Ghost in the Shell
Paramount Pictures | Release Date: March 31, 2017
6.8
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 1027 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
646
Mixed:
236
Negative:
145
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5
RoballnApr 3, 2017
While it does hold good sci-fi features and some great action/futuristic visuals, on top of a real good acting by Scarlet Johansson, on average the film fails tu build up to its source material. As the film goes, some parts feel rather slowWhile it does hold good sci-fi features and some great action/futuristic visuals, on top of a real good acting by Scarlet Johansson, on average the film fails tu build up to its source material. As the film goes, some parts feel rather slow while others seem to be on a rush for the mere sake of moving the plot.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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3
chrislcwApr 2, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Just a typical cyborg action eyes candy action film with cliche dialogue and bland action scenes.
The "superhero on roof top" ending scene is making this film really cheap. 1 star for the title, 1 star for Scarlett Johansson, 1 star for the stunning Geisha props from Weta Workshop.… Expand
0 of 8 users found this helpful08
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3
wrayc954Apr 2, 2017
Typically I decide whether to watch a movie based on the actors involved. So, ScarJo ... meh, not my fav but against my better judgement, I saw it regardless. I mean "LUCY" was not that bad, was it? Should have followed my instincts. To beginTypically I decide whether to watch a movie based on the actors involved. So, ScarJo ... meh, not my fav but against my better judgement, I saw it regardless. I mean "LUCY" was not that bad, was it? Should have followed my instincts. To begin with, I have never, nor in this movie, found ScarJo to be compelling. Bad acting... bad script ... left me utterly disinterested by the end of the movie which mercifully, I missed the climax refilling my popcorn .... but I was just glad it was over. Felt bad that juliette binoche was in this stink bomb. What a waste of talent. The one redeeming point of this evening was ... seeing a different movie, "LIFE", which I had intended to see to begin with. So if you have not seen "ghost" yet, then skip it and see "LIFE" instead and your money will be better spent. This is the last time will will be giving ScarJo the benefit of the doubt.… Expand
0 of 9 users found this helpful09
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2
stevecamApr 3, 2017
The special effects were great, but the movie lacked depth, was very empty, did not make you think, very disconnected with any of the original work
You might enjoy this if you have not heard of Ghost in the Shell, if you are a fan don'tThe special effects were great, but the movie lacked depth, was very empty, did not make you think, very disconnected with any of the original work
You might enjoy this if you have not heard of Ghost in the Shell, if you are a fan don't bother, you will just feel like walking out half way through watching the movie… Expand
0 of 9 users found this helpful09
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6
CalumRhysUKApr 3, 2017
Visually, Rupert Sanders's adaptation of 'Ghost in the Shell' is stunning, featuring gorgeous cinematography and mind-blowing CGI, oh and of course Scarlett Johansson - but then there's EVERYTHING else about it.

Firstly, don't get me wrong,Visually, Rupert Sanders's adaptation of 'Ghost in the Shell' is stunning, featuring gorgeous cinematography and mind-blowing CGI, oh and of course Scarlett Johansson - but then there's EVERYTHING else about it.

Firstly, don't get me wrong, 'Ghost in the Shell' is far from a bad film, but equally it's far from being an excellent film, maybe just balancing above mediocre, and the reason for this is down to the clichéd and convoluted storyline, underdeveloped two-dimensional characters and lack of relation to its source material - but as I stated above, visually this film is a marvel. The original version of 'Ghost in the Shell' was one of the first anime films I ever had the chance to see, and whilst it does delve into the "weird" side of anime at parts, it is nonetheless an abstract piece of art and still stands the test of time as one of the finest anime films, however this will never come near that.

So what are the memorable qualities in this film? Um, there's, um... well there's Scarlett Johansson when she... um... yeah. Virtually nothing. It depicts a metropolitan future on an almost frightening note - but that's been done before time and time again. In this future, around 70% of humanity have cyborg-like alterations made to their body, and the general vistas of the city, whilst stunning, add an almost claustrophobic quality to them. Tight smothering streets, and enough fluorescent lights to make 'Blade Runner' jealous.

