Ghost in the Shell

7

LamontRaymondMar 31, 2017

Absolutely worth seeing. I'm not the biggest ScarJo fan, but she is awesome in this. The visuals are pretty amazing - the first 3D movie in a while that I was impressed with. Pretty solid action, as well.

12 of 14 users found this helpful122

All this user's reviews

10

disobedientlibApr 3, 2017

Stunningly beautiful film. If you can get beyond the Westernized-whitewashing or any idea that any live-action movie can stay true to its manga or anime roots, it is a fun, mesmerizing cyberpunk action roller coaster ride. It mixes just theStunningly beautiful film. If you can get beyond the Westernized-whitewashing or any idea that any live-action movie can stay true to its manga or anime roots, it is a fun, mesmerizing cyberpunk action roller coaster ride. It mixes just the right amount of fan service, mayhem, dazzling FX and world-building, and it's own spin on it's anime roots.… Expand

6 of 7 users found this helpful61

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8

marcmyworksMar 31, 2017

The critics have been hard on this film, especially the casting of Scarlett Johansson as the Major. Some of her characterizations were authentic to the original Anime character, but her range as an actress did not always convey this well.The critics have been hard on this film, especially the casting of Scarlett Johansson as the Major. Some of her characterizations were authentic to the original Anime character, but her range as an actress did not always convey this well. Overall I thought the film was beautifully shot and gorgeously rendered with the CGI. This film really is stylized as the American remake of the 1995 original film, only with the characters being more fleshed out. The script is not the strongest out there, but it is a good film with potential to trend even more Anime/Manga films made live action.… Expand

11 of 13 users found this helpful112

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8

Greeney22_Mar 31, 2017

Ghost in the Shell had fun action but it's story could get a bit muddled at times. The first two acts were great, but a love story emerged in the final third which didn't make sense for Major's character. Lots of Fanservice kept me happyGhost in the Shell had fun action but it's story could get a bit muddled at times. The first two acts were great, but a love story emerged in the final third which didn't make sense for Major's character. Lots of Fanservice kept me happy while the action didn't feel repetitive but fresh each time. Good time Popcorn flick all round… Expand

10 of 12 users found this helpful102

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8

Fritzio711Apr 1, 2017

I went into this film thinking that I was going to hate it because I do not like Scarlett Johannson, But I didn't I bloody loved this film.

Scarlett Johannson as Motoko was really good, she felt like Motoko and Pilou Asbæk as Batou wasI went into this film thinking that I was going to hate it because I do not like Scarlett Johannson, But I didn't I bloody loved this film.

Scarlett Johannson as Motoko was really good, she felt like Motoko and Pilou Asbæk as Batou was amazing the attention to detail how Batou has a love for basset hounds Is In this film, every time The Major gets undressed how he feels uncomfortable is in this film, There is so many recreation scenes from the anime in this, How Motoko has a Gender Identity disorder is in this film. This film tries to fix the problem that Ghost In the Shell had in the original It gives more of an inside look at the origin of everything and Motoko, It recaptures GITS so well it's ridiculous. I don't think it's perfect It does have some problems/flaws but It is still a solid film I wanted a recreation the best that I could get and I got It this is it. Please watch the anime before going In as this is not just an action film, there is action, but this film is more about a story and character interaction when it builds up it builds up, but for some, they will think it's boring when it isn't it's trying to tell the story through heavy dialogue as so did it with the original It wasn't all just action Don't listen to the critics as most of them don't know jack **** about anime this is not a film that you review as a normal movie, So if you haven't watched the anime don't watch it at all.… Expand

10 of 12 users found this helpful102

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9

Creeper3455Apr 3, 2017

Everyone was afraid about this reboot, because it would have ended up being another stinky Dragon Ball Evolution. Well sir, luckily it's not like that. It's not even better than the 1995 animated flick, but you can see how hard did they workEveryone was afraid about this reboot, because it would have ended up being another stinky Dragon Ball Evolution. Well sir, luckily it's not like that. It's not even better than the 1995 animated flick, but you can see how hard did they work to bring you such a great expirience (like The Angry Birds Movie). You can see from the story that they changed something from the anime, and some of them are impressive, even though i didn't expect some creepy imagery in some scenes. From a visual/sound effect standpoint, we're talking about a cybernetic version of Avatar, because the way they create the city and its minimal parts was like they were saying to you "This is what we can do with CGI now!". Everyone was complaining about ScarJo being The Major instead of a Japanese/Asian actress, but in the end, the final result was pretty good (and also a demonstration that she is not only the Black Widow we all know and love). The soundtrack was the only thing that was actually better than the anime. After LEGO Batman, Lorne Balfe returns to the ring alongside Clint Mansell to make what could be the greatest score of 2017 (for now). In the end, Ghost In The Shell didn't want to be like the Anime, but instead, it wanted to be an upgraded version of the generic action movie, with a promising story, some mind-blowing visual/sound effects and some great acting.… Expand

5 of 6 users found this helpful51

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10

AceTrigger94Mar 31, 2017

Whitewashing problem aside, the fact that this movie managed to recreate the gorgeous visuals of the anime almost perfectly deserved a 10 rating in my book. Also, you can't expect it to be deep & thoughtful like the anime. It's a HollywoodWhitewashing problem aside, the fact that this movie managed to recreate the gorgeous visuals of the anime almost perfectly deserved a 10 rating in my book. Also, you can't expect it to be deep & thoughtful like the anime. It's a Hollywood adaptation for crying out loud. But for a Hollywood adaptation, they did a pretty damn good job. Kudos to all the visual effects people!… Expand

13 of 16 users found this helpful133

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7

RohaqApr 1, 2017

Despite going in with cautious expectations, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this was a decent movie.

It always had some huge boots to fill - and while it's nowhere near as deep or philosophical - the setting is great, presentedDespite going in with cautious expectations, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this was a decent movie.

It always had some huge boots to fill - and while it's nowhere near as deep or philosophical - the setting is great, presented with some fantastic visuals backed by a superb soundtrack. It also has a decently passable story based in the GitS universe - an original story, I might add, though with some elements and scenes obviously lifted directly from the original material. It's obviously been adapted more for the mainstream audience, but it's certainly not bad.

Complaints? The lack of depth compared to its source material does it The characters could have definitely been fleshed out more, with the Major being a little too stoic compared to the anime, and the other members of Section 9 not getting anywhere near enough lines. It also doesn't nearly fill the previously mentioned big boots, but when judged on its own merits, is still a solid film.… Expand

7 of 9 users found this helpful72

All this user's reviews

8

magicman66Mar 31, 2017

Ghost in the Shell is a visually stunning and action packed movie that keeps you entertained the entire time. I went into this movie with my expectations quite low but I walked out of the theater blown away. The visual effects and overallGhost in the Shell is a visually stunning and action packed movie that keeps you entertained the entire time. I went into this movie with my expectations quite low but I walked out of the theater blown away. The visual effects and overall atmosphere of the movie was truly breathtaking and it was one of the few movies that I actually enjoyed seeing in 3D. The action in this movie is amazing; although not as graphic as it could have been if it was rated R, it was still very good. I enjoyed the characters and found them to be interesting, although maybe not as much as in the original Anime movie. Overall this is a great action movie, with some of the best visuals in a movie.… Expand

10 of 13 users found this helpful103

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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

All this user's reviews

7

moebius_risingMar 31, 2017

Wasn't even going to see this movie, but SJW's started complaining, so there must have been something good going for it. Excellent action, cinematography, pacing, and way beyond my expectations. Would recommend.

