Ghost in the Shell (2017) – Film Review

Though there were some stunning visuals and a great soundtrack the story had one major flaw that hurt my enjoyment of the film. The twist in the film — I don’t understand the decisions not to edit that part to make the overall tone deafness of the writers less apparent, as well to all of those involved. But beside that I am glad that they have pushed this property to a live action format. Scarlett Johansson does a great job as the character “The Major.”

The visual language the film’s world was very accurately portrayed in 3D. This is one of the few films that I can say was clearly meticulously done in post. I do appreciate when studios take the time to make sure the use the 3D to help enhance the film and not just seem like a cash grab. There was very strong depth of field and great visuals that it had a great visual language you wanted to touch. The special effects overall were great. The world felt very well-lived in that I appreciated it. It didn’t feel cold or unauthentic.

We cling to memories as if they define us, but they don’t. What we do is what defines us.

What I really liked about the material is the concepts about self identity, gender and who you are is more than just your skin. Everyone is a human no matter what but I feel the film didn’t explore that material enough to be thought provoking. This film also covers racial identity, but fails to not alleviate the controversy over Scarlett Johansson’s casting, but actually make it worse.

Overall I would say it is an enjoyable film that has its moments. It doesn’t succeed in having anything groundbreaking like the anime and isn’t able to overcome the delay in bringing this to live action. This property I recommend should go to television. It would be a stronger crime thriller series in live-action.
Worth the 3D price.

7/10