga et du premier anime, très édulcoré ici en une sorte de version "pour les nuls".

Pour quelqu'un qui n'a pas vu les animes, qui n'a lu aucun manga, ce Ghost est peut-être un film de SF honnête mais pour les autres, cela est un mélange parfaitement déshonorant de plusieurs éléments des GITS, un mélange passé à la moulinette commerciale hollywoodienne et totalement dénaturé. Même Batou sonne faux et incroyablement ridicule !

Il reste une réalisation de bon aloi et de jolis effets spéciaux et même... une musique plutôt correcte. Mais bon sang, qu'on est loin de l'esprit, du "ghost" de Ghost in the Shell !… Expand

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7

daviddelnorte23Aug 8, 2017

La promo de esta película cuando se estrenó me recuerda a una buena época mía, y seguramente vaya a recordar más el cartel que la propia película. Un film que está bien, pero es que me estaba recordando a Blade runner, la cual he visto muyLa promo de esta película cuando se estrenó me recuerda a una buena época mía, y seguramente vaya a recordar más el cartel que la propia película. Un film que está bien, pero es que me estaba recordando a Blade runner, la cual he visto muy recientemente. La sensación de esto ya lo he visto, propició que la película quedara a mis ojos durante todo el metraje en un simple espectáculo visual y de entretenimiento, más que de intentar sacar alguna conclusión de lo que te están contando. Aún así es una película divertida y competente dentro de su género y pretensiones. Se nota que es una adaptación de manga japonés, factor que no me agrada,y quizá eso también haga que inconscientemente la viera con menos "gusto".… Expand

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7

iCronicAug 7, 2017

I didn't see the original but the trailer was insane so I was hyped. Certainly not the masterpiece I hoped for. Some parts felt clunky and unpolished, a handful of CGI scenes were straight up bad, especially during the end fight. Other scenesI didn't see the original but the trailer was insane so I was hyped. Certainly not the masterpiece I hoped for. Some parts felt clunky and unpolished, a handful of CGI scenes were straight up bad, especially during the end fight. Other scenes were amazing, the rare soundtrack was great and overall I liked Ghost in the Shell… Expand

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8

Dr4gonkiller96Jul 12, 2017

I haven't seen the original 3 anime movies or the Anime show itself, but from what i have seen in small snippets or the start of the first movie, there is a lot of stuff in this Live Action film that captures the original source perfectly,I haven't seen the original 3 anime movies or the Anime show itself, but from what i have seen in small snippets or the start of the first movie, there is a lot of stuff in this Live Action film that captures the original source perfectly, from the way Major looks, to the incredible sound effects and Soundtrack. The story is easy to follow and there is no plot holes as most of the stuff is scratching your head until later when it finally makes sense with them filling the gaps from earlier on. there is a lot of cultural diversity in this, and it being set in a far future Japan, the major (hehe) of the cast and civilians are Japanese, which is was a good choice. they made Scarlet Johannson Major because she looks the part, and what i can remember of the original source, she was meant to be Caucasian, which she is. the action is good, and the invisible fight scenes were spot on. it could be better, but at least it wasn't utter **** well worth the watch, as it does the fan service justice. some people who watched the originals might seem it boring, because most of the time when this happens, is because they have seen it already in the originals, and well that is normal for anything, not that its bad, just that they expected it. so for all the people whitewashing the films, if the Japanese like it and dont mind why the **** would you care, it is based off a japanese anime for god sake, and i think the origin of the franchise would know if the movie was good or not… Expand

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10

DioGrenAug 3, 2017

Good, this film better last transformers.

Atmosfere + Have Soul + Good music Clint Mansell & Lorne Balfe - Shelling Sequence - Ghost in the Shell Soundtrack (2017) and GitS (2017) OST - 30 - Spider Tank (pliz add to osts music - all ost, itsGood, this film better last transformers.

Atmosfere + Have Soul + Good music Clint Mansell & Lorne Balfe - Shelling Sequence - Ghost in the Shell Soundtrack (2017)
and GitS (2017) OST - 30 - Spider Tank (pliz add to osts music - all ost, its 2017 in the window)… Expand

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3

gallagosJul 23, 2017

I created an account just so I could give this movie a rating. As a movie based on the Shell universe, 3/10. As a stand alone, 4/10, the only saving grace is it's visuals. Any homage is used poorly, and the characters lack the depth theI created an account just so I could give this movie a rating. As a movie based on the Shell universe, 3/10. As a stand alone, 4/10, the only saving grace is it's visuals. Any homage is used poorly, and the characters lack the depth the original creations. This is a true disappointment.… Expand

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2

HurleyJul 20, 2017

Just watched 2017 Ghost in the Shell. I had very low expectations and I can categorically state my going in expectations were not even approached. It seemed like a vehicle for some ok effects with no plot, no real atmosphere (seriously anJust watched 2017 Ghost in the Shell. I had very low expectations and I can categorically state my going in expectations were not even approached. It seemed like a vehicle for some ok effects with no plot, no real atmosphere (seriously an effectively empty city with no garbage & dirt?), lots of flaws (people smoking in a clean room environment), etc.

All in all a very bad Hollywood attempt at an effects movies trying to be a new blade runner style vehicle set in an Asian city (ostensibly in Japan) with everything being western includes room sizes, beer can sizes and clothes).