11 of 15 users found this helpful114

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9

MckaosMar 31, 2017

I think this is one of those times where you have to not compare it to the old series, and realize the time and effort and amazing quality of this film, over anything else. Critics are, well, critical. They only take away points from a movieI think this is one of those times where you have to not compare it to the old series, and realize the time and effort and amazing quality of this film, over anything else. Critics are, well, critical. They only take away points from a movie when they count up the flaws, and don't add back points for the goodies. This movie is a pure joy to watch, me knowing of the series, but only ever watching the original film, i was completely awed by the amazing visuals, fight scenes soundtrack etc. The only reason i give this movie a 9 and not a 10, is because the story was not exactly the same, and seemed dumbed down for the audience, though that didn't make it any easier to follow than what the original did. This movie is a must watch for those who love visuals and music, and especially those who love anime. Being a fan of video games and anime surely helps my review, but even all my friends and family who have never heard of it before, loved it and compared it with Blade Runner and such, giving it scores usually around 8. Please do yourself a favor and watch this movie, i don't think it deserves all the negative reviews it's getting.… Expand

11 of 15 users found this helpful114

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10

AerostatApr 1, 2017

After reading such middling reviews and being doubtful as to the viability of pulling off this imagining of such a classic franchise, I can only say I was left gobsmacked. Everything worked, every change suited the medium and I felt as IAfter reading such middling reviews and being doubtful as to the viability of pulling off this imagining of such a classic franchise, I can only say I was left gobsmacked. Everything worked, every change suited the medium and I felt as I did after seeing the original animation. The audio visual masterclass is paced and explored perfectly and it's one of the most satisfying movies I've enjoyed in a time. It knows it is beholden to the unrealistic expectations of certain types of fans/critics but it brushes them aside in a studiously respectful piece of thought provoking entertainment. The Kenji Kawai epic reprise during the credits sealed the deal. This is top tier.… Expand

8 of 11 users found this helpful83

All this user's reviews

10

EdNamelessApr 1, 2017

It's impossible to create better adaptation for non-anime-lovers audience.
Sometimes I just wanted to stop the movie and explore through the picture, so many details, so much tension.

10 of 14 users found this helpful104

All this user's reviews

9

BinSenseiMar 31, 2017

This movie was the dystopian cyberpunk Sci-fi movie that I've always wanted. Critics don't know what they are talking about. The casting controversy was unfortunate but ScarJo did a really good job as The Major so I'm not even mad. Plus theThis movie was the dystopian cyberpunk Sci-fi movie that I've always wanted. Critics don't know what they are talking about. The casting controversy was unfortunate but ScarJo did a really good job as The Major so I'm not even mad. Plus the visual effects are just WOW.… Expand

11 of 16 users found this helpful115

All this user's reviews

10

evillhobbesMar 31, 2017

A fantastic and beautiful story set in the future about the merge between humans and artificial intelligence. A 'must watch' for anime fans of the 90's movie.

10 of 15 users found this helpful105

All this user's reviews

10

ShadowareMar 31, 2017

I absolutely enjoyed this Movie, like the Animes before :) For sure we could battle for hours about the pros and cons, but honestly?: Dont like the movie? Than dont watch it again.
I will :P

10 of 15 users found this helpful105

All this user's reviews

9

zergiioblu123Apr 1, 2017

la película es gran mente grandiosa de los mejores CGI hasta este momento del cine, la historia es lo mismo pero no es igual a la del anime su único fallo es que su desenlace es muy rápido y no tan profundo como debería ser

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

All this user's reviews

10

wolf-mvpApr 1, 2017

I was afraid that the film would be turned over, thank God I was wrong. Better manga/anime adaptation ever. Waiting for continue =)))))
10 Tachikoms/10

9 of 14 users found this helpful95

All this user's reviews

10

QldgamerMar 31, 2017

This is a fantastic movie. Great plot and special fx. A great use of the known movies and series. It tkes the ideas to a different place from the anime, being what makes us human.

9 of 14 users found this helpful95

All this user's reviews

10

SirusMar 31, 2017

After being a fan of GITS and watching this movie, I really enjoyed the live action GITS. To the ignorant, there is no white washing of this movie, in the original source material, the Major preferred a Caucasian cybernetic body over an AsianAfter being a fan of GITS and watching this movie, I really enjoyed the live action GITS. To the ignorant, there is no white washing of this movie, in the original source material, the Major preferred a Caucasian cybernetic body over an Asian body. To think that she would be Asian based off her name and location is itself racist. That's like saying only white people can be in American moves or only black people can be in African movies.

Back to the movie, the visuals are stunning, and it uses a lot of the source material, but it's not completely restricted to it, the movie does take some liberties with the story, which is common in all movie adaptations. If you like GITS or you enjoy a good Sci-Fi movie, this one should be on your list.… Expand

9 of 14 users found this helpful95

All this user's reviews

7

Jas_CarMar 31, 2017

I joined up to Metacritic to post this review.

The Ghost In The Shell franchise is close to my heart, from the release of the original 8-issue run of the english comic/manga in 1995 to the recent Arise TV series. I even once drew a comicI joined up to Metacritic to post this review.

The Ghost In The Shell franchise is close to my heart, from the release of the original 8-issue run of the english comic/manga in 1995 to the recent Arise TV series. I even once drew a comic cover for another franchise which was a deliberate GitS tribute.

I watched this new live-action version last night and have struggled to settle on a score… Staying away from the trailers (and yet aware of some of the controversies), I tried to view it with fresh eyes, not knowing what would unfold.

On one hand, the aesthetics of the movie were way beyond what I expected; art direction, sets, costumes, sound were all did an excellent job of recreating a believable GitS world. The actors were fine, mostly recognisable in their roles and got me invested. I especially liked the film's handling of why the Major looked non-Asian.

Unfortunately, while expecting a somewhat less philosophical approach for a Hollywood remake, the main point of the original comics/movie was almost missing entirely - can a machine (shell) have a soul (ghost) and what would be the difference between such an entity and a human? It was not so much about the Major as to what she discovered and what it meant for her.

One of my concerns about a 2017 remake is that such existential questions about humanity were fresh and new in 1989 (Japanese GitS comic run) however, as they approach reality, such themes have been thoroughly explored in great depth by other films, games and tv shows in the meantime.

Remaking the original GitS would not bring new arguments to an already bloated debate and is perhaps why the makers didn't spend too much time asking questions such as 'can one's consciousness be uploaded to the net' and 'can there be life without a body'.

It's a shame because questions like these have always made up a big part of GitS and I have to remind myself that this is a very different version. It leans towards other common GitS themes such as political intrigue and corporate conspiracies, but they were underpinned by subject matter that the 2017 remake, sadly, refrains from taking a deep dive into.

Having digested it, I would rate the movie as a 6. It set out to do something different, perhaps more palatable, to the original GitS stories and more or less achieved it. However, for the sheer amount of homages, nods and references to other parts of the franchise (each of them brought a smile to my face), I will give it a +1.

The use of the original GitS movie theme for the end credits alone is also worth a mention. I didn't think they would actually use the iconic piece of music by Kenji Kawai and I must admit it sent shivers down my spine! One goes to the cinema for such experiences!… Expand

14 of 22 users found this helpful148

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9

jbrock11Mar 31, 2017

Let me preface this by saying I haven't read the manga but I've watched all GitS animes except for the Arise series. With that said this was a great movie that 100% honors the franchise. Even as a stand alone movie ( no pun intended ) it wasLet me preface this by saying I haven't read the manga but I've watched all GitS animes except for the Arise series. With that said this was a great movie that 100% honors the franchise. Even as a stand alone movie ( no pun intended ) it was great. Don't want this to be too long of a write up because I'm on my phone but I'll do some pros & cons.

Pros:

* The world - GitS comes to life in this movie. I've never seen another anime/comic series even come close to matching what this movie does.

* Character building - This is also a con but I'll get to that later. I think Major's character is actually better in this movie than the anime. No she's not quite as bad ass as the anime but I felt more connected to her than I did at any point in the original movie or SAC. ScarJo did a great job. Batou, Kuze and Aramaki were also very well done. Batou is basically a 1 for 1 Batou from the anime. Kuze is very similar to his character from SAC as far as his story arc and Aramaki actually has the most bad ass scene in the movie imo. I'll let you guys see that for yourself.

* Iconic moments - A LOT of scenes were taken from the original movie, Innocence and SAC. Pretty much all of them were what you'd hope for and for people that are familiar with the series it's a nice touch for fans.

* Action - A lot of cool little action sequences and two pretty memorable ones at least for me. Don't want to spoil anything but like I mentioned before the Aramaki scene was bad ass and the other is a scene from the original movie.

* Emotion - To hell with reviews saying this movie has no "soul" or whatever. This is completely false or either these people didn't see the same movie I did. While she is a little different than in the animes, this movie does a great job of connecting you to Major and there were some moment where I genuinely got a little teary eyed.

* The score - While there was no Kenji Kawai or Yoko Kanno, Clint Mansell did an awesome job. Whenever I heard they didn't get any of the original composers I thought we'd get the basic generic Hollywood sci-fi music but Mansell does an awesome job of complementing the world and the visuals. Genuinely haunting at times.