The story itself is rather straight forward, a woman is cybernetically-enhanced and forced to act as a weapon to prevent the occurrence of "terrorism" and "hacking", however along the way she begins to uncover more about her past and how she became the titular "ghost in the shell". But the problem is, this plot is clichéd to hell, and characters dash in and out of the story never having any real relevance within the movie's world, including the concluding villain (don't worry, no spoilers here). It tries to be smart, but just ends up convoluted and over-blown.

All-in-all it's a fair attempt at an adaptation, which is more than can be said for Sanders's film before. But it just falls short in too many places to really make its mark as a sci-fi great. If we were just there for the visuals, this film would be near-masterful, but that's not the case here.… Expand
0 of 5 users found this helpful05
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0
restatementsApr 4, 2017
Looks good and visually pleasing and that's about it. I was born and raised on the original anime and this is no where near what it was supposed to be. Westernized, soul-less, and simplified for the general populace. Really a sadLooks good and visually pleasing and that's about it. I was born and raised on the original anime and this is no where near what it was supposed to be. Westernized, soul-less, and simplified for the general populace. Really a sad adaptation. I wish they had just left the classic alone.

Even with the debacle surrounding the casting of SJ as Major Motoko Kusanagi, ignoring that piece. It still is severely lacking.… Expand
0 of 9 users found this helpful09
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6
TropicalPaganApr 10, 2017
Its and entertaining movie with great visuals, but they managed to reduce a thought invoking anime into a mindless popcorn flick devoid of soul.

Johansson's incarnation is on point, if you ignore the obvious whitewashing of the character,Its and entertaining movie with great visuals, but they managed to reduce a thought invoking anime into a mindless popcorn flick devoid of soul.

Johansson's incarnation is on point, if you ignore the obvious whitewashing of the character, and the cheap excuse they give within the movie to justify it. Nevertheless she manages to present a cohesive character. The supporting cast is good too.

