Ghost In The Shell 2 - Innocence Details

Bloody Hell

I just saw this film in the cinema, and without doubt it is the most visually stunning piece of cinema I have ever seen.

The CG, having moved on in the 8 or so years since the original Ghost was released, sits much happier with the traditional cell animation resulting in something I ve never experienced before.

The first 15 minutes completely blew me away and I thought the film was on for five stars. However, the director takes the film on a slightly muddled journey of philosophical thought about the notions of self and existence that become a little tedious at times (although one always has to expect a little of this from anime movies). The dialogue too is a bit poncy; quotation after quotation from various great thinkers.

The film's awesome set action pieces on the other hand keep it afloat.

I think this film is best watched in the cinema or at the least on a big tv with a descent sound system to blast out the amazing sound design.

If you like a bit of maturity in your films or are an anime fan then definately see this film.

[Highly rated reviewer]

Complex but Beautiful

This is everything everybody has claimed it to be in terms of visual flare. The seamless combination of animation techniques, handdrawn and CG. The Ghost in the Shell world is a testiment to the influence of the rain-washed neon Bladerunner. Bright and shiny technology combined with a dark and dingy underworld. The colours used and the glare technique is just a wonder to watch. Pay attention when Batou takes a trip aboard the bird like copter/plane, breathtaking. The futuristic styling is contrasted with old cars etc in typical manga style reminiscent of Final Fantasy VII.

However, amongst all this beauty is a very concept-heavy philosophical story. Fans of the Ghost in the Shell film and series will be prepared for this. Newbies may find themselves lost in endless quotes and theories. Ghost in the Shell certainly requires multiple viewings before its entirity will be understood. But I believe that the combination of beauty and intellectual story was what made the first Ghost in the Shell so popular in the first place.

Just sit back and enjoy the show. If you like things simple, turn off the sound and just watch the view.