Ghost In The Shell/Ghost In The Shell 2 - Innocence

The inspiration for many, many things but most importantly, The Matrix.This version has the original version and not the 2.0 remaster. I personally don't like version 2.0 because of the poor CGI they added to the animation. The original cell drawn animation is far better than anything CGI can do. Some original scenes have very basic CGI which are more fitting to the time this was produced.Ghost in the Shell is easily a 4.5/5Ghost in the Shell: Innocence is a solid follow up but I can imagine some fans not liking it so much because of it's slower pace. It still has a good story and is well worth the double bill watch!Ghost in the Shell: Innocence is a 4/5

Having been watching anime for a while I still haven't got round to some of the classics so I brought the double pack on DVD for GitS and it's sequel Innocence. I only watched the Japanese subbed versions so I can't comment on the English voice acting. I haven't seen the newer Scarlet Johansson version yet, I wanted to watch the original first. There is also two anime series Stand Alone Complex and Arise, both of which are an alternate storyline, so will watch them next. Without giving much away the first film has a rather strange ending, so my advice is to watch Innocence straight (or soon) after. Though Innocence isn't as good as the first, it is still brilliant. I cannot comment on the extra bonus features as I haven't watched them, but then although interesting I'm not much fussed over it.Ghost in the Shell (original 1995 version, not GitS 2.0 remake) is amazing in terms of it's animation, directing and character designs. It's quality still stands up to modern anime, if not better than some (though I'm not really an animation snob, unless it's really bad!). The plot bas you follow Major, who is trying to find and stop a terrorist known as The Puppet Master. Major, like all the Cyborgs especially have this eerie look to them, which I actually liked.Innocence (its sequel) is like the first, greatly animated and directed. Although, Innocence has changed its animation style along with CGI mixed in too. Still, it looks visually stunning though it'll take some getting used to. Unlike the first, you follow Major's partner Batou on his investigation of gruesome murders, there is a different tone (more like Blade Runner). Many have problems with the subtitles for this one, I can't say if it's the English version but I had no problems with the subtitles.Both do however have a standard plot, however they are very much philosophical films. Which some may not enjoy. I've only watched them both once but I believe they need to be watched a second time to fully understand everything. If you're a science fiction fan, you have no doubt come across the subjects here countless of times, so it may not be something new but GitS has inspired many of films and series you may know and love (not just anime, but live action too). The characters too are rather simple, not particularly boring but they aren't exactly full of personality, but then perhaps I missed something on my first viewing. Both films are a bit bizarre, but still a entertaining watch.

Ghost In The Shell 2 Innocence dances across its philosophical themes like sentient marionettes. It comes as no surprise that I am a huge fan of Oshii's original ambitious science-fiction feature. It transcended philosophies and ideologies through stunning animation and a futuristic noir police investigation, resulting in setting a benchmark for a variety of genres. Oshii returns for the sequel, and attempts to succeed his own creation. Whilst not as fresh and inventive as its predecessor, this follow-on has enough style and substance to quantify its existence. Following on from the events of the first film, agent Batou teams up with a new recruit to investigate a series of hacked dolls that are causing deaths.The idea of "ghosts" inhabiting machines was conceptualised in the original film (and the manga it was based on), and retains its presence during this investigation. The philosophy behind souls and artificial intelligence clearly inspires Oshii as he repeatedly maintains his perspective on the rapid evolution of technological advancements. Questioning the existence of humanity as they acquire more cybernetic enhancements, slowly turning them into pure machines. It has to be said, that Oshii's screenplay is overly heavy on philosophical dialogue, to the point that it occasionally becomes difficult to follow and detracts from the primary plot. However, the sheer ambition with its poetry-like dialogue has to be applauded. Oshii integrates these beliefs through natural conversation between Batou and his new partner Togusa. Discussing the reasoning behind the human likeness of dolls and marionettes and frequently referencing a metaphor regarding an elephant.The initial weight of the script will deter many, as they sprint to find the nearest notepad and pen. But if you really listen to Oshii's words, opening your ears, you'll appreciate his masterful talent. Utterly resonating. The characterisation of Batou remains prominent despite his cold exterior, however Togusa could've had more time to establish his conflicting views with Batou. Narratively speaking, it's weirdly yet well paced. The first act felt reminiscent to the original's noir aesthetic, leading to a surreal second act that slowly melts your mind and then concluding with its third act that rapidly wraps up the investigation with minimal explanation, opting for a more action orientation. It's not so much a criticism, more just a comment.The animation remains stunning and its visual style has substantially evolved since 1995. Embedding 2D hand-drawn characters against 3D CGI environments adds a layer of depth. Colossal technological skyscrapers illuminate the background whilst Batou slowly walks to his next clue. Oshii relies on the CGI slightly too much and often diminishes the story with the flashy gimmicks effects. However, it must be said that making a sequel to a near masterpiece in science-fiction and anime, is a difficult task. In my opinion, Oshii successfully did just that. It may not be as remarkable, but it certainly pushes forward with its ideas on existentialism and evolution.

films are as good as ever, but the 2 disc version (with both films) has an issues. Ghost in the Shell has ZERO bonus features on the disc, despite the listing and even the packaging saying it does.Clearly not amazons fault, but dont expect any making of stuff

Being a blind Ghost in the Shell fan willing to spend money on something I already own, I bought this. It contains both the first and second Ghost in the Shell films, as well as the Ghost in the Shell 2.0 remakey thing, on Blu-ray. I didn't care at all for 2.0, finding the CGI to add nothing to it, so just turn to the original instead.My version came with a cardboard slip and the two films in their respective Blu-Ray cases, which appears to be different to what others have received.Buying these two bundled together is cheaper than buying them separate, so it's a great buy. There seems to be some confusion, so just for the record: the original Ghost in the Shell film is included as well as the 2.0 edition.