The time spent watching the movie is some time I could have done something much more useful like trimming my nose hairs!!… Expand

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9

Kissxsis805Jul 15, 2017

This a bit more than a review but more of a oversight. I Thought the movie was great. I don't understand how people can think the movie is whitewashed. The Major was originally Japanese before her accident, which the movie even addressed. TheThis a bit more than a review but more of a oversight. I Thought the movie was great. I don't understand how people can think the movie is whitewashed. The Major was originally Japanese before her accident, which the movie even addressed. The Major chose her shell and her shell is caucasian. I'm very sorry to tell the people who know nothing about GITS, but her shell is actually white... I thought the plot was great and even the scenes recreated from the anime were great. The acting was great as well. The Major does lack emotion in the Anime and that is also portrayed a lot in the movie. The original creator was on board with the adaptation and even Scarlett as the lead role. It would have been against the source material if a Japanese actor played as her shell. Either way, the movie was great. The Japanese people loved it so why can't all these Americans??? My advice is go watch the movie yourself and DON'T LET ANYBODY change your opinion about it and don't be a follower like everyone else who most likely haven't even watched the originals or read it.… Expand

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6

Voodoo123Jul 15, 2017

This big production delivers great visuals and solid performances with an engaging soundscape makes for good sci-fi thriller. As a huge fan of the anime I was disappointed this live adaption drops the philosophical/political story complexityThis big production delivers great visuals and solid performances with an engaging soundscape makes for good sci-fi thriller. As a huge fan of the anime I was disappointed this live adaption drops the philosophical/political story complexity and texture that gave the original film its unique flavour. Where technology was used like an interesting backdrop for the story it now becomes the centre frame of the story almost like a retelling of robocop using a future japan as a template to tell that story again.
Nonetheless it serves as an entertaining and engaging take on the franchise which is enjoyable to watch.… Expand

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7

TalbisJul 11, 2017

This is one amazing looking movie here and despite controversy around casting of Scarlett Johansson in the main role, it catches the eye with visuals, while Johansson gives a stellar performance. It is however impossible to review this filmThis is one amazing looking movie here and despite controversy around casting of Scarlett Johansson in the main role, it catches the eye with visuals, while Johansson gives a stellar performance. It is however impossible to review this film and not look at Masamune Shirow's original work or it's 1995 masterful adaptation by the legend - Mamoru Oshii. Both, the original and 2017 live action movie, take a look at themes of identity, humanity and the meaning of being human. In a world of cybernetic enhancements, where does the human end and the machine start? This version however takes a different approach to the topic, more straightforward and less philosophical, seemingly more "dumbed down" version... and yet it still gets the point across. Some plot changes were disappointing and for some reason the Major seems to be more brutal and bloodthirsty in the Hollywood adaptation. Also the movie focuses more on her past, a plot point that doesn't exist in the original, as there Major knows exactly where she comes from only beginning to question her humanity after meeting the Puppet Master - a character that was turned from the original AI starting to evolve beyond its programming into a living being, to Kuze, a highly enhanced human. Whereas the original work questions the humanity itself, this movie wants to ponder the theme of Frankenstein - the creation killing its creator, this plot point in a rather silly and uninspired way, cliché, (a standard for american movie makers), to create a conflict.Some scenes are recreated from the 1995 movie here and they're a joy to watch, a feast for your eyes! Overall, this isn't all that bad, however while the original and Oshii's adaptation left me wondering for weeks, this movie is rather forgettable, saved only by the amazing cast, especially Scarlett Johansson, and visuals. Give it a watch, but for the real masterpiece, look for the 1995 version.… Expand

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5

grimsfieldJul 9, 2017

Almost nothing like the anime. If you like the anime, you probably won't like this film. Its massively whitewashed and the plot is dumbed down. Beyond that, the plot barely resembles the original. That said, if you haven't seen the originalAlmost nothing like the anime. If you like the anime, you probably won't like this film. Its massively whitewashed and the plot is dumbed down. Beyond that, the plot barely resembles the original. That said, if you haven't seen the original anime or read the manga, you might like this movie. And I can definitely see why a lot of people would. However, being a huge fan of the anime myself, I cannot get beyond all the things that are wrong with this movie in its adaptation. I'm giving the movie a 5 because of that and because I can understand how people who haven't seen the anime may find this movie appealing.… Expand

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8

EludiumQ36Jul 8, 2017

Look, this is obviously a polarizing love/hate type of film. I know the animated film and series well and though this effort doesn't match them, it's decent enough. The cinematics could carry the film alone, they're great. The storyline wasLook, this is obviously a polarizing love/hate type of film. I know the animated film and series well and though this effort doesn't match them, it's decent enough. The cinematics could carry the film alone, they're great. The storyline was intriguing but I'm with the crowd that has issues with the casting. Scarlett was WAY wrong for the role but they needed a marquee name to bring her followers. There were also some editing choices that I question but that's a little too much in the weeds. I don't rate this as a waste. It was decent enough and wouldn't mind it anchoring a series of them.… Expand

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1

brentwshelton1Jul 8, 2017

Visuals 10...all else 0. As I never read the material this movie was adapted from I was fairly confused for the first hour until I turned it off...because....I just didnt care how it ended. confusing yet undeveloped plot, background babbleVisuals 10...all else 0. As I never read the material this movie was adapted from I was fairly confused for the first hour until I turned it off...because....I just didnt care how it ended. confusing yet undeveloped plot, background babble about what it means to be human, evil, corporations, way too few action scenes, a big yawn all around.… Expand

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4

ScienceAdvisorJul 6, 2017

Pure cinematics over story, form over entertainment. Compared to the 1996 animated materpiece, this was disappointing in every way, especially the director's mis-management of Johansson's character (Major). Shallow, trope-filled, andPure cinematics over story, form over entertainment. Compared to the 1996 animated materpiece, this was disappointing in every way, especially the director's mis-management of Johansson's character (Major). Shallow, trope-filled, and utterly lifeless.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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5

FromKangaJun 25, 2017

This movie was really...meh
I wasn't the greatest fan of the original anime movie, I didn't hate it but it just wasn't really my thing so I had no expectations for this movie.
Visually, this film is beautiful and it has style to it, I admitThis movie was really...meh
I wasn't the greatest fan of the original anime movie, I didn't hate it but it just wasn't really my thing so I had no expectations for this movie.

Visually, this film is beautiful and it has style to it, I admit that the anime was incredible to look at and you can tell that the director wanted to stay true to the visual style the anime had, you can tell that there was a lot of effort put into this film.

