Ghost in the Shell

I won't go into the main plot. But I just say that if one has not any background related to the original manga japanese animated movie perhaps one can really enjoy this film afresh and see how awsome it is. Obviously because of the powerful original history, which is tranformed into a hollywood production quite well. As a proof, just compare this film, its plot, with any other Hollywood 100-200 million production, and you will see the risk they have taken to show this sci-fi history in a non-animated fashion, with incredible special effects and not losing the original track at all, although simplified.

I wasn't expecting much from this film as many critics claimed it was rubbish. I however really enjoyed it. Visually beautiful and we'll shot. Great movie. I am a big anime fan and felt this film was true to that format. Don't listen to all the haters& watch it fur yourself. You will be glad that you did......

First of all I have to say that I'm not a manga or anime fan even though I've watched the GITS anime twice and think is amazingly deep in terms of its story-line and philosophical topics. I went to see this movie trying to forget the anime, letting myself be surprised by the characters and plot. And must say that I really enjoyed the movie, especially that "retro noir", post apocalyptic atmosphere a la Blade Runner. I never expected to find the same scenes that appear on the anime, that would be a complete waste of time and effort. What would be the point on replicating the same scenes? Instead of that, the movie adds a slightly different approach compared to the original story and sacrifices some philosophical matters perhaps to keep the fast-paced of the action. Another aspect worth to mention is the original score, so magnificent, flowing with the scenes, helping to create that dark, robotic and apocalyptic look.

Disclaimer: Old fart sci-fi / fantasy fan, and I don't know a thing about the original anime or anime in general. Two things i do know:

First, this is more than just first-rate eye candy and directing, it has heart and soul and that bittersweet feeling that anyone who has any of the first two will instantly understand and be drawn to.

Second, 6.5 stars (Jan 2017) is a crime against this film. Surely there is some exterior reason the haters are going after it. I predict 5 years from now, it's true quality will be more accurately reflected. I'd wager it might even make it to the top 250 list someday.

The film plays like a six, in that the story line is good but maybe not top-notch, but the ending is spectacular, and by spectacular I mean better than your average excellent film out there.

So this is a seven to me, and recommended to all my friends and family.