Cons:

* Pacing at the beginning - The pace is a little weird/slow in the beginning as the story seems to be jumping all over the place without time to digest what just happened in the scene before. Luckily this goes away about 30 minutes or so into the movie.

* Character building - While they did a great job with all those I mentioned above, the rest of Section 9 were pretty much after thoughts. Maybe even less than that. I think the movie should have been a little longer so they could properly introduce those characters as I think they would have only added to what was already a great world.

* Nitpicking - There are little things throughout the movie I wished they done better but I don't even know if I would even necescarilly classify them as cons. They could have just done a few simple things better and got greater effect out some of the pivotal scenes. I'll point them out but I dont want to give them away. You guys will probably be able to spot what I'm referring to.

1. The opening
2. The boat scene
3. The ending battle and follow up
4. The hacking scene

Summary:

While it's not a 1 for 1 recreation of the original which some maybe hoped for it does a great job of honoring the spirit of the GitS franchise. It's not as philosophical as the original but it does hit on the same themes and does a better job of connecting you to the main characters. There will be moments that will really effect you on an emotional level. Long story short don't believe all these reviews out there saying the movie is terrible, it's anything but that.

Rating: A- 9/10… Expand

10 of 16 users found this helpful106

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10

domyalexApr 1, 2017

I loved the original anime and loved this movie as well. Very well done, great acting and gorgeous visuals. Ignore the so-called "experts": go watch it and enjoy it.

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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10

elediMar 31, 2017

I really enjoyed the movie to be honest. It's something new but also something from the original. You've got nothing to lose here really, you should go see it.

10 of 17 users found this helpful107

All this user's reviews

10

Critic4LifeApr 2, 2017

This movie is best anime adaptation movie created on these day. I hope this movie will boost a franchise and in next parts, side characters will be explored more. Because the potential of this universe is enormous and this movie as a "startThis movie is best anime adaptation movie created on these day. I hope this movie will boost a franchise and in next parts, side characters will be explored more. Because the potential of this universe is enormous and this movie as a "start of exploring" this universe is working really well. Also I've got to mention visual effects - these are the best visual effects I've seen in a long time. All fears about Scarlett Johansson as Motoko can be dropped, because SJ nailed that role and authors did a genius twist about her origin. So... as for conclusion I can definately say that what authors archived is: Visual implementation of 22-year anime beauty into modern standards and one step forward of Japanese culture spirit implementation in Hollywood.… Expand

7 of 12 users found this helpful75

All this user's reviews

0

BarronOfDuneApr 5, 2017

First off: I don't care about the whole ScarJo casting thing. The point of The Major was always that she had an artificial body of unspecified race, and going by pure aesthetics SJ is not a bad lookalike.

No, the far more offensive thingFirst off: I don't care about the whole ScarJo casting thing. The point of The Major was always that she had an artificial body of unspecified race, and going by pure aesthetics SJ is not a bad lookalike.

No, the far more offensive thing about this movie is that it was made at all. Just like with the crapfest that was the recent Beauty and the Beast, studios don't seem to understand that for animation the art style is a huge part of the storytelling, so a live-action remake (replete with tons of greenscreen CGI, ironically) is all but guaranteed to be a soulless husk of the original. And so it is.

I don't want to go on a huge rant about the original, which is legitimately a classic even if some people get a little too overexcited about its supposed thematic depth ("what if people were... robots?"). It came practically out of nowhere with an incredibly original vision and gorgeously detailed animation that Western audiences had never really seen before. This new movie pretty much takes the overlay of that and copies some iconic scenes (shot-for-shot in some cases), but turns it into just another bland Hollywood sci-fi action outing.

Just watch the original. It holds up well and will still be enjoyed decades from now. Meanwhile I'll be amazed if anyone even remembers the ridiculous ScarJo version in a year.… Expand

7 of 14 users found this helpful77

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10

CheneygramApr 1, 2017

Honestly I loved it! When an anime has alot of information to cover they need to simplify it so people can actually understand it and not be confused the whole time. Also they have to have it fit in a reasonable time. I feel GITS did justHonestly I loved it! When an anime has alot of information to cover they need to simplify it so people can actually understand it and not be confused the whole time. Also they have to have it fit in a reasonable time. I feel GITS did just this. They changed the main story and I was still happy. Im a big fan of the anime movies and series, and loved the direction they went for this movie. Plus the CGI was **** amaze.… Expand

7 of 14 users found this helpful77

All this user's reviews

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

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

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

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

10

SkerletJul 15, 2019

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

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

9

DiptanshuNov 5, 2019

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

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

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

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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2

JeffRegendApr 2, 2017

Incredibly shallow. All the meaningful questions raised by the source material don't even so much as show up. With source material that asked things like 'how much can you change before what's left isn't the same as what you started with', orIncredibly shallow. All the meaningful questions raised by the source material don't even so much as show up. With source material that asked things like 'how much can you change before what's left isn't the same as what you started with', or 'what can you trust if you give away control of your senses', this movie somehow turned that into a by the numbers, get revenge on the one dimensional bad guy, sci-fi action flick. It had a great coat of paint but absolutely zero substance. I can't fault the actors for this however. It's plainly obvious they did what they could with an atrocious script. Whether this is because the creators the film thought audiences would be to stupid to understand the concepts laid out in the original or if the script writers and producers didn't understand it themselves is questionable, although I'm inclined to say both as even when the film attempted to pay lip service to it's source it managed totally botch the message, at times delivering the exact opposite. Very disappointing, a puddle deep sci-fi action flick that simply used the Ghost in the Shell name and nothing more.… Expand

8 of 18 users found this helpful810

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5

Compi24Apr 2, 2017

Despite easily attaining the title of "greatest live-action adaptation of an anime that I've ever seen," director Rupert Sanders' "Ghost In The Shell" is still an overwhelmingly shallow and vapid experience, featuring hollow characters,Despite easily attaining the title of "greatest live-action adaptation of an anime that I've ever seen," director Rupert Sanders' "Ghost In The Shell" is still an overwhelmingly shallow and vapid experience, featuring hollow characters, muddied plot elements, and a molasses-paced first-half. Boy, does this thing look and sound amazing, though. It's just a shame there's such a mixed bag of a screenplay at the center of this fantastically designed slog through transhumanism and other traditional cyberpunk thematics. Fans of the original film, television series, and/or manga may have something to latch on to here, but for the uninitiated, this film may be a particular challenge to commit to.… Expand

5 of 12 users found this helpful57

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5

newrandomageMar 31, 2017

This was not the movie that was promised, sure, but it is far away from being a bad movie. Let me establish this from the get-go: Ghost in the Shell 2017 tries to integrate scenes from the 1995 anime Ghost in the Shell movie with goodThis was not the movie that was promised, sure, but it is far away from being a bad movie. Let me establish this from the get-go: Ghost in the Shell 2017 tries to integrate scenes from the 1995 anime Ghost in the Shell movie with good intentions, but some of them come out as interesting references while others are infuriating evidence that shows those scenes are there just to be cool and appeal massive audiencies. The story isn't based on the original film but on the manga, which makes it even worse.

The environment looks fake, both in form and looks, the city doesn't really make sense most of the time with bizarre and unrealistic houses and settings that were not there in the original story, and all the technology presented in the movie is used as an excuse to show special effects that sometimes are unnecesary and just make the experience worse.

That being said the script could have been executed in a poorer way, altough isn't perfect and really far from what the 1995 movie could offer, both on depth and meaning but it won't dissapoint the biggest part of the audience. Scarlett's performance prevent some scenes from being cringeworthy, Pilou Asbæk makes a really good Batou against all odds and Takeshi Kitano's performance is really good too despite the fact that his character making no sense.

Ghost in the Shell tries really hard to not fail at what it does, it has unforgivable mistakes but that shouldn't take away that most people won't even notice them and will be impressed by the special effects. A weak 6 for me. It could have been worse.… Expand

6 of 15 users found this helpful69

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5

EpicLadySpongeMar 31, 2017

Let's take whatever we can find to get a very great movie said the movie's director. Unfortunately, his ultimate predication fell flat on the surface when he found out even his film has flaws. Not even the cast (especially Scarlett Johansson)Let's take whatever we can find to get a very great movie said the movie's director. Unfortunately, his ultimate predication fell flat on the surface when he found out even his film has flaws. Not even the cast (especially Scarlett Johansson) could save the film from having these amount of flaws that just stops making the film fun to watch or being interesting all together during the halfway of the film.… Expand

8 of 21 users found this helpful813

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3

portmanteauMar 31, 2017

beautiful art direction, stilted dialogue, absurd truncated editing and characterisation. All in all, a bit of a train wreck as a film/story. Not remotely engaging, lack lustre action. All the gloss, none of the substance. What a shame.