As for the story...it's weak, I can tell what they were trying to do, they tried to give more emotion in the story which I can appreciate, but it stills ends up being bland and forgettable because the movie doesn't spend a lot of time developping the characters.

And that's the movie's biggest problem, the characters, they were forgettable and boring, they tried to give us an emotional story with our main character but it fails because the movie doesn't give a reason why we should like her, why we should feel invested in her story, I get she's a character who can't have feelings because she is kind of a robot but it still makes an unlikable main character, but the worst character was the real villain, he was one of the worst villains I've seen in a long time.
I do want to defend this movie particulary on the "white washing" complaint, I feel like people overeact for nothing, it's a stupid complaint, it's a hollywood movie, people need to understand that Holywood will always pick the most popular actors or actresses not because they are racist, it's because they think that the movie will do better at the box-office.

There was a lot of effort put into this film which I can appreciate, but it just didn't succeed in deliviring a good story and likable characters, it's not as bad as people say it is, but it wasn't anything special.… Expand

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5

ron1971Jun 24, 2017

Considering the character look of the Ghost in the Shell animation I think it would have been better if they had gotten someone more generic lookin instead of Scarlet Johansson: she has a very unique distinct look that for me doesnt work.Considering the character look of the Ghost in the Shell animation I think it would have been better if they had gotten someone more generic lookin instead of Scarlet Johansson: she has a very unique distinct look that for me doesnt work. From what I have seen the acting of her is pretty solid but still she really doesnt look at all as the character in the animation even with the black hair the way they have modelled it in accordance with the animation character. In fact I dont even think the hairstyle fits with her face to be honest. Also her voice is too low. Furthermore in the animation she was externally a female but in the movie I dont know the scenes where you would see that she has some kind of suit covering the body or that is the body. The whole idea of a cyborg is to fool people into believing that she is a real human being and then externally it has to look like a normal human body. I saw 10 cloverfield lane and the actress in that movie Mary Elizabeth Winstead would way better fit the looks for the main character, sorry Scarlett. In addition the movie: it looks too over the top bombarding us with all these visuals so we dont even recognise it as taking place in our world. And in conclusion I think they should have left the original alone and instead of basically kind of having the same story, made a new movie from scratch like what has happened with stand alone complex. Or they should have made it into a sequel.… Expand

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3

BackbiteJun 12, 2017

This Ghost in the Shell mashed together old plot-points from the series in a jarring way. Had this movie attempted to use an entirely original plot it would've been way better. But plot aside, as an action movie or a movie in the cyberpunkThis Ghost in the Shell mashed together old plot-points from the series in a jarring way. Had this movie attempted to use an entirely original plot it would've been way better. But plot aside, as an action movie or a movie in the cyberpunk genre in general it does well.… Expand

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8

PipeCJun 8, 2017

Eyes Wide Open, Deaf Ears

"Ghost in the Shell" has live-action adaptation thanks to American feature film production and distribution studio, Paramount Pictures. The feature film is the second work by director Rupert Sanders, and the thirdEyes Wide Open, Deaf Ears

"Ghost in the Shell" has live-action adaptation thanks to American feature film production and distribution studio, Paramount Pictures. The feature film is the second work by director Rupert Sanders, and the third Johansson's performance as the heroine, after her brilliant job in "Lucy" and vigorous saga Marvel's "Avengers".

At a glance, everyone infers which aspect takes all the praises. Visual effects and production design carry out fully what they were proposing, arousing a thorough immersion in that futuristic city of a reality that is not too far away, which drinks respectfully from sci-fi masterpieces as Ridley Scott's "Blade Runner" and Steven Spielberg's "Minority Report". Transferring the majority of wonders of the cyberpunk book to live action was a total insanity, considering that they should overcome two major hindrances: The first one is the difficulty that surrounds manufacture of every notion of the world on which it is based, work elaborated with mastery by artistic directors, who spent whole months handcrafting many of the elements which are seen on screen, improving their meritorious work; and the second one is to free itself from American mania about maximizing even the dullest feature, losing the basic elements of the main culture. If a cinematographic production was to be regarded a masterpiece by the glory of its pictures, Paramount's work would obtain the award without delay; it's a delectation to be carried away by the gorgeous skill of the filmmaker: the visual section.

Considering that the story has the signatures of three dissonant writers, clearly, the plot, based on the comic of Masamune Shirow, was going to be saturated with a complex of different proposals and looks, with resolutions don't maintain a common term. Although screenwriters trio were very respectful by extracting the vital skeleton of the manga and the films, they palliate metaphysical burden, perhaps it wasn't decided lightly, since they had to exhibit in a flexible, congenial and seductive way a work, which is the mother for many of the existential audiovisual productions of today ("Ex Machina" "Her" or "Westworld"), in other words, what's adapt an original idea? Modernize or preserve the name of an ontological sci- fi classic? This implies that the film doesn't get the same emotional and reflective blow as 1995 movie, opting to present minimal background in the prologue, thoughtful instants where Johansson possibly broods what and/or who is and that's the whole ideological implanted environment, one more incident in which Hollywood replaces depth narrative by weapons and flagrant impressions pleasing the eye , but not to the mind, of course, a less emphatic case, but in the end, one more case, and I don't blame them, because the real guilty of that awful trend is audience, who believe that cinema is a temporary amusement, something "entertaining", something transitory.

As one of the contemporary films with more remuneration repercussions by controversial "whitewashing", we can determine (again) it's completely an unfounded affirmation. Perhaps the most vehement fans want the adaptation to be coupled with their demands and fantasies, but with the American film monster in the boss role, it was to be expected that a superstar plays the leading role. An interesting performance made by "Under the Skin" actress as Major, she's who allows the audience to follow the story, but to a certain extent, since Johansson's charming performance as a cyborg-woman doesn't get to break the chains of well-known resolutions.