All in all, its an entertaining movie, though as I've stated before it lacks the philosophical nuances that made the original so endearing. It focuses on action to action a la Transformers… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
LucascastawayApr 14, 2017
Filme com um visual lindo, em algumas partes irritantes chega a ser ate irritante para o olho humano ( mais nao iterfere em nada a qualidade do filme ) cenas de a ação Boas
Mais não achei um dos melhores filmes que assisti Roteiro com algumasFilme com um visual lindo, em algumas partes irritantes chega a ser ate irritante para o olho humano ( mais nao iterfere em nada a qualidade do filme ) cenas de a ação Boas
Mais não achei um dos melhores filmes que assisti Roteiro com algumas falhas Emfim Nota 6.5… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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3
BackbiteJun 12, 2017
This Ghost in the Shell mashed together old plot-points from the series in a jarring way. Had this movie attempted to use an entirely original plot it would've been way better. But plot aside, as an action movie or a movie in the cyberpunkThis Ghost in the Shell mashed together old plot-points from the series in a jarring way. Had this movie attempted to use an entirely original plot it would've been way better. But plot aside, as an action movie or a movie in the cyberpunk genre in general it does well.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
ron1971Jun 24, 2017
Considering the character look of the Ghost in the Shell animation I think it would have been better if they had gotten someone more generic lookin instead of Scarlet Johansson: she has a very unique distinct look that for me doesnt work.Considering the character look of the Ghost in the Shell animation I think it would have been better if they had gotten someone more generic lookin instead of Scarlet Johansson: she has a very unique distinct look that for me doesnt work. From what I have seen the acting of her is pretty solid but still she really doesnt look at all as the character in the animation even with the black hair the way they have modelled it in accordance with the animation character. In fact I dont even think the hairstyle fits with her face to be honest. Also her voice is too low. Furthermore in the animation she was externally a female but in the movie I dont know the scenes where you would see that she has some kind of suit covering the body or that is the body. The whole idea of a cyborg is to fool people into believing that she is a real human being and then externally it has to look like a normal human body. I saw 10 cloverfield lane and the actress in that movie Mary Elizabeth Winstead would way better fit the looks for the main character, sorry Scarlett. In addition the movie: it looks too over the top bombarding us with all these visuals so we dont even recognise it as taking place in our world. And in conclusion I think they should have left the original alone and instead of basically kind of having the same story, made a new movie from scratch like what has happened with stand alone complex. Or they should have made it into a sequel.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
gallagosJul 23, 2017
I created an account just so I could give this movie a rating. As a movie based on the Shell universe, 3/10. As a stand alone, 4/10, the only saving grace is it's visuals. Any homage is used poorly, and the characters lack the depth theI created an account just so I could give this movie a rating. As a movie based on the Shell universe, 3/10. As a stand alone, 4/10, the only saving grace is it's visuals. Any homage is used poorly, and the characters lack the depth the original creations. This is a true disappointment.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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0
LifesabummerAug 15, 2017
I joined this site just for this review. I had to comment on the absolute turd of a movie this was and anyone that gives it a good review has never seen the original or has no appreciation for it. Meaning you just thought it was a cartoon.I joined this site just for this review. I had to comment on the absolute turd of a movie this was and anyone that gives it a good review has never seen the original or has no appreciation for it. Meaning you just thought it was a cartoon. I had read some poor professional reviews at first and see now that I have seen the the movie that they were spot on. The essence of the movie and its characters were completely lost. The fact that she was american/Caucasian was to me not important as the major was a synthetic being anyway so race wasn't an issue. Everything was lost in translation I guess you could say. Terrible movie even if they did steal a few scenes from the original it was completely lost otherwise. Obviously my curiosity got the best of me and I rented it and there is six dollars and two hours I will never get back. Shame. The original was ahead of its time and very deep. This shallow turd should have been left on the cutting room floor.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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0
BobersDec 13, 2017
I had high hopes, but it was too shallow.
I dont normaly like Anime, but the original Anime is worth a watch, and in many ways the animation style makes the universe feel just that extra bit more alien
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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10
ty92Dec 26, 2019
Great movie. Scarlett Johansson is incredible in one of her best performances. Great sci-fi movie that reminds me of Blade Runner 2049 in some ways. The action scenes are entertaining and gorgeous to look at. The story is also strong here andGreat movie. Scarlett Johansson is incredible in one of her best performances. Great sci-fi movie that reminds me of Blade Runner 2049 in some ways. The action scenes are entertaining and gorgeous to look at. The story is also strong here and has a good ending that doesn't disappoint. Its a well done adaptation from the 1995 Ghost in the Shell anime. I recommend watching that first so you can really appreciate what they did here.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
amheretojudgeApr 26, 2018
initiate project 2571..

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

Ghost In The Shell

It is perfect for all the comic fans as the throwbacks to all the sketchy characters, unusual powers and the origin story is depicted in here but in terms of an individual feature it barely gives you a lose thread to hold on to it. Rupert Sanders' execution skills are surprisingly good but unfortunately the script didn't have enough material to feed off the audience for more than 100 minutes. Scarlett Johansson seems like a good choice to cast upon on such a role and her effort is appreciative too but despite of revolving the tale completely around her, the script doesn't offer enough range to flaunt her skills on screen. Ghost In The Shell has a decent background score, amazing visual effects and stunning make-up artist behind it but addition to that it doesn't have anything fresh in terms of plotline or even action sequences which is usually essential in such features that relies a lot upon such stuff.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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3
djniceyApr 13, 2020
This really is a shell of a movie, the visuals are pretty good but there is no substance, it boring, predictable and extremely cliched.