8 of 22 users found this helpful814

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2

Yanko_BApr 1, 2017

The biggest flaw of modern's adaptation films is the lack of respect towards the fundamental esence of the movies; Ghost in the shell is the quintessential example of how bad can you screw up franchises by selling us fake dreams. TheThe biggest flaw of modern's adaptation films is the lack of respect towards the fundamental esence of the movies; Ghost in the shell is the quintessential example of how bad can you screw up franchises by selling us fake dreams. The tolerability I had for this movie broke in the very first minutes of the film; The script is very weak in terms of carisma, the name "ghost in the shell" could be pretty much removed and I wouldn't notice the difference between a Michael Bay's, Jacob Gentry's or Wachowski's film. In terms of direction we have this weird fusion of action driven play that don't don't developes the plot at all, but even worse, before and after that we have moments of very brief scenes of Mamoru Oshii's GITS (1993) contemplative shots that miss the point of reflection towards humanity and machines, existence and self. The dialogues are probably the worst thing at all, filled with cliche phrases like "They created me. But they can not control me" and "They did not save your life. They stole it", didn't took the time to develop the meaning of "ghost", wich term is crucial to understand the film. We get a glimpse of some of the members of sector 9 team, for like 30 to 60 seconds of screen time of Togusa, Saitou, Ishikawa and Borma (Hell, I recall seing Ishikawa for 5 seconds before the movie was over when I totally forgot about him). The director just smashed whatever was in his mind when seeing the movie and removed the complexity of the play just to make it more accesible, but obviosly, was still flawed in its delivery.… Expand

6 of 17 users found this helpful611

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5

CanisrahApr 4, 2017

This film has two problems: 1. the pacing is off - and the way the story is told results in rises and falls such that the thread of the overarching narrative is hard to engage with.

2. Scarlett - seems miscast in this role. Her acting isThis film has two problems: 1. the pacing is off - and the way the story is told results in rises and falls such that the thread of the overarching narrative is hard to engage with.

2. Scarlett - seems miscast in this role. Her acting is wooden and unconvincing. So many scenes where you can envisage the director has just said 'action!' and Scarlett has done her thing. You can tell she's acting (or trying to act). Breaks immersion - I never really bought the character because she didn't do a good enough job of convincing me that she was the character.

The result is a film that looks slick but lack substance, character and soul.… Expand

3 of 9 users found this helpful36

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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.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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4

alexteo07Mar 31, 2017

Contrary to what the reviewer says, the film IS not ""respectful and successful as an adaptation"" NOR does it strive to ""capture the same intellectual conversation about identity, ownership and consent that are presented in the sourceContrary to what the reviewer says, the film IS not ""respectful and successful as an adaptation"" NOR does it strive to ""capture the same intellectual conversation about identity, ownership and consent that are presented in the source material.""
Or if it does strive, it utterly fails.

The dialogues are full of non-sense mumbo jumbo about ghosts and shells, lol.
Apart from the beginning, the plot differs widely from the original, and not in a good way. It's like they tried to make the philosophy behind the original very accessible to a wide audience, and missed the point completely. I can't figure why they tried to do that, because the concept of the original anime is not hard to grasp.

It's stunning from a visual standpoint, but that's about it. An empty shell....… Expand

3 of 12 users found this helpful39

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6

joaomlo2Apr 1, 2017

Even with lowered standards it managed to disappoint me. First two acts were all over the place with your average evil corporation plot apparent from the first scene, characters over-explaining the themes (I get that it is intended for aEven with lowered standards it managed to disappoint me. First two acts were all over the place with your average evil corporation plot apparent from the first scene, characters over-explaining the themes (I get that it is intended for a broader demographic but perhaps more good "show, don't tell" moments like when Major was with that human prostitute would be better), they looked like they got Section 9 wrong (I have no idea why they bothered to invent that new female Section 9 member when they give her barely anything to say/do) and they completely missed the point on making the body Major was in, be important when the idea is that she has no problem detaching herself from her human form.

What I will defend in this movie (besides it being a visual masterpiece) is that the 3rd act gets extremely close to redeeming this movie. Major's origin reveal pretty much gave a big middle finger to the whitewashing controversy in my opinion. Section 9 suddenly started being likable again and the climax with the spider-tank although being straight from the anime like many other scenes, it's a really well done copy nonetheless.

Another thing is the fact that one year ago I have been introduced to Ghost in the Shell (instantly becoming a fan) because I heard this movie was being made which means that many more people will see the movie and may want to know more about the original movie and series which is enough justification for this movie to exist. If people somehow come to me and ask me about Ghost in the Shell, I won't have much trouble pointing this one out first and tell them that if they like the questions it asks but want a better movie, they should drop the anime prejudice and go straight to the 1995 movie and so on.… Expand

2 of 8 users found this helpful26

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2

HorrucideApr 2, 2017

God Damn that was awful, you know it's bad when you go into a movie with rock bottom expectations and it still manages to disappoint you.
Plays like a bad remake of Robocop 2014 (let that sink in for a moment) with a smattering of theGod Damn that was awful, you know it's bad when you go into a movie with rock bottom expectations and it still manages to disappoint you.
Plays like a bad remake of Robocop 2014 (let that sink in for a moment) with a smattering of the greatest hits of GitS.
A bland, underdeveloped mess of a film without any of the nuance of Mamoru Oshii's original film version. The entire cast sleepwalks their way through bland hamfisted exposition (even Takeshi Kitano seems to be phoning it in) with the exception of Kaori Momoi who gives a good performance.
Clint Mansell & Lorne Balfe's score while decent is just more sci-fi ambience and lacks the soul of Kenji Kawaii's original (or the subtle meaning that it contained)
It's a real shame that this couldn't have been directed by someone like Neil Blomkamp or Alex Garland. Because after seeing this I wouldn't trust Rupert Sanders to direct traffic.… Expand

3 of 14 users found this helpful311

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2

GraileonMar 31, 2017

Where to start? Lets start with the VERY FEW good things. The movie is pretty. The Effects and Scenes are fantastic visually. That's about it for the GOOD. As a hardcore Ghost in the Shell Fan, I am horrendously appalled with this beingWhere to start? Lets start with the VERY FEW good things. The movie is pretty. The Effects and Scenes are fantastic visually. That's about it for the GOOD. As a hardcore Ghost in the Shell Fan, I am horrendously appalled with this being called Ghost in the Shell. There are clear MOMENTS where they seem to follow the story but they failed at trying to follow any bit of the Original Story. The notable scenes that scream to GitS fans are from all manner of points within the history of the Anime/Manga and not one full coherent story arc. Hollywood yet again takes liberties in the story to add elements that aren't even supposed to be there to try to justify how they wrote this monumental failure. I refuse to put in spoilers but it is obvious that this is more of Futuristic Cyberpunk Movie based loosely on Ghost in the Shell, for the general consumer with little to no knowledge of the Manga/Anime. This film would have been something decent had the character names been changed and been named something else entirely. If you are going to make a Ghost in the Shell movie, make one with one of the ample story lines available and stick to it. I won't even touch the casting or character portrayals in this film because the casting is mired in controversy that I want no part of and the Portrayals, while not necessarily on point, they weren't as bad as they could have been. Overall, if you don't know and or care about Ghost in the Shell pre-Hollywood movie you might love and enjoy this, but for any real GitS fans out there this is a bitter disappointment that reeks of a failure that will devastate any hopes we have for a real Ghost in the Shell live action ever to come into existence.… Expand

