This story is one not everybody will enjoy. "Ghost in the Shell" requires attention to and adequate analyzation of the material to completely understand and appreciate it. This movie is philosophically dense, constantly questioning the ideas of identity and what actually makes us human. In this future take on Japan and its state, humans and technology have merged, leaving the discussion open on the previously stated question, "What makes us human?" Most people possess cybernetic shells (to a varying degree) as substitutes for body parts, and some retain only their "brain", possibly the only thing left of the humanity they once harbored (if at all). These themes are consistent throughout and the way they are is handled all throughout is masterful.
[ART: 10/10]
The art of this movie is infallible at times, completely shocking the viewer with its intricacy and execution. Everything from model movement to character design is handled extraordinarily well. An amazing amount of time went into the visuals of this movie and it really shows. This is one of the most beautiful animated films of its decade.
[SOUND: 10/10]
The soundtrack to this movie is simply iconic. Its experimental and distinctive sound has brought it to such a level, portraying the eerie world that is fused with technology and the conflict the protagonist feels towards such an environment. The voice actors are great and become these characters, expressing these character's feelings through their words that wouldn't connect with us visually.
[CHARACTER: 10/10]
Sense of identity is prevalent in this movie. The main character, Motoko, constantly questions her state of existence. She is not a unique being, as evidenced by the multiple cyborg models that are of the same replica as Motoko shown dwelling throughout the environment that has been built here. Her body is mostly cybernetic, and she is only left with what she believes is her brain to differentiate her from artificial intelligence, but even this is put into jeopardy when she contemplates if it's her actual brain or just a program telling her it is. None of the questions asked are answered in this film and it only helps to enhance the experience. This may not be overly relatable at this point in our technological advancement, but it will only become more and more relevant as time passes, and that's what is so revolutionary about "Ghost in the Shell".
[ENJOYMENT/OVERALL: 10/10]
While "Ghost in the Shell" is not an easy movie to understand for some, if you take the time to analyze it closely and re-watch it again, you may be able to discover and admire the beauty and philosophic properties that lie within it. Its constant questioning of what makes us human and what makes us who we are is seen in literature countless times throughout human existence, the only difference is that this form has a different setting and conveyance that sets it apart from the rest. This movie is a masterpiece that transcends other contemporaries of its time, whether it be the groundbreaking visuals, iconic soundtrack, or beautiful story direction that questions our very existence. Possibly one of the best animated works to ever be released.