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

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

The action scenes were OK but the acting is wooden and unconvincing, I didn't care for the characters or the story so in the end just gave up on it.… Expand
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6
wesker2012Mar 1, 2018
This movie captures the visual essence of the anime expertly and brings it to the big screen. Unfortunately, it turns the anime's thought-provoking content into an extremely simple, bland, and predictable plot/storyline. What we end up withThis movie captures the visual essence of the anime expertly and brings it to the big screen. Unfortunately, it turns the anime's thought-provoking content into an extremely simple, bland, and predictable plot/storyline. What we end up with is a generic, run of the mill sci fi action movie with cool visuals.… Expand
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4
SpangleAug 23, 2017
For a film about a brain that gets put into a terrorist fighting robot, Rupert Sanders' Ghost in the Shell sure is dull and conventional. Blowing the budget on special effects and a beautiful score, Ghost in the Shell apparently could notFor a film about a brain that gets put into a terrorist fighting robot, Rupert Sanders' Ghost in the Shell sure is dull and conventional. Blowing the budget on special effects and a beautiful score, Ghost in the Shell apparently could not spare a dime for an overhauled script that was not so pale, cliche, and run-of-the-mill. A classic tale of a dedicated-to-the-law hero who slowly discovers that everything they thought was true is not true, the bad guy is actually good, and those helping them are actually the bad ones, Ghost in the Shell feels impeccably shallow, forgettable, and shockingly boring. While a visual splendor at every turn, Ghost in the Shell's success is skin deep with no beating heart to keep its blood pumping and no charm to be found whatsoever in this science fiction action film.

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

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

The film’s storyline really does not do the film’s strengths any justice either whatsoever. Largely about a new program that puts human brains into robot bodies to make warriors, Ghost in the Shell ditches its heady ideas about augmentation and then blending of human with mechanical in favor of becoming just another film about cover-ups. On the surface, it could be interesting with the mysterious Kuze (Michael Pitt) infecting robots and using them to kill the scientists on some highly secretive project. A compelling character given a strong rendition by Pitt, Kuze winds up just being a character with a vengeance that is being hunted by the people who are actually evil, who use the unwitting Major to do their bidding. Revealing he is actually good and there to help Major, only to die seconds later, Ghost in the Shell is a lazily written and unimaginative film with a derivative and dull plot.… Expand
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6
shepard75Sep 2, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A little bit disapointing, regarding the way of the kind of the story telling (like driving a car with activated hand brake). Although Scarlett does a great job and shows a super performance, like i'm used from her. But i'm also used to see better movies with her.… Expand
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5
LeZeeFeb 4, 2018
Too late to come out to impress its fans!

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

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

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

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

5/10… Expand
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6
BrianMcCriticJan 14, 2018
As someone who has never seen the original anime, the things I appreciated about this film was the look and characters. The problem comes with the story as it drags at times and is never completely as captivating as it seems to be. B-
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2
HurleyJul 20, 2017
Just watched 2017 Ghost in the Shell. I had very low expectations and I can categorically state my going in expectations were not even approached. It seemed like a vehicle for some ok effects with no plot, no real atmosphere (seriously anJust watched 2017 Ghost in the Shell. I had very low expectations and I can categorically state my going in expectations were not even approached. It seemed like a vehicle for some ok effects with no plot, no real atmosphere (seriously an effectively empty city with no garbage & dirt?), lots of flaws (people smoking in a clean room environment), etc.

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

The time spent watching the movie is some time I could have done something much more useful like trimming my nose hairs!!… Expand
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6
ozymandias79Aug 25, 2017
This live action version wasn't terrible and I was expecting garbage. The visuals are great but it doesn't handle the deeper themes of the anime very well. Also, ScaJo was a poor casting choice. She's a little bit too knock-kneed to play a cyborg.
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8
HealingToolbox1Sep 16, 2017
Review title: Team Machine vs. Team Human 101 for younger generations