"Ghost in the Shell" is wounded by nostalgia for the original movie, despite this, rating it as an independent product, is a worthy adaptation; it rebuilds some things around here, replicates identically another thing over there, however, absurdly, is another feature film that Hollywood makes fairly well. This story of origins would be the direct access to the profitable and vigorous franchise that Scarlett Johansson has been looking for and that Marvel has been unwilling to give her, but based on the grossing of the last few days, sadly, it's concluded that the American audience, one of the most fervent film consumers, has literally turned its back on it, and that isn't a good thing. The sexual burden is quietly watered down and the inherently philosophical ghost is quietly destroyed, Rupert Sanders executes a blockbuster that feels a little hollow, which concentrates on presenting magnificently to Major, establishing an enemy with moral grudges and an open ending. However, performances and technical production are high; they manage to introduce in our minds a message: the need for more "Ghost in the Shell". It's unlikely, but if they reconstruct the narrative flaws present in this one in an uncertain sequel, it would clearly be a masterpiece, but at the moment, at least in the visual thing, is already taking enlarge steps to it.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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9

66jdMay 21, 2017

The critics really don't like Sci-Fi movies do they? Unless they are drawn out boring ones.
I have never read or seen any of the original GITS. However with Scarlet Johnston in the lead I already knew I would like this one. Great effects andThe critics really don't like Sci-Fi movies do they? Unless they are drawn out boring ones.
I have never read or seen any of the original GITS. However with Scarlet Johnston in the lead I already knew I would like this one. Great effects and worthy of a visit to the cinema for the big screen experience.… Expand

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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6

GabMegaMay 27, 2017

La pelicula no es mala, Ghost in the Shell, solamente esta, ok.

Se nota que es una película que hicieron para los que desconocen y conocen bien de la obra original, pero aquí toca más cosas de origen del personaje principal con una nuevaLa pelicula no es mala, Ghost in the Shell, solamente esta, ok.

Se nota que es una película que hicieron para los que desconocen y conocen bien de la obra original, pero aquí toca más cosas de origen del personaje principal con una nueva historia, dando referencias a la versión animada.

La cosa que resulta malo aqui es el villano y que la historia llega a un cierto punto, olvidable, excepto en los minutos finales, que resulta importante. No entiendo por que mucha gente la catalogo como mala, quizás sea por que no resulto 100% fiel al contenido original ( mentalidad de mierda) o por que Scarlet Johanson es americana y no japonesa, excusas tontas sacadas de Rotten Tomatos.

Es una pelicula para entretenerse si les gusta la acción y el cyberpunk, y no es la única película que adaptan de una manga reconocido que resulta buena, veanse Old Boy o Al filo del mañana para que vean que esta industria se salva.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

badgerryan19May 19, 2017

Good movie. Fantastic visuals and a well realized cyber-punk feel. I liked the original 1995 movie and I feel like the live action one does a lot of things right and some okay. Scarlett as "The Major" is great get over the white washing thingGood movie. Fantastic visuals and a well realized cyber-punk feel. I liked the original 1995 movie and I feel like the live action one does a lot of things right and some okay. Scarlett as "The Major" is great get over the white washing thing she is great. I love that they took pieces from the original film and put it in here and just revamped and retold it with a bit different twist. I also liked the character Kuze. He brings something that was intriguing. I did think the movie could of gave us a little more , but ultimately I was satisfied.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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10

seventhbeaconMay 17, 2017

GitS was playing at the cheaper theater so I saw that today... and it was... really freaking impressive. Like, top notch, and incredibly faithful to the original OVA!
There was a quote from it that really just, rang true for a number ofGitS was playing at the cheaper theater so I saw that today... and it was... really freaking impressive. Like, top notch, and incredibly faithful to the original OVA!
There was a quote from it that really just, rang true for a number of reasons as well, about the importance of individuality apart from the group. I can't seem to find it with a google search, though, so I'll have to look later once it comes out on Blu Ray.
Anyway, I was expecting mediocre or something in poor taste, but it was a truly impressive, resonating film and just the most gorgeous Cyberpunk spectacle I've seen in ages.
ScarJo was fantastic, and elevated by pitch-perfect filmmaking.
I honestly don't think Blade Runner 2049 is going to come as close to brilliant as this movie was, but I'm still happy for double the Cyberpunk this year!
A+ If there are any flaws to this film, I was too enthralled by the greatness to notice!… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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2

FuturedirectorApr 6, 2017

A flawed, loud and unsatisfying continence-free show of excessive explosions and unbelievable stunts that cannot be saved even by Johanson's terrific interpretation or eye-popping somehow thrilling fighting sequences.

0 of 9 users found this helpful09

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1

SkeptecMay 15, 2017

Scarlett's terrible acting ruined this movie. She always manages to fail at showing non-robotic emotions no matter what role she plays. That said, There were way too many plot holes in this movie. The only thing redeeming it at all isScarlett's terrible acting ruined this movie. She always manages to fail at showing non-robotic emotions no matter what role she plays. That said, There were way too many plot holes in this movie. The only thing redeeming it at all is Scarlett's nice to look at.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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9

chidimeMay 13, 2017

Amazing movie. The CGI was mind-blowing. The storyline was other-worldly. Remained consistent from beginning to end. Rare for action movies nowadays. Loved it and recommend it fully!

