GHOST IN THE SHELL

Version: Manga Entertainment 2004 Special Edition DVD; English dub

This is one of my favorite anime movies. I guess it's a girl power thing. :P Despite her lack of clothing throughout, Major Kusanagi is a very strong female lead. All of the characters in this film are strong (except for the ones that aren't supposed to be, of course). Batou is my second favorite. He's not as rough in this one as the sequel.

The visuals in this film are great for the age it was made. This film was made in 1995, so keep that in mind when you think the digital graphics look dated. This one is about 90 percent animation, as opposed to the sequel (click here for my thoughts on that one) which is easily 50-50. I heard they were making a revamped edition of this one, so perhaps when you read this the version you see will look spiffier. I'm not that into revamps, so I just keep watching this version. The crime solving is good, and while things do get a little confusing, you get the feel of a serious investigatory body.

You action nuts will be pleased, as there is plenty of pain to be passed around. Guns, tanks, and hand to hand are just some of the offerings. One thing to note: while Innocence was rated teen, this is not. Batou has a mouth on him, and the Major is frequently seen sans-clothing. You should get that impression from the cover, though. ;)

If you've seen The Matrix, chances are things will be familiar to you. The makers of The Matrix were inspired by this film. I believe there are even a few shot-for-shot scenes in the two. This is one of the classic anime films, and as such many other anime series and movies draw inspiration from it.

I highly recommend Ghost in the Shell. If you want to watch the tv series, note that it is not in the same continuity as the ending of this film. The series is what happened if the other route was taken. Enjoy!