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

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

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

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

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

The "ghost" of the original Bladerunner is apparent, as many reviewers note. This leads into how I would write Ghost in the Shell 2: Identify the conflict of values you wish to target (individuality of the human soul, justice as a choice souls can make... vs. Team Machine, all the forces making humans more machine like and un-feeling). Then imagine how to SHOW not tell this conflict in visual terms. Perhaps even with this structural clarity, it's still challenging to beat or go beyond the script accomplishments of the first Blade Runner movie.… Expand
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7
iCronicAug 7, 2017
I didn't see the original but the trailer was insane so I was hyped. Certainly not the masterpiece I hoped for. Some parts felt clunky and unpolished, a handful of CGI scenes were straight up bad, especially during the end fight. Other scenesI didn't see the original but the trailer was insane so I was hyped. Certainly not the masterpiece I hoped for. Some parts felt clunky and unpolished, a handful of CGI scenes were straight up bad, especially during the end fight. Other scenes were amazing, the rare soundtrack was great and overall I liked Ghost in the Shell… Expand
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10
Kai82May 21, 2022
I had low anticipations and expected a bad movie when we entered the cinema. Instead I say it is a faithful adaptation and a really good movie. Lets start with the elephant in the room. A lot of people said Scarlett Johansson as mainI had low anticipations and expected a bad movie when we entered the cinema. Instead I say it is a faithful adaptation and a really good movie. Lets start with the elephant in the room. A lot of people said Scarlett Johansson as main character was “whitewashing”. Those have not seen the movie or understood the story. It is a fundamental point in the story, logical and functional. I give an explanation at the end with a spoiler warning. Back to the review. Ghost in the Shell is one of my favorite franchise. I see it as a realistic prediction of the future except that I think those changes will take longer in real life. It is based on the Manga by Masamune Shirow and the Anime from 1995 is a true masterpiece. It has a Cyberpunk setting and plays in 2029. Many humans have augmented bodies (Cyborgs) as those have advantages like computer interfaces, more durability, strength and adaptations for many tasks. Unmodified humans are already viewed as inferior. However crime has also evolved as you can hack into these parts or brains or use those augmented bodies for crimes not possible before. The main characters work for the special unit Section 9 that is specialized in those fields. Protagonist Miria Killian is the first human with a fully artificial body (except brain) who got it after surviving a terrorist attack as she and her family searched refuge in Japan. She works for Section 9 and is indebted to Hanka Robotics who gave her the new body. As they explore a crime she finds strange traces that will change everything. I end this here to avoid spoilers. The story is different from the Anime and I say it is a good decision as they cant improve the original. Other adaptations failed horrible in this regard. The story is familiar and refreshing at the same time. It works from start to finish and we left very satisfied the cinema. The actors are well chosen. Scarlett Johansson is brilliantly good and I see this as strength of the movie. Pilou Asbaek is a fitting Batou that nails his role. Takeshi Kitano is one of my favorite actors and that he plays Daisuke Aramaki is incredibly good. I must also praise Juliette Binoche as Dr. Ouelet and Peter Ferdinando as Cutter. A truly good cats. The sets, costumes and special effects capture the feeling of the source material and enhance the movie. Overall I see this as one of a few good live action adaptations and like that they do not attempt to improve the original. Compare it to Cowboy Bebop for example. I give a 10/10 as it was a positive surprise. Spoiler warning: The experiments with the artificial bodies by Hanka Robotics are highly risky and have a lot of illegal components. They wanted human guinea pigs that will not be missed. They use members of an underground movement that protested against the government as those will not be missed in a greater scale. Even more they hide Motoko Kusanagi as Mira Killian who is a foreigner and refuge that has no relatives. If something happens to her not many questions will be asked. Just look how refugees are treated in the EU, USA or other countries and no one cares in a greater scale (Observations not my beliefs!)… Expand
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5
MattBrady99Sep 3, 2017
"Ghost in the Shell" is probably the most decent adaptation based on anime we got compared to previous attempts. However, as a stand alone film it struggles to be remembered since it's release. For someone who has heard about the anime, but"Ghost in the Shell" is probably the most decent adaptation based on anime we got compared to previous attempts. However, as a stand alone film it struggles to be remembered since it's release. For someone who has heard about the anime, but hasn't seen it, the movie at least did a good job of world building to get me interested.