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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7

FlexedacornMay 12, 2017

I went into this with mixed emotions, mainly because I wasn’t sure what to expect with director Rupert Sanders. I did see the original anime so I knew the overall plot going into it. I personally found the movie extremely enjoyable andI went into this with mixed emotions, mainly because I wasn’t sure what to expect with director Rupert Sanders. I did see the original anime so I knew the overall plot going into it. I personally found the movie extremely enjoyable and thought they did a great job catching the sci fi ascetic feel of the original anime. The whole white washing controversy was not enough to keep me from seeing it, as my main focus going in was to be entertained. I personally thought they did a great job with the multi-national supporting cast. Scarlett Johansson wasn’t anything special, but was alright all things considered. The best performances came from Batou ,Pilou Asbaek (Denmark) and Aramaki, Takeshi Kitano (Japan).
This movie is not as intellectually gripping as the original anime or even Bladerunner , but is visual stunning and overall well paced.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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6

Nobilis1984May 9, 2017

Criticism to Ghost in the Shell: I do not know him now well or whether I badly should find. He reminds stage manner me strongly of the Anime. But then other scenes are again so lame I the head must shake. The characters are well met in myCriticism to Ghost in the Shell: I do not know him now well or whether I badly should find. He reminds stage manner me strongly of the Anime. But then other scenes are again so lame I the head must shake. The characters are well met in my opinion. I would have wished, nevertheless, a Japanese principal character. At least, has tried to bring a good filming on the canvas Result: Without knowing the Anime it is worthwhile. However, one knows Him one notices this was much more complicated and better.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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10

dajugganautxMay 5, 2017

This movie as freaking awesome. Very interesting story and awesome visuals. I am not a ghost in the shell series or anime fan by any stretch but this movie was enough for me to look into it.

6 of 6 users found this helpful60

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10

alexiosradMay 4, 2017

A great movie, changes made to the plot that makes it more modern in my opinion, less predictable and with a more anthropocentric approach...I liked it more that I did the anime, althought there was no nudity.

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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3

whoever13Apr 30, 2017

All shell, no ghost
Ghost in the Shell is a huge disappointment for anybody looking for smart sci-fi. The plot is cliché, the characters flat and the direction lacks energy throughout. While the set-design and visual effects are indeedAll shell, no ghost
Ghost in the Shell is a huge disappointment for anybody looking for smart sci-fi. The plot is cliché, the characters flat and the direction lacks energy throughout. While the set-design and visual effects are indeed stunning, they are mere rehashes from its source material and other sci-fi classics, most notably Blade Runner. Unfortuantely the director, Rupert Sanders, finds no way to make the retro-futuristic aesthetics of the film relevant to todays audience, nor does he find a universal and timeless quality in it.

What's even more heartbreaking: The film is utterly uninterested in the exploration of any of its source material's fascinating ideas. This becomes painfully obvious in the pseudo-philosophical voice-over.

Even as an action-film, Ghost misses the mark, as the action scenes, while beautifully shot and spectacularly choreographed, somehow fail to thrill or excite. The matter-of-fact professionalism in the characters' behaviour and their over-the-top skills and abilities create a weirdly unthrilling experience.

The performances throughout lack energy and personality and enhance the tedium of the predictable story.

All in all: Rupert Sander's Ghost in the Shell fails to evoke any emotion or thought, which is even more disappointing given its stellar looks and inspired source material.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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5

ChowdahApr 26, 2017

Great visuals. Unfortunately that's about all the praise this movie gets. Incredibly slow paced with a shallow plot. Had a Bladerunner feel to it in the first 30 mins but quickly lost steam. Shame.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

GyerApr 26, 2017

Much better than reviews give it credit for. Forget the crap about whitewashing - Scarlett does a fine job portraying Major, and if like me you had no clue what was going on in the Anime, this live action movie does a much better job ofMuch better than reviews give it credit for. Forget the crap about whitewashing - Scarlett does a fine job portraying Major, and if like me you had no clue what was going on in the Anime, this live action movie does a much better job of explaining everything. Not a great film, but totally worth watching - ignore the critics :D… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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8

Rix397Apr 26, 2017

Scarlett Johansson shines in a visually stunning and action-packed movie that is "Ghost in the Shell" and with good supporting performances by Pilou Asbæk, Michael Pitt & Takeshi Kitano and surprisingly intriguing and layered plot, the movieScarlett Johansson shines in a visually stunning and action-packed movie that is "Ghost in the Shell" and with good supporting performances by Pilou Asbæk, Michael Pitt & Takeshi Kitano and surprisingly intriguing and layered plot, the movie overcomes a few pointless side characters and an underwhelming villain.… Expand

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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7

Darkly_TranquilApr 24, 2017

If you are a fan of the 1995 film, or just like anime or cyberpunk in general, there is a lot to enjoy here, even if its not perfect. The film is visually spectacular with some fantastic production design in sets, costumes, etc., though theIf you are a fan of the 1995 film, or just like anime or cyberpunk in general, there is a lot to enjoy here, even if its not perfect. The film is visually spectacular with some fantastic production design in sets, costumes, etc., though the visual effects are a bit hit and miss, being top notch in some scenes, and kind of cheap in others. The direction is strongest when it copies Mamoru Oshii's film, but is merely serviceable the rest of the time. The acting performances are all solid, though no-one really stands out, and the material doesn't really give anyone much scope to shine. The story is probably the weak point, as it introduces a lot of ideas and concepts from the manga, but just doesn't have the space to really go anywhere with them, so the plot ends up being a fairly basic "who am I?/corporate villainy" story line. Overall GitS is a must for fans of the anime and cyberpunk, and probably worth a shot if you just like scifi in general.… Expand

8 of 8 users found this helpful80

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7

BertoflyingfoxApr 23, 2017

Despite having a few missteps here and there, this was still a fun popcorn flick.

For plotting, I like how they melded the two anime movies into one cohesive story and at a 2hr runtime that didnt overstay its welcome. For the actors, IDespite having a few missteps here and there, this was still a fun popcorn flick.

For plotting, I like how they melded the two anime movies into one cohesive story and at a 2hr runtime that didnt overstay its welcome.

For the actors, I liked all in the cast...except for the actor who played Cutter...he just seemed out of place. I feel that character and the final act could have been replaced with something far more entertaining and fulfilling.