4 of 21 users found this helpful417

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3

TRPandaMar 31, 2017

There's only one word that can describe this movie, boring. This movie is a bore from start to finish, and not because of a lack of action, but because of a lack of anything meaningful actually ever happening. From the get go we areThere's only one word that can describe this movie, boring. This movie is a bore from start to finish, and not because of a lack of action, but because of a lack of anything meaningful actually ever happening. From the get go we are introduced to the "Major" (Scarlett Johansson), a robot with a human brain; which is intriguing. And to be honest, the premise of this film is really intriguing. Except, the execution of this premise is crap. How the hell can the future where everyone is cybernetically enhanced be boring? Congrats to the film makers for making it so. Every other shot in this movie is a shot of the futuristic city that the movie takes place in, which is cool, for a bit. Then it just becomes annoying. It's like the film makers know that it's boring so they show a cool city scape to distract people, but it doesn't work. The action is also crap. I'm not going to pretend I know much about the original anime from 1995, but I've seen clips of the action in preparation for watching this movie, and I was super hyped for the cool, stylised action. But no. The action sequences are short, lackluster and half of the time action is just skipped. There's a scene were Johansson escapes a building; and we see her take out two or three guys then it cuts to her having escaped. I wanted to see her take out an entire buildings worth of security! And then there's a scene with Batou (Pilou Asbaek) where some guys come to kill him, and before the action starts, it cuts to a scene of him driving away in his car! Why can't we see him kickass? He was a cool badass character and you skip the one action scene he has on his own! There's also a scene where Johansson has to take on a Spider-tank. I thought "this might actually get interesting" but no. She just shoots it a bunch until it dies; much like a Destiny boss - boring. And then there's the villain, or should I say villains? The first time we meet the first villain (minor spoilers ahead) he dumps a truck load of exposition and then ceases to be the villain. Then the movie adds a new villain (who granted is in the beginning of the movie, but is just shown to be a bit of a dick) who has absolutely zero set up. He's just bad because he runs a company. And his end has absolutely zero payoff because he had no set up. Overall, I get the sense that this should've been a series of films, in order to set up all of the characters, especially the villains. I'm very disappointed with this film, but his has intrigued me to go ahead and watch the orignal. 3/10… Expand

3 of 19 users found this helpful316

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3

budspencer2012Mar 31, 2017

I just came back from it. It's really disappointing compared to the anime. I was not expecting a frame to frame remake of the anime but man it was not enjoyable to watch. The story is bland and very cliche. The visuals are there, the city isI just came back from it. It's really disappointing compared to the anime. I was not expecting a frame to frame remake of the anime but man it was not enjoyable to watch. The story is bland and very cliche. The visuals are there, the city is beautiful but there is no sense of life to it. It feels sterile and dead. The supporting characters are under developed. The movie has a big lull in the middle where everything slows down to a crawl. The movie cannot find its feet properly. What made things great for the anime were washed away and replaced with predictable and 1 dimensional villain/situations. It's like one of the bad episodes in the anime series. I hope it does good money and i hope to see a sequel but man they will have to ramp up to a way better story than what we just got. As a first time person getting your Ghost in the shell cherry taken, you might enjoy this. As somewhat hardcore fans, you will go meh!… Expand

2 of 16 users found this helpful214

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2

ForemostApr 3, 2017

Visual component quite good. Unfortunately this is the only good thing in the movie. The plot is very weak. Simplest reasoning about the logic and motivation of the project 2571 ruins it from the very beginning. Especially if one comparesVisual component quite good. Unfortunately this is the only good thing in the movie. The plot is very weak. Simplest reasoning about the logic and motivation of the project 2571 ruins it from the very beginning. Especially if one compares that plot with the one from 1995 anime-movie from where several scenes simply copy pasted meaning its remastering. What is especially annoying about the movie is that the second part transforms into a slide show i.e. it seems that the authors ran out of money or tried to fit into the timelimit.… Expand

1 of 8 users found this helpful17

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5

TayleenGravelMar 31, 2017

I believed that the film will be a really decent adaptation and surprise me. But unfortunately he has very much upset me.
The film is very much mired in clichés and stamps. Scenes of firefights and hand-to-hand combat leaves much to beI believed that the film will be a really decent adaptation and surprise me. But unfortunately he has very much upset me.
The film is very much mired in clichés and stamps. Scenes of firefights and hand-to-hand combat leaves much to be desired, music is unremarkable. Only the visual design of the city and acting of all the actors came out really decent. This is a very mediocre adaptation and just poor film.… Expand

1 of 10 users found this helpful19

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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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4

nopApr 11, 2017

This is an abomination. They butchered the original movie, removed bones, meat and the brain, did a story transplant from Robocop(totally neutered, of course), filled the rest with cringeworthy dialogue, aimed at 12 year olds.
CG looks cheap,This is an abomination. They butchered the original movie, removed bones, meat and the brain, did a story transplant from Robocop(totally neutered, of course), filled the rest with cringeworthy dialogue, aimed at 12 year olds.
CG looks cheap, some scenes still appear beautiful, because they were copied straight from the original.
There must be a special place in hell reserved for greedy talentless hacks who make soulless PG-13 remakes.… Expand

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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5

TVJerryApr 4, 2017

This future vision of our world features dazzling cityscapes with giant 3D advertising. That's the best thing about this film, which takes place in an advanced world where people are cyber-ehananced. Even so, they still use guns withThis future vision of our world features dazzling cityscapes with giant 3D advertising. That's the best thing about this film, which takes place in an advanced world where people are cyber-ehananced. Even so, they still use guns with old-school bullets (than often miss their target) and they drive their own cars. Scarlett Johansson has her brain implanted into an artificial body and becomes a crime fighter. But it couldn't be that simple: She has to have an existential crisis about who she really is. There's plenty of fast action, but it doesn't feature innovative fights or even clear editing. Despite the noisy encounters, trite plot and advanced paranoia, this film's best asset is its cool visuals.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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3

spudApr 8, 2017

Scarlett Johansson is not a good actress. Ghost in the Shell is not a good movie. It has brief moments of lucidity, but it is essentialy the filmic equivalent of an AA member that has fallen off the wagon. This was a missed opportunity.

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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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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6

RtheomApr 2, 2017

This was a fine enough movie on its own, but looking at it from that perspective, it also did nothing original. This is the American version of Ghost in the Shell in every regard, also known as Lady Robocop. The actors all do very well inThis was a fine enough movie on its own, but looking at it from that perspective, it also did nothing original. This is the American version of Ghost in the Shell in every regard, also known as Lady Robocop. The actors all do very well in their parts, but none of them actually managed to match their characters from the anime and manga. There are a lot of superfluous scenes that felt very much made for American audiences, and ultimately this becomes the classic American story of "discovering who you are in the world", which the Japanese version was not about at all.

But that's okay, you will enjoy it if you watch it, but you can definitely wait for this to come out on Netflix.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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6

KenmeiApr 3, 2017

We saw this in IMAX 3D and it honestly wasn't as bad as I expected. The acting was suspect in a few spots, especially ScarJo's performance here, but the effects were very cool and I quite enjoyed some of the action scenes. It certainly willWe saw this in IMAX 3D and it honestly wasn't as bad as I expected. The acting was suspect in a few spots, especially ScarJo's performance here, but the effects were very cool and I quite enjoyed some of the action scenes. It certainly will never hold a candle to the original movie and show but, for as bad as I was expecting here, this was a decent surprise.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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5

VitaminKApr 12, 2017

Hollywood gutted this extremely deep and rich series with a 107 minute action movie with Scarlett Johansson kickin' ass. If you are a true fan of the series stay away, it will only disappoint. If you just wanna see a futuristic action flickHollywood gutted this extremely deep and rich series with a 107 minute action movie with Scarlett Johansson kickin' ass. If you are a true fan of the series stay away, it will only disappoint. If you just wanna see a futuristic action flick where Scarlett Johansson goes to town on bad guys go on and check it out. Then go watch the old manga/anime versions for some head f*ckery and soul searching.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

3

SkepticalHippoApr 6, 2017

I'm afraid this movie was a massive disappointment for this long-time GITS fan. While the visuals are okay - if a little CGI-heavy - they can't distract from the abysmal script, monotone delivery and virtually non-existent characterI'm afraid this movie was a massive disappointment for this long-time GITS fan. While the visuals are okay - if a little CGI-heavy - they can't distract from the abysmal script, monotone delivery and virtually non-existent character development.

With such a wealth of source material, I just can't understand how little substance there was to this film. We saw nothing of Section 9's camaraderie, nor did we see the Major acting like a kick-ass leader, organising the team, playing to their individual strengths. She was like a stroppy teenager the whole way through the movie. The complex relationship between her and Batou, or between her and "the old ape", were also mostly absent.