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

Putting the controversy aside, it's a decent film with a lot of things going for it. It's not going to stick in my memory by the end of the week, but at least I watch to judge for myself, not like some.… Expand
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6
muzmuzSep 23, 2017
Honestly expecting something a bit better due to Pilou Asbæk and Scarlett Johannson on the roster; but Ghost in the Shell failed to deliver with its lack of depth and unexciting story in spite of the redeeming characteristics present.
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10
DioGrenAug 3, 2017
Good, this film better last transformers.

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

Atmosfere + Have Soul + Good music Clint Mansell & Lorne Balfe - Shelling Sequence - Ghost in the Shell Soundtrack (2017)
and GitS (2017) OST - 30 - Spider Tank (pliz add to osts music - all ost, its 2017 in the window)… Expand
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4
HTGamerSep 10, 2017
I never knew of the Ghost in the Shell anime until the movie was announced, so my review is from the point of view of a non-fan.

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

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

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

As a stand-alone film, Ghost in the Shell is not bad, but it is forgettable. As an anime adaptation it also disappoints.… Expand
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1
Chiscokid88Dec 22, 2017
A huge misrepresentation of the character. Scarlet Johansson has no idea what the character was meant to represent. One of the worst films of 2017.
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7
sonic1340Sep 22, 2017
It's pretty good nothing as good as the original but as a film it isn't bad at all. I would recommend it to people who like cyberpunk films. Or to people who need a popcorn flick.
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7
daviddelnorte23Aug 8, 2017
La promo de esta película cuando se estrenó me recuerda a una buena época mía, y seguramente vaya a recordar más el cartel que la propia película. Un film que está bien, pero es que me estaba recordando a Blade runner, la cual he visto muyLa promo de esta película cuando se estrenó me recuerda a una buena época mía, y seguramente vaya a recordar más el cartel que la propia película. Un film que está bien, pero es que me estaba recordando a Blade runner, la cual he visto muy recientemente. La sensación de esto ya lo he visto, propició que la película quedara a mis ojos durante todo el metraje en un simple espectáculo visual y de entretenimiento, más que de intentar sacar alguna conclusión de lo que te están contando. Aún así es una película divertida y competente dentro de su género y pretensiones. Se nota que es una adaptación de manga japonés, factor que no me agrada,y quizá eso también haga que inconscientemente la viera con menos "gusto".… Expand
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8
Dr4gonkiller96Jul 12, 2017
I haven't seen the original 3 anime movies or the Anime show itself, but from what i have seen in small snippets or the start of the first movie, there is a lot of stuff in this Live Action film that captures the original source perfectly,I haven't seen the original 3 anime movies or the Anime show itself, but from what i have seen in small snippets or the start of the first movie, there is a lot of stuff in this Live Action film that captures the original source perfectly, from the way Major looks, to the incredible sound effects and Soundtrack. The story is easy to follow and there is no plot holes as most of the stuff is scratching your head until later when it finally makes sense with them filling the gaps from earlier on. there is a lot of cultural diversity in this, and it being set in a far future Japan, the major (hehe) of the cast and civilians are Japanese, which is was a good choice. they made Scarlet Johannson Major because she looks the part, and what i can remember of the original source, she was meant to be Caucasian, which she is. the action is good, and the invisible fight scenes were spot on. it could be better, but at least it wasn't utter **** well worth the watch, as it does the fan service justice. some people who watched the originals might seem it boring, because most of the time when this happens, is because they have seen it already in the originals, and well that is normal for anything, not that its bad, just that they expected it. so for all the people whitewashing the films, if the Japanese like it and dont mind why the **** would you care, it is based off a japanese anime for god sake, and i think the origin of the franchise would know if the movie was good or not… Expand
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8
Puddleboy112Apr 6, 2017
very very interesting story this movie is a great action film with some good moments and some bad moments , CGI is good, is have a beautiful cyberpunk world, soundtrack is nice and Scarlett Johansson is doing har best I really like thevery very interesting story this movie is a great action film with some good moments and some bad moments , CGI is good, is have a beautiful cyberpunk world, soundtrack is nice and Scarlett Johansson is doing har best I really like the chemistry with Major and Batou i am so a ready for a sequel… Expand