As for the visual effects, it was an absolute treat. Really hope they make an HDR-enhanced UHD of this movie, I would buy a copy ASAP.… Expand

7 of 7 users found this helpful70

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3

Arkl1teApr 22, 2017

The music was great, the visuals were amazing, even Scarlett Johanson from the visual perspective. The rest is **** The writting is **** characters and their scripts are a complete disaster (it felt like the scriptwritter took some randomThe music was great, the visuals were amazing, even Scarlett Johanson from the visual perspective. The rest is **** The writting is **** characters and their scripts are a complete disaster (it felt like the scriptwritter took some random words from the original script and mashed up into an incomplete sentence, leading sometimes into some non-sensical suspense which leads to nothing important afterwards). From the first hour I just wanted to leave, but I held my back hoping the story were raising its quality as time passes... but no, not worth it.

As always, when there's money to make original creations into a new movie, they have all the tools for the visuals, sounds and music, but no brain for a good story, scripting and direction...… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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7

derkonig6Apr 20, 2017

So I never saw anything related to Ghost in the shell.The movie itself looks verry good,I love the vibe that it gives you.As a person who watches anime I can tell that they nailed some charaters verry good like Batou( this characters gave meSo I never saw anything related to Ghost in the shell.The movie itself looks verry good,I love the vibe that it gives you.As a person who watches anime I can tell that they nailed some charaters verry good like Batou( this characters gave me a really animeish vibe). The plot had some weak points but overall 7 is a good rating for this movie… Expand

8 of 8 users found this helpful80

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8

7ShadesOfEffortApr 18, 2017

If you need 2 hours long monologues or static scenes of majestic silence to convince yourself that you are enjoying some kind of high art while watching cartoons about naked robot with boobs, you'd probably better keep rewatching MamoruIf you need 2 hours long monologues or static scenes of majestic silence to convince yourself that you are enjoying some kind of high art while watching cartoons about naked robot with boobs, you'd probably better keep rewatching Mamoru Oshii's GITS and avoid this one at any cost. If you have some problems with robotic body not being asian, black or at least transgender refugee, you'll probably hate it too. People who are seriously allergic to garbage villains should also be cautious.
But if you don't fall under any of these categories, your health is totally fine and you can freely enjoy this delightful cyberpunk action movie. There's not so much of them nowadays. Bato is cool btw.

6 out of 7: magnificent.… Expand

6 of 6 users found this helpful60

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6

GeminesesApr 18, 2017

Bored, maybe the anime movie was great, but this. Visually it was perfect, they remind me of the FFVII maps, and the crew has decent performances, but I do not feel any chemistry between them

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

DariushLApr 15, 2017

Decent movie. Didnt feel like i wasted the ticket money and that's already something for a Hollywood production.
The plot is based on the 1995 OAV(not a spoiler, is clear since the first scenes)with some element picked from some of the standDecent movie. Didnt feel like i wasted the ticket money and that's already something for a Hollywood production.
The plot is based on the 1995 OAV(not a spoiler, is clear since the first scenes)with some element picked from some of the stand alone complex episodes, but there's some characters and situations that have been heavily simplified to make the movie easier to digest for the crowds and much more predictable.
Most of the characters are pretty faithful to the original(Scarlett J. is ok in the Major's role portraiting her cold attitude, Batou is allright too, with that "old brother" behaviour toward the Major), while some are kinda weird(Aramaki lacks some of the ethics he showed in the SAC tv series and Kitano makes it kinda funny to watch, somehow, while Togusa, like in the OAV, is pretty much inexistent, while still rocking his Mateba autorevolver).Juliette Binoche character wasnt really needed and i generally don't like her acting performance.
The 2 bad guys are pretty shallow and the Major's backstory is pretty lame. Nothing else should be said.
The sci-fi themes of the movie were pretty fresh in 1995 but have been done several times since then by many movies, so it might not be that groundbreaking on that side. The visuals and photography are goood, showing some flat colours at time, reminiscent of some of the OAV's shots.
Not a perfect transposition of the GITS world, i would have liked a more political plot ala Stand Alone Complex, but not a waste of money either. Also good use of 3D.

7/10… Expand

14 of 14 users found this helpful140

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6

HerrKapitan9Apr 17, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was soooooo exited for this movie, i was really glad hollywood studios looked for an anime story to make a movie and i hope the continue to do so, they are so many masterpieces there. Yet something quite don't go as i was expecting with this one, here are my points.

1- Concept and Visuals, they are **** incredible!!! the level of artwork and concept is sublime! i loved the work, the clothes and also all those little things, like the noodles in a plastic bag i never new i need it or the bubble digital media headset that busy people watch as they walk in the streets. In this regard i think is a solid 10! Btw check the work of Maciej Kuciara. Damn Good!

2- Characters, In this regard i think its a little mixed, i like the concept of this japanese weird excentric boss in section 9 and i like Scarlett as Mayor, but most of the time they felt flat as the rest of the characters, there is not much development in their persons, so its not possible to have much sympathy with any of the characters, Plus the evil guys are not very convincing in their goals. Yet i loveeeed these cyber yakusa gang, though i think that goes more in the concept area.

Story/ Plot, this is the weakest part of the movie and its weird that in its run time a compelling story cannot be told properly, there is never a genuine threat and it feels so isolated from the beautiful world they created (which is a shame, its truly awesome). Way to many things fell exactly where they supposed to and so many things are too convenient to the story that it pulls you out of the story for the obviousness of it :/ In the end they do explain why the main character is not asian, and its a clever way in my opinion (yet i don't care about that particular situation) The movie as a whole is a beautiful eye candy that when it starts to taste good it never deliver that last flavour and then it ends. Hope they make good, next time.

And yeah Scarlett s hot as hell.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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9

metachirrupApr 17, 2017

Richly realised world, visually stunning, great music and good acting. It has a surprising amount of depth for a blockbuster and I'd love to see a sequel if fans of the anime could overcome their unrealistic expectations of this film.