Gone also are any meaningful philosophical discussions on the nature of intelligence - such a core part of the GITS franchise. Instead we get a lacklustre rehash of the Robocop plot. I appreciate there are time constraints with any movie, but the 1995 movie managed to fit plenty of philosophy into its 20-minute-shorter running time, while being just as action packed.

Oh and the music, the all important music that was such a big part of the 1995 anime and the TV shows? Nope, noting remotely comparable made it into this movie. It's just dull, generic-sounding background music from start till finish. This was all the more surprising given that the music in the first trailer was pretty good.

The only redeeming features in my opinion:

- the aesthetics of the city and technology was close to that of the source material
- I thought Pilou Asbæk made for a pretty cool Batou
- Kaori Momoi was surprisingly touching as the widow encountered towards the end of the film

My advice to fellow GITS fans: pretend this movie didn't happen, and pray for GITS SAC 3rd GIG!… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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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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4

EdelgulApr 9, 2017

Well, if they wanted to copy the 1995 Anime, they should’ve done so, but create half-made copy.
The movie is not bad, but it also not good. A number of scenes were copied from 1995 Anime, or its 2.0 upgrade. Few scenes were copied from SolidWell, if they wanted to copy the 1995 Anime, they should’ve done so, but create half-made copy.
The movie is not bad, but it also not good. A number of scenes were copied from 1995 Anime, or its 2.0 upgrade. Few scenes were copied from Solid State Society OVA. And I mean copied, in an almost frame to frame basis. However some other scenes were obviously invented anew (f.e. yakuza bar scene), and they do not match in style (and the difference in the choreography of the scenes is way too visible) and are much less stunning visually. The story is very different, and is full of Hollywood clichés – Evil Corporation™, fake memory™ etc. I was expecting a new story (and I’d rather prefer a new story to something, that I know well), however It is very secondary (to an extent, that I’d say I’ve seen it in every second American Sci-Fi movie including James Bond) and is mainly used to tie in the scenes. It is heavily based on Motoko, rather than exploring and presenting the world around, and the concept is that Motoko is unique first human brain transplanted into a cyborg body, who is on a hunt for her past (and you can easily guess the whole plot from here). Despite my initial skepticism about white washing, Johansson played the role well (although there was limited space for that), however actor playing Batou was very weak (the actor wasn’t trying at all). Other members of Section 9 made a very brief appearance to say anything serious about them. Aramaki also was quite good, although Takeshi Kitano decided to alter the character.
Verdict: 4/10 – Some scenes are visually good, and they are recreation of classical GITS. Some are way too bad/primitive/simplistic. Especially the bar torture scene, which was unnecessary, and way too out of the style of the movie.
I do not recommend seeing this in the cinema (CGI is not really that stunning – DR. Strange CGI was way better), just wait for an HD version appearing on sale.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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3

BorasApr 11, 2017

As a fan of the manga and the whole anime series (1198, 2015, GITS SAC 1&2, Solid State Society, Arise 1-4 and Rising, well all I can say is: NO.
This movie is horrible. I give 1.5 point to photography, the only excellence in this movie, andAs a fan of the manga and the whole anime series (1198, 2015, GITS SAC 1&2, Solid State Society, Arise 1-4 and Rising, well all I can say is: NO.
This movie is horrible. I give 1.5 point to photography, the only excellence in this movie, and 1.5 to Johansson, so much criticized (by me too) but in the end, the only valid thing in the movie. now, the bad things...too many to say.
1st, Director: my uncle Ben could direct this film better. It is unbelievable how action scene of 1998 are still better than a 2017 movie (with class A spending budget). Most of the action scenes are from a B movie, really, really disappointing how you can see magnificent images and so poor sequences

2) Content: guys, if you have tons of material to choose from, don't try to put everything in the same movie, the result will be messy, trivial and with no logical connection. that what happened here, too much content at the same time = confusion, lack of depth

3) Meaning: the whole meaning of Ghost in the Shell has been revisited in a naive, stupid, and worse, already passed argument about human life and Artificial Intelligence. That is NOT the main point of Ghost in The Shell: the point is Evolution of Sentient Being, from Individualities embodied in phisical sentient being, from Neural Networks where Identities melt into virtual new form of collective intelligences. That's one of the real point to be discussed, the loss of identity, the evolution of human being beyond physical bodies, the possibility of losing our own identity in order to transcend human body limitations. I am really surprised of how the production can spend so badly a class A budget for such a bad movie. I will forget this exist. forever.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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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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6

AvodeskormApr 1, 2017

Although I've never seen the original GitS, I could tell that most of the emotionally charged scenes and postmodern philosophy are totally subdued and streamlined to simplicity. It's a solid sci-fi action movie that I don't regret seeing butAlthough I've never seen the original GitS, I could tell that most of the emotionally charged scenes and postmodern philosophy are totally subdued and streamlined to simplicity. It's a solid sci-fi action movie that I don't regret seeing but wish the script was geared towards that thought-provoking element that the source material is known for. Seeing as how the one of the scenes present in the trailer was most likely cut from the movie most likely due to executive meddling, there may have been more to it then what we got (Example: The homoerotic kiss between actresses in the trailer). The potential for hollywood movies adapted from anime is very high if this movie is anything to go off of. The shift in high-budget hollywood movies is extremely exciting if they're willing to take more risks rather then staying safe. In the end, this film is stuck trying to decide if it wants to take that leap rather then taking a small step.… Expand

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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0

LeeTsuiApr 11, 2017

Just went to see #ghostintheshell aka #gwailointheshell starring #scarlettjohanssen. My honest opinion follows..
Imagine being a Chinese girl or Black girl and a car full of guys drives by you shouting YOU ARE ONE HOT CHINKY!!(or N word)
NowJust went to see #ghostintheshell aka #gwailointheshell starring #scarlettjohanssen. My honest opinion follows..
Imagine being a Chinese girl or Black girl and a car full of guys drives by you shouting YOU ARE ONE HOT CHINKY!!(or N word)
Now on the one hand you feel good because a gang of guys acknowledged your beauty, you maybe feel good about it and it lifts your self esteem, and after a few moments, you think a little harder and realise you just got called a Chinky (or N word) and actually you just got verbally assaulted. Now you feel really confused and kinda in a little shock, but still confused clinging onto the compliments you were given yet at the same time feeling kinda violated in a complimentary way right?
Now that's what the **** is wrong with this movie. I mean I loved the film itself. It's a great film and in many ways really does well rewriting the old script and making it interesting for all of us people who know the anime.
But seriously WTF I mean WTF Firslty Tokyo is blatantly Hong Kong with a few CGi animations chucked over it. Anyone from Hong Kong is gonna laugh as you see Tsui Wah in the background or the HQ of Biotech as the Centre. It's kinda cool but took me out of the movie. So lazy they couldn't have CG'd IFC to not look so blatantly IFC.
Kinda a disrespect to Japan not actually using a shred of Japan.
That's not obviously my main gripe. My main gripe is the insane whitewashing of the entire movie. Ok ****ing cast Scarlett Johanssen, she was good as the Major, but why the **** does the entire population of Tokyo have to be white?! There's one ****ing Japanese dude in the entire movie, even the Geisha is a robot :)
I mean come the **** on, ok fine you wanna #whitewash a few characters, ok. But **** man every ****ing person bar a few dead henchmen was white.
I left the movie enjoying it, but feeling really frustrated by the casting of it. Like I said the movie is really good. But **** seriously you cast like 1 Japanese person, in a movie based in Tokyo, with a crack team of white american (Japanese Government) commandos and the only 2nd teir Asian is ****ing Hong Kong Chinese and not remotely in any way Japanese looking at all!!!
My god what do we have to look forward to next? Mulan by Disney with a blonde Mulan with american father etc? WTF is this ****
Please remake Spirited Away and shoot it exclusively in India and have all the cast either Indian or Black? If you can white wash this movie, why the **** not brownwash a few movies???
Please disney make Mulan an all Chinese cast, and main language in Mandarin I dare you. You'll make a ****ing fortune in China and explain to the West why you chose to make a big budget movie about Chinese people actually shot in China in their native language for 1.4Billion mandarin speaking people to enjoy.
****s sake..
So Ghost in the Shell, Good movie go watch it.
#animestillbettertho… Expand

