Review of Ghost in the Shell (2017) by Matthew F. J — 25 Apr 2017

Adapting one of the most brilliant Japanese manga to the screen was always going to be extremely tricky. Mamoru Oshii directed two feature length animated films and did an extraordinary job in doing so.

His American fellow film director Rupert Sanders manages nevertheless with the live action movie to create something of a hybrid. The film has a feel and look similar to what the originals were but the storyline has been greatly simplified for a wide audience since the previous films were highly complex in their narrative forms and tone.

The biggest addition is of course the ethereal presence of Scarlett Johansson which must be by now the biggest film-star of our current times. She portrays the major with charisma but also with a body language that reminds us she is indeed a machines and walks like it.

The supporting cast is excellent with the presence of French actor Juliette Binoche (amazing as always) portraying Dr. Ouelet the creator of the major. Helped in her crusade against crime by Batou (the outstanding Danish actor Pilou Asbaek) and Aramaki (legendary Japanese film-maker and actor Takeshi Kitano).

Michael Pitt for his part, puts on the costume of Kuze, designated 'bad guy' of the investigation and once again delivers one of his finest performances. Although the film is visually striking and the sounds effects are beyond remarquable, the story lacks a little depth and I found it to be far too linear compared with the intricate and complex setting of the original.

Let aside the comparisons, the film turns out to be a solid entertaining piece of modern cinema with lots of action, some breathtaking slow-motion effects and a good dose of wreckage. Give it a shot and make up your own mind.