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6
eva3si0nJan 13, 2018
I didn't watch the orinalny animated film and the manga especially. At all not the fan of the Japanese culture, I don't understand. It was interesting to me Ghost in the Shell was only because it is the real cyberpunk who is guided by theI didn't watch the orinalny animated film and the manga especially. At all not the fan of the Japanese culture, I don't understand. It was interesting to me Ghost in the Shell was only because it is the real cyberpunk who is guided by the reference. And the movie has caused full disappointment. Or picturized badly, or it is the Japanese style. But the same Blade Runner 2049 looks a cut above. In Ghost in the Shell characters don't manage to reveal, history too trivial and boring. The world around is registered not up to the end. A lot of things stay behind scenes. It is a pity that the movie was such mediocre cyberpunk, even the fine game Scarlett Johansson hasn't saved.… Expand
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3
BroyaxAug 12, 2017
Le miracle n'a pas eu lieu et cette adaptation du manga déjà adapté en plusieurs animes n'a pas pu valider son passage dans la classe supérieure, à savoir le film réel triple A aux multiples millions de dollars.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Il reste une réalisation de bon aloi et de jolis effets spéciaux et même... une musique plutôt correcte. Mais bon sang, qu'on est loin de l'esprit, du "ghost" de Ghost in the Shell !… Expand
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8
DominArsenDec 8, 2018
Ghost In The Shell
Ce film est magnifique! c'est filmé avec beaucoup de style ! Pour une rencontre éclectique entre matrix, Terminator, Avatar, Robocop
Je ne rajoute rien tout simplement parce que c'est un bon film qui aura le mérite d'uneGhost In The Shell
Ce film est magnifique! c'est filmé avec beaucoup de style ! Pour une rencontre éclectique entre matrix, Terminator, Avatar, Robocop
Je ne rajoute rien tout simplement parce que c'est un bon film qui aura le mérite d'une excellente soirée.
Seulement j'ai quand même eu du mal avec la posture qu'adopte l'actrice principale (un peux trop Robotique) mais quand on voit l'environnement on est tout à fait capable d'accepter ;)
#Rencontre… Expand
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3
Dragonfly44Nov 28, 2017
Did they even try? Besides a decent performance by Scarlett Johansson, this movie was just bad. The CGI wasn’t even that great. This movie was by far one of the worst adaptations I’ve seen in a while.
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4
DomgwyDec 20, 2017
After a troubled production history and amid a storm of controversy and cries of ‘whitewashing’ 2017 has finally delivered a live action adaptation of the iconic 1995 anime.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

While the 2017 Ghost in the Shell will likely go down as a failure I definitely don’t think we’ve seen the last of the property, especially as the technological concepts of the source material become closer and closer to reality.… Expand
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10
HoboboDec 28, 2017
I liked it. Stayed true to the anime with the amount of time screen time given. I hope Hollywood directors use this film as a guide of how to adapt an anime to film. And look at other movies like DBZ on how not to adapt an anime to film. II liked it. Stayed true to the anime with the amount of time screen time given. I hope Hollywood directors use this film as a guide of how to adapt an anime to film. And look at other movies like DBZ on how not to adapt an anime to film. I feel a lot of criticism comes from people offended that Major is played by a white actress. A Youtuber went around Japan asking people what they think and every Japanese person interviewed didn't care. A lot of them were actually stoked on who they chose to play Major. It really doesn't effect the quality of the film in any way.… Expand
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7
WorldofLuckyFeb 3, 2018
Better than expected when I don't take into account the white washing, although I was still a little disappointed. I would see the sequel because this is one of my genres.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The bad: White washing with a bit trope thrown in.… Expand
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7
caf2042Mar 1, 2018
Ghost in The Shell is directed by Rupert Sander and is the remake of the classic anime. The film has a cool, Blade Runner-esq art style. The story is weak, but the visuals make up for it.
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 26, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a fast paced, futuristic sci fi thriller, with a particularly futuristic urban setting, a bit like what I've seen in clips of Blade Runner and the sort. I can't say I fully followed the plot but I found it an engrossing watch for the most part regardless. There is some pretty decent CGI present and I thought Scarlett Johansson did well playing such a complicated hybrid person/android - she is certainly a curious and determined character, at the least.