0 of 20 users found this helpful020

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3

eagleeyevikingNov 2, 2018

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

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

rodogonioMar 31, 2017

This movie is a visual delight. Everything, from production design, to fx and art direction is so meticulously crafted that is hard not to feel satisfied by the presentation alone. Having said that, characters and their motivations lackThis movie is a visual delight. Everything, from production design, to fx and art direction is so meticulously crafted that is hard not to feel satisfied by the presentation alone. Having said that, characters and their motivations lack enough exposition as to develop properly thus generating a sense of void and boredom after half of the movie. Luckily, it ends right when you are feeling genuinely uninterested.… Expand

0 of 12 users found this helpful012

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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

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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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

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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4

Brent_MarchantApr 2, 2017

It's unfortunate when the substance of a good story gets buried under layers of cinematic style, keeping the essence of the underlying narrative from shining through, but that's precisely the problem with this live action anime feature. AnIt's unfortunate when the substance of a good story gets buried under layers of cinematic style, keeping the essence of the underlying narrative from shining through, but that's precisely the problem with this live action anime feature. An over-reliance on action sequences and stunning (but decidedly excessive) visual effects dilutes the relevance and poignancy of this film, depriving viewers of the most important attribute it has to impart. Scarlett Johansson's staid, detached bad-ass routine is growing a little stale, too, a virtual carbon copy of the performances she gave in "Lucy" and "Under the Skin." And then there's the movie's tendency to borrow from numerous other sources, like "Blade Runner," "The Matrix," "Cloud Atlas," "Ex Machina" and "Total Recall," to name a few. Pass on this one -- you won't miss much.… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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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

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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0

cas514Apr 5, 2017

- One Word: Crap

0 of 15 users found this helpful015

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6

DirtyDaveApr 3, 2017

The visuals are good, the sound is great, and there are some genuinely enjoyable moments in this film. The biggest flaw is they are spaced too far between a plot focused on trying to be more profound than it is.

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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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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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

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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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

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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3

eldumloidoApr 7, 2017

Worst movie I have seen in years. Had some pretty visuals but otherwise had nothing good. They ruined the plot and characters and missed everything that was interesting about the anime.

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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3

lastghost68Apr 4, 2017

While the visuals and special effects were very good, they completely ruined the story. If you are a fan of the original movie, you will hardly recognize the original plot. This is what Hollywood does to classics. Avoid this movie!

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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6

RetroBlurApr 9, 2017

Kind of a mixed bag, to be honest. The visuals are fantastic, especially in 3D, but the script is half-baked; it sometimes feels like the original Ghost in the Shell, exploring Major's identity and her humanity, but largely plays it safe withKind of a mixed bag, to be honest. The visuals are fantastic, especially in 3D, but the script is half-baked; it sometimes feels like the original Ghost in the Shell, exploring Major's identity and her humanity, but largely plays it safe with a bland revenge story.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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6

russiangamerApr 6, 2017

Главные проблемы и недостатки, если сравнить с аниме:
1. Отсутствие потрясающей атмосфера, я бы даже сказал, что атмосфера вообще отсутствует.
2. Рейтинг PG13. Жестокость и обнажённые тела в оригинале тоже очень влияли на атмосферу, а тут этоГлавные проблемы и недостатки, если сравнить с аниме:
1. Отсутствие потрясающей атмосфера, я бы даже сказал, что атмосфера вообще отсутствует.
2. Рейтинг PG13. Жестокость и обнажённые тела в оригинале тоже очень влияли на атмосферу, а тут это отсутствует.
3. Актёры. Все, кроме главной героини играют нормально. Нет, она не отвратительна, но даже робота играет не особо.
4. Эффекты. С таким бюджетом было бы стыдно не сделать нормальную графику. Получилось неплохо, но до оригинала не дотянет.
5. Музыка. В аниме можно было просто любоваться деталями и пейзажами под потрясный саундтрек. В фильме же не чувствуется чёткой гармонии между музыкой и происходящем на экране.
6. Самое обидное - сюжет. Я думал, что это ремейк только первой части, но на экране мелькают какие-то персонажи и вещи из второй части, что окончательно меня запутывало. Порой, мне просто было не понятно на каком моменте сейчас идёт повествование. Так же сюжет немало порезали.
В итоге скажу, что не отрицаю того, что фильм может понравиться людям незнакомым с аниме, но поклонники будут не в восторге, как и я.
Как почитатель оригинала - 6/10 Как незнакомый с первоисточником - примерно 7/10… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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5

CineAutoctonoApr 2, 2017

The live-action version of "Ghost in the Shell" turned out to be very good, but seldom slow, and greatly altered the story of the anime, but retains its history and the story is completely new, Scarlett Johansson, excelled in her character,The live-action version of "Ghost in the Shell" turned out to be very good, but seldom slow, and greatly altered the story of the anime, but retains its history and the story is completely new, Scarlett Johansson, excelled in her character, and her performance as Such was good, and everything else, we do not stop enjoying it.… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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2

QuietGiantApr 6, 2017

Saw this to satisfy my curiosity. While hoping for the best, I prepared myself for another mediocre Hollywood adaptation. I was not expecting an outright butchery. This film is completely devoid of any of the depth, nuance, or intelligenceSaw this to satisfy my curiosity. While hoping for the best, I prepared myself for another mediocre Hollywood adaptation. I was not expecting an outright butchery. This film is completely devoid of any of the depth, nuance, or intelligence that made the franchise special. In its place are some of the most tired cliches and terrible writing I've seen. The plot is painfully unoriginal and predictable; the dialogue is drab and unnatural, characters lack any personality or dimension, performances range from mildly interesting to plain awful, visuals are cribbed superficially, even the action is unremarkable despite all the flash. The whole thing basically screams, "hackneyed and lazy". The worst part, however, is how dumb it treats the viewer. Everything must be spelled out as plainly as possible, having no faith in the audience to pick up anything on their own. I didn't mean to sound so snobby when I sat down to write this review, but it's as appropriate here as it ever is. This is a stupid movie that took a brilliant property and packaged it for stupid people. If there's any shred of consolation it's that perhaps it will intrigue newcomers enough to explore the rest of the franchise. I just wish it wasn't making such a bad first impression in the process.… Expand

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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6

Rebecca31Mar 31, 2017

Scarlett Johansson is the first of her kind, cyber-enhanced to be the perfect soldier, built to fight against dangerous criminals. Enter Michael pouty Pitt in a hoodie. Johansson is without a doubt the best thing in this movie, great castingScarlett Johansson is the first of her kind, cyber-enhanced to be the perfect soldier, built to fight against dangerous criminals. Enter Michael pouty Pitt in a hoodie. Johansson is without a doubt the best thing in this movie, great casting choice. Pitt’s character was built up well and then seriously neglected . I never liked the original movie and I was rather enjoying this up until about the halfway mark then it seemed to descend into a predictable boring mess. Disappointing to say the least. There’s nothing new about the story, it has numerous elements from other movies and you’ll see all the apparent plot twists well before they happen. And if you don’t well then you haven’t been paying attention. Perhaps you’ve been distracted by the spectacular visual effects and why wouldn’t you be? The attention to detail was mesmerizing. No I didn’t see it in 3D but I didn’t have to, the effort that went into all the effects clearly speaks for itself. Recommended for all you sci-fi fans.… Expand

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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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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6

SecretS1xApr 11, 2017

Being a fan of the anime and the TV show, I went into the cinema with some expectation of what I would get. Yes, the special effects were there but in some cases great (cyborg designs) and in other cases very poor (...almost everything else.)Being a fan of the anime and the TV show, I went into the cinema with some expectation of what I would get. Yes, the special effects were there but in some cases great (cyborg designs) and in other cases very poor (...almost everything else.) Many scenes featured too much CG that led to seemingly different shot movies melded together. There may have been too much left unexplained during the movie which could leave many confused, and the most intriguing character (the villain) was underused. The action and Scar-Jo's performance were excellent though, however I left the cinema thinking I would be fine if I never saw that film again...… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

sandbornApr 5, 2017

Looks and sounds great, but the movie keeps audience at a distance. I found myself getting into it and getting out of it at times. When two characters had a private conversation, I felt like I was out of the loop. As for ScarJo, she wasLooks and sounds great, but the movie keeps audience at a distance. I found myself getting into it and getting out of it at times. When two characters had a private conversation, I felt like I was out of the loop. As for ScarJo, she was totally awesome in it! Too bad the movie wasn't better but it still has charm.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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6

thoodeeMar 31, 2017

Like you already probably read, the flick definitely is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. They really did the anime justice as far as the look of the world created. The movie was overall entertaining and definitely worth the watch. However,Like you already probably read, the flick definitely is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. They really did the anime justice as far as the look of the world created. The movie was overall entertaining and definitely worth the watch. However, I do I wish the story and the characters could have been more thought out and dove deeper. For example, showing more of the struggle for the major in keeping her humanity, or making the audience more empathetic to the terrorist. The movies biggest fault is it was kinda hard to really care for any of these characters. Again though, not as bad as many other critics have made it out to be.… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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6