6 of 6 users found this helpful60

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9

Forsaken87Apr 17, 2017

Really good adaptation of the source material, staying very close regarding plot and visiuals. For everyone who has seen the anime I highly recommend this, but even for "regular viewers" this should be great if you are a bit into sci-fi. EvenReally good adaptation of the source material, staying very close regarding plot and visiuals. For everyone who has seen the anime I highly recommend this, but even for "regular viewers" this should be great if you are a bit into sci-fi. Even if the story was steamlined a bit, for a hollywood production it's still way more complex and interesting than what I am used to. Only real downside is that a handful of scenes could have used a few more takes or a little less CGI filters, but really nothing dramatic that would ruin the movie.
Overall I'm on the fence between 8 and 9, but for the trolling, "whitewashed" and other 0 votes (that this movie definitly doesn't deserve) I'm going for the higher one.

PS + Mini-Spoiler: It's a fully artifical body, who cares about what ethnic it looks like. The brain is from a japanese girl, as explicitly told by the story, so that discussion is just stupid.… Expand

5 of 5 users found this helpful50

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10

Moviefan76Apr 16, 2017

Good evening,

I am a avid fan of Ghost in the Shell and while it doesn't have the Psychological feel of the different versions as of yet, it was an excellent adaptation to get people into something they may not have been aware of. If you'reGood evening,

I am a avid fan of Ghost in the Shell and while it doesn't have the Psychological feel of the different versions as of yet, it was an excellent adaptation to get people into something they may not have been aware of. If you're an action fan or a Sci-fi fan, this movie is for you. I honestly have seen this 4 times already...twice in IMAX 3D.

No matter what you think of the white washing issue which I and 95% of Japan didn't think was an issue, please find time and see this visually stunning piece of cinematic history. I am hoping for a sequel to allow them to have a more substantial introspect of the human soul...and the potential of how the future may change our thinking of it.

Please check out this amazing movie.

J.… Expand

6 of 6 users found this helpful60

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7

Rox22Apr 16, 2017

I want to be clear about somethin: I love the GITS franchise. I watched the original anime shortly after its western release in the 90s. After that I was hooked on anime and watch all GITS movies and spinoffs. Even tried the manga series too.I want to be clear about somethin: I love the GITS franchise. I watched the original anime shortly after its western release in the 90s. After that I was hooked on anime and watch all GITS movies and spinoffs. Even tried the manga series too. To this day GITS is still my favourite anime movie. I even flew out to watch the live action version on IMAX (as there are none in the country that I live in.) With all that said what did I think? It was good. Not great, but good.

I could go in depth and write pages and pages completely dissecting every scene. But that's for another time and place. So I'll keep this as brief as I can.

Visually it is gorgeous. So much detail. It looks and feels like the GITS universe. Sound and music were a dream, I might even dare to say better than the original.

Story wise it does follow the anime very closely, however it does take some liberties and does something all it's own. To those segements I understand why they were done that way and agree that they do fit the movie. I did like how the story focuses on the Major and developes her character, giving her more depth than she had in the anime (though her character was flushed out in the SAC series.) Bato is more or less on par with his character in the anime. Where the movie does waver is with some of the side characters. If you are fan of the series then you'll know who they are and be a little annoyed that if they had so little dialogue, why didn't they make them look and act more like their anime counterparts. The new designs really add nothing, and due to their lack of introduction are redundant to anyone not familiar with. True these characters weren't that developed in the anime either (SAC did that part too) but if they need to be there with little to no dialogue, they should at least look the part.

If anything, I always thought that the Major's character was the only one that it did not matter if the actress was Japanese or not. Afterall, she does have a full body prosthetic so it is an easy thing to explain. I do think Johansen was a good choice, but she is a bit too high profile and her performance was far too similar to her role as Black Widow.

Another bother about the movie is that they really toned down the violence and blood. I'm guessing so they could get a better rating. The hyper violence and use of blood added to the atmosphere of the anime, making it feel more real and serious. In the movie this is lacking and made to look more action packed. This essentially is what makes the film feel a bit hollow. It lacks the intensity that fueled some of the scenes from the anime.

Overall: The live action GITS is the best western adaptation of an anime for the big screen to date. It looks the part, sounds the part, but doesn't completely feel the part. I feel that they tried really hard and stayed as close to the source material as they could, but I also feel like they watered it down too much so that it could get a lower age rating and appeal to a broader audience. In short: It was a good effort, but look at Deadpool and learn from that. Don't be afraid of the R rating if it delivers a better movie.… Expand

8 of 8 users found this helpful80

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9

VenegradApr 16, 2017

Неплохой фильм конечно хотелось бы увидеть большего, но даже в таком виде фильму можно ставить твердую 8, мне фильм понравился

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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10

SylviaLehmanApr 4, 2017

The funniest thing, after all chinese-american complaining about whitewashing and "The Great Wall" US failure boxoffice.Hollywood will not do movies with Asian themes anytime soon(read:decades). Means lot of asian-american actors unemployed,The funniest thing, after all chinese-american complaining about whitewashing and "The Great Wall" US failure boxoffice.Hollywood will not do movies with Asian themes anytime soon(read:decades). Means lot of asian-american actors unemployed, maybe forever , caused by themselves LOL.
Wonderful, at the end i was crying of joy. This movie respected and honrored the manga, anime and series. All characters are so nice , would love to know more about them / Um filme maravilhoso , no final do filme eu chorava de alegria . O filme fez jus ao manga, anime e séries. Os personagens todos eram tão carismáticos, adoraria conhece-los melhor.… Expand

12 of 12 users found this helpful120

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9

Advanced-ForceApr 15, 2017

It is often very faithful to Anime, Scarlet has done a good job playing Major. Great scenery, interesting underlying ethical dillema plus Batou' s eyes!!