I thought this was a decent sci-fi film, although im not a big fan of futuristic style sci-fi films, I'd say this one is worth a watch - the main theme it covers being identity. An intriguing, entertaining watch, with a decent main performance by Johansson.… Expand
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10
AzurisDec 11, 2021
+ Pretty good Visuals
+ Story well adopted
+ Imo the ethical Questions are better in Focus
+ i like the ending more
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5
WedhroMay 17, 2020
Set in a future Japan that looks like Hong Kong and has 99% of japanese people substituted by americans and chinese...

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

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

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

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

It's really a pity because the rest is pure GitS, even if the story could have been more nuanced and political instead of beating on the usual frankestein trope dead horse.… Expand
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6
INU4SH4Nov 16, 2020
While this live-action adaptation retains some of the original animated movie's charm, it is no way near as impactful both artistically and philosophically. While not as visually stunning as the original, this movie still managed to lookWhile this live-action adaptation retains some of the original animated movie's charm, it is no way near as impactful both artistically and philosophically. While not as visually stunning as the original, this movie still managed to look pretty good nonetheless though. The ending also cliche and not that impressive, which was a letdown and the major reason for the low score.

This is a decent watch for GitS fans, but don't get your hopes too high. GitS Stand Alone Complex is still the pinnacle of the series. I also greatly recommend the original movie over this adaptation.… Expand
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6
geewahJan 11, 2021
Not a bad movie, but nothing great either. It is a beautifully shot movie but the story is a bit of a letdown.
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8
BleedingJesterAug 31, 2023
Truly surprised at how good this movie is both visually and story wise I really expected Hollywood to have made another stain on a great Japanese franchise but its basically just a watered-down version of Ghost in the Shell and in some waysTruly surprised at how good this movie is both visually and story wise I really expected Hollywood to have made another stain on a great Japanese franchise but its basically just a watered-down version of Ghost in the Shell and in some ways that means this might be the perfect starting point for those interested in the Franchise… Expand
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9
Embalmer98Jun 10, 2021
malsmdodmofmformllkkmmcnccssaadffiiuuoopprrttemwdmkmsrfm
+++÷÷÷===,,,__._._._.::::;;;"""""》》⊙⊙⊙⊙¡¿◇{}[]⊙,.,.
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9
RichJJan 15, 2023
Solid movie regardless of what the "critics" say. Has the right look and feel of the original very well acted but I will admit the story is a mixed bag. On the story point it's a pro's vs. con's deal seeing how the source material can be aSolid movie regardless of what the "critics" say. Has the right look and feel of the original very well acted but I will admit the story is a mixed bag. On the story point it's a pro's vs. con's deal seeing how the source material can be a bit abstract at times and or hard to follow. I can see why they went in this direction by watering down the story for more mass appeal.For the one's crying foul on the ScarJoe front she plays the major perfectly,stilted and emotionless just like the anime. The major is a real person but all robot and that is conveyed really well in the movie.It's a shame more people didn't take a chance and go see this, people fail to realize by not supporting these types of movies even with minor flaws studios are gonna be less inclined to take risks on materiel of a similar fashion.If your reading this please go watch it and if you feel the same way I do, get on here and leave a positive comment. Cult classics sometimes get a redo.… Expand
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