QuietCoyoteApr 13, 2017

A visually stunning movie that was a pretty decent popcorn flick, but was very shallow and full of painful cliches. It's arguably more entertaining and reaches a wider audience than the original movie, but loses the majority of it'sA visually stunning movie that was a pretty decent popcorn flick, but was very shallow and full of painful cliches. It's arguably more entertaining and reaches a wider audience than the original movie, but loses the majority of it's philosophical intensity in the process. Many scenes from the original seemed shoehorned in and lost their impact in the process. The character of Major was botched as it feels too broody, hopeless, sad, and mopey compared to the original major who was wise-cracking, relatively cheerful, and at peace with who she was. Perhaps that wouldn't be a problem if one hasn't seen the original, which i suspect the majority of moviegoers haven't. It was still bothersome for me.

Overall, it was okay. It was fun, but not amazing. It wasn't that memorable aside from the gorgeous special effects, and would be a decent redbox or netflix movie.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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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

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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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

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

NihilisticApr 2, 2017

Though successful as an adaptation, it is far from the potential of the franchise.

Yes, I do understand how risky it is for Hollywood to do an adaptation of a Japanese animation/comic series, and I acknowledge that the release of this filmThough successful as an adaptation, it is far from the potential of the franchise.

Yes, I do understand how risky it is for Hollywood to do an adaptation of a Japanese animation/comic series, and I acknowledge that the release of this film is an amazing achievement itself. However, it didn't meet many of my expectations for what I expect from a "good" movie. Let's talk visuals first. CGI and graphic design wise, it is very appealing and was satisfying to watch. But the aesthetics left a gaping hole in my heart, and my problem wasn't with the 16:9 ratio on a cinema screen. A lot of the camera shots were far from aesthetically pleasing, and there were some scenes that were far from doing the animated series justice. However, the (potential spoilers) death scene at the end exceeded that of the animation. The visuals were probably the best part of the movie. The sound and music was mediocre, but I pay them little attention so they will not affect the score much. My probably was with the pacing, packing two seasons worth of animation into 1 hour and 40 minutes wasn't a smart move. It made the characters even more of an empty shell than what they originally were, just like a ghost in a shell. The terrible pacing led to weird developments as well, and I was quite unhappy about that. There were some very subtle plot-changing moments in the film which could have been climatic if the pacing was right. But, once again, it's a miracle that we got a decent adaptation. So I won't complain. Not too much.

I found the dialogue troubling at times, and a lot of it felt quite forced. I'm quite mad at the screenwriters and director for the dialogue which seemed like they took it straight from the animation, without any alteration. By the end of the movie, I felt like I had sat through an action movie, and that was it. I kept me on the edge of my seat at times, and sometimes I tried to stay awake. Thanks to the awkward timing and messiness of the plot. All of that said, it was decent. Not terrible at all.… Expand

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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5

KaptenVideoApr 9, 2017

Based on media franchise of the same name, „Ghost in the Shell“ is the first live-action movie of the seminal cyber epic about human enhanced into super soldier who clashes with dangerous criminals.
In order to add some international starBased on media franchise of the same name, „Ghost in the Shell“ is the first live-action movie of the seminal cyber epic about human enhanced into super soldier who clashes with dangerous criminals.
In order to add some international star power, the main hero – originally Asian – has turned into sexy and nimble white girl (Scarlett Johansson), the choice surely liked by many and despised by some more hard-core fans. And adding some street cred, there is legendary director Takeshi Kitano supporting her.
There are– or at least one can perceive – nods to all kinds of mind-bending sci-fi classics that have gone before, „The Matrix“ and „Assassin’s Creed“ among others.
The gravity-defying asskicking and futuristic environments sure look good, with all the gigantic holograms dominating the cityscape and everything.
Sadly it does not really feel like a living breathing world – it’s much more like a videogame. So you may not remember it long after watching but it’s competent if unoriginal vision of what futuristic looks like.
What the fans of previous „Ghost in the Shell“ incarnations – especially manga and anime – may lament about is the horribly simplified approach that the western movie makers has used. But if you don’t know or care about the legacy, the first live-action movie may quench some thirst for futuristic action. The result is not bad, really. It’s just not terribly involving either.
It’s not gonna become a megahit, because for all the good looks it’s too niche for general audience and probably too shallow for manga or anime heads.
Oh well. At least we get an idea about how the coming „Blade Runner“ sequel and Marvel’s Black Widow movie(s) may look like.
There’s a fully functional spiritual side to the story, and it’s actually much more exciting to follow events this way. But all the spiritual stuff has been pushed to the background and is mentioned only in passing.
So it can’t effectively compensate for the shallowness of the main plot or sure-handed but emotionally distant style which never lets you close to the characters. The potential is all there, but the result will leave many a bit unsatisfied.
Watched it in 3D. Didn’t think the extra D added enough to justify its existence.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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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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4

thedaywalkerApr 2, 2017

Not worth my money
If there's a word to describe this movie, it's obvious... The first 30 minutes can tell you the whole plot of the movie
Generic characters and obvious plot, with a 3rd act with A LOT more to be desired The first act wasNot worth my money
If there's a word to describe this movie, it's obvious... The first 30 minutes can tell you the whole plot of the movie
Generic characters and obvious plot, with a 3rd act with A LOT more to be desired
The first act was very good with very good visual, but this movie misses in places it shouldn't… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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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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2

bkristmanApr 8, 2017

Reviewing this from the trailer that showed quite enough for me to know it's a bad film.Not worth paying to see. The whole draw is to show Scarjo in a skin tight body suit and they didn't take long to get to it.
The dialogue was sad and sheReviewing this from the trailer that showed quite enough for me to know it's a bad film.Not worth paying to see. The whole draw is to show Scarjo in a skin tight body suit and they didn't take long to get to it.
The dialogue was sad and she is not a good actress so it was even worse.
Looks incredibly boring. From the ones i've seen anime is really hard to do properly in live action and these guys didn't do it either.
I'd rather watch an old Cutey Honey live action tape i have.
Much better.… Expand

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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6

PotaeSuprakitApr 6, 2017

Ghost in the Shell succeeds in adjusting, despite some problems.
See a little disappointing review, see fun hero scarlett johansson.
Ghost in the Shell has been adapted from the original, beloved and beloved content to understand what makesGhost in the Shell succeeds in adjusting, despite some problems.
See a little disappointing review, see fun hero scarlett johansson.
Ghost in the Shell has been adapted from the original, beloved and beloved content to understand what makes this franchise special and work well on the big screen. It looks good and does not feel like it is just copying the anime and the beauty of the manga instead of capturing what makes them separate to begin with. This stumbled in the third act and did not bring the point to a satisfactory conclusion. But Ghost in the Shell successfully solved the problem.… 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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4

badhairdayApr 2, 2017

This movie is a big load of nothing. It is the most aggressively bland movie I have ever watched. It was if the director slopped lukewarm spaghetti-o's down onto a plate and handed it to me. There was absolutely no heart in this movie, theThis movie is a big load of nothing. It is the most aggressively bland movie I have ever watched. It was if the director slopped lukewarm spaghetti-o's down onto a plate and handed it to me. There was absolutely no heart in this movie, the only character that gave me any twinge of emotion was her mother. Visually the movie looked great. The writing was boring and uninspired. This movie holds your hand throughout and treats the audience as if they do not have a brain. Or should I say "your soul, your 'ghost'." Absolutely pitiful script and I feel for Johansson and her supporting cast for having to read it. However bad it was they did their best with the material they were given. Throw in some sloppily applied lines about finding out who Johansson's character is and how she should view herself as either a robot or human that have the depth of a roadside puddle, and you have a forgettable, safe, and slightly insulting film that does little to no justice to its verbose and much more impactful source material.

4/10 for its good looks, the adequate job the cast did with so little to work with, and the absolute disregard shown in honoring the source material.… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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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

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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

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Ghost in the Shell

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