9 of 9 users found this helpful90

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3

jsharbourApr 1, 2017

Ghost in the Shell hit American theaters in 1995 with a splash, and THIS film is not a live action rendition of that original film, it's a mish-mash of the first two films with a few bits of the TV series, Stand Alone Complex, included. THEGhost in the Shell hit American theaters in 1995 with a splash, and THIS film is not a live action rendition of that original film, it's a mish-mash of the first two films with a few bits of the TV series, Stand Alone Complex, included. THE BAD

1. Whitewashing is annoying and needs to stop. Makeup and hair works wonders. What DOES NOT work is an actor ill-suited for a character. ScarJo was a silly casting for this film. Her body type is all wrong, and she doesn't look like she prepared for the role. She's a pretty woman in the right clothes. She does not pull off the cyborg warrior body at all. Lean and mean doesn't work here. 2. The backstory for The Major was way off base, and it's necessary to set up the entire premise of the show. Mess her up, and the show is lost. She was adapted to a cyborg body for the military. In this script, she was never in the military. Why, then, is she called Major? Why was her name changed? That was supposed to be a big shocking reveal but how anti-climactic can you get when fans already know her name? The sub-story about her mother and Motoko being killed and coming back as a cyborg and visiting her grave. What?
3. Batou is an Army Ranger. Best of the best. Fought in the last war (same war Major was in). He's HUGE. He's the muscle, like Briarios in Shirow's other property, Appleseed, which features a tough, lean girl (Deunan) and a big hulking cyborg male (Briarios). That's Major and Batou in GITS, a pair image that Shirow used again. Batou is not just a regular guy with eyes. His voice was wrong, his body type wrong, his height wrong. The actor (Pilou Asbaek) would have worked if he'd been a foot taller. Totally wrong casting here that made no sense. 4. The rest of the Section 9 crew (aside from Aramaki, who spoke Japanese with subtitles even though everyone else spoke English--WOT??!) were all but ignored with a throw-in scene without any character development. There's no hint that Saito is a sniper until the very moment a sniper is needed in the plot and suddenly he's Johnny-on-the-spot. Until then, he's just standing around at meetings or running with a gun. 5. The look of the characters was all wrong. Not just the casting which was a universal failure, but the costumes as well. The only character in the source material who looks remotely "Western" (Caucasian) is Togusa and he looks very Japanese in the film (via Ng Chin Han)! There are glimpses at times that look correct, which is also odd. Inconsistent. The extravagant scenery and vision of the future city was not in the source material. This isn't Blade Runner. Time wasted that could have been spent on characterization and plotting.

THE GOOD

1. I liked that many scenes from both GITS 1 and 2 (Innocence) were combined into this one film. The sad part is, these filmmakers didn't seem to understand the nuances of the story so they steamrolled the more sensitive issues. Like, the sexbot that went berserk and tried to kill everyone. In GITS 2: Innocence, the tragedy of the robot was over the head of these filmmakers. The sexbots were a technical failure in their A.I., so the manufacturer used real human slave "ghosts" under control to give life to the sexbots. "Innocence" comes from the fact that they were all little girls. Ghost-copies. 2. I liked the villain, Hideo Kuze. This character was taken from Stand Alone Complex and thrust into the role of the A.I. virus, The Puppet Master, from the 1995 film, which is bizarre (the "uploading to the net" thing). In SAC, Kuze was a very sympathetic villain fighting for the rights of refugees to LIVE. Not to immigrate, but to not be wiped out by the government. Some deep story writing there which was clearly over the head of this scriptwriter. The Puppet Master was a partially insane A.I., and how could a regular guy upload himself? 3. The finale scene with the tank and Major with Kuze (Puppet Master) talking about their past was left unresolved but well enough to conclude the film. In the original, a helicopter-bound sniper takes them out. But, the Major sympathized with the PM in the end and merged with him on the net into a new super-Major, and that explains why in SAC she is a Super Wizard Class Hacker (actual title), because she's half A.I. The resolution of this scene worked fine for the plot as it was. I don't demand adherence to the 1995 film's conclusion as a fan. I thought it ended well. I was glad when it ended, though.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Several times in the first hour of this film I nearly got up and left. I held out due to curiosity over the Major's name change, which turned out to be a groaner. Which people are calling "the twist ending". Twist ending? Because her name is really Motoko Kusanagi? Because, those minutes spent with the old lady who lost her daughter exactly the same number of years ago that Major woke up was a big surprise? For an example of a twist ending, see The Sixth Sense.… Expand

1 of 20 users found this helpful119

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10

keemtApr 15, 2017

Super deep, amazing villain, awesome movie. Although heavy handed and blunt, the substance is even better than the style, which is good with a handful of bad patches.

5 of 5 users found this helpful50

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6

LucascastawayApr 14, 2017

Filme com um visual lindo, em algumas partes irritantes chega a ser ate irritante para o olho humano ( mais nao iterfere em nada a qualidade do filme ) cenas de a ação Boas
Mais não achei um dos melhores filmes que assisti Roteiro com algumasFilme com um visual lindo, em algumas partes irritantes chega a ser ate irritante para o olho humano ( mais nao iterfere em nada a qualidade do filme ) cenas de a ação Boas
Mais não achei um dos melhores filmes que assisti Roteiro com algumas falhas Emfim Nota 6.5… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

Jess_HillApr 14, 2017

It's a very tall order to bring a beloved anime classic into the live action realm, but this remake is ultimately a success. The visuals are absolutely stunning, with intricately realised interiors and some shot-for-shot recreations from theIt's a very tall order to bring a beloved anime classic into the live action realm, but this remake is ultimately a success. The visuals are absolutely stunning, with intricately realised interiors and some shot-for-shot recreations from the original that are sublime in fully encapsulating the original aesthetic. With masterful action sequences, and a storyline which remains close to the original, my initial misgivings were short lived. The pacing drags in the second act, and the script occasionally lacks finesse, but the performances are engaging and Johansson is excellent. Worth watching purely for the futuristic world, this is a film to see at the cinema. 8.04/10… Expand

7 of 7 users found this helpful70

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