New Releases #6: Ghost in the Shell

My name is Logan Tyler Smith, and in this series of LoganLand Prime I will analyze movies that are newer or more contemporary in the public consciousness. Welcome to the New Releases series.

In “Ghost in the Shell,” a young woman named Mira Killian is in an advanced future. After her body is damaged beyond repair, she has her brain placed into a robotic body, rendering her amnesic. She now works for the government as an elite assassin, so when a terrorist with similar abilities starts attacking government agents, she goes on a mission to defeat him. However, during this mission she uncovers the truth about her human past.


Ghost in the Shell sounds like (and is) one of the polarizing movies in this decade. It’s worth noting that this is a remake of an anime movie of the same name. With that in mind you don’t need to see the original to love and hate Ghost in the Shell on multiple levels. The plot seems somehow believable and ludicrous all at once. It was definitely harder to follow than other movies I’ve seen.


The characters appear to be little more than sketches on paper. Though there are some clear-cut motivations (and even the antagonists are made sympathetic) the characters in general seem too artificial to be believed. The acting is decent when it comes to getting the plot across, but the bad writing makes that a really low bar. Scarlett Johansson is a decent actress in this movie, but even she can’t save her character's lack of depth.


All that said, the film still manages to be visceral and thrilling. The special effects are top notch, and despite the heavy tone, the movie itself is not without some heart.


Overall, you will know upon watching it that you had an interesting and very divisive experience. It may be appealing for those who are a fan of well-done special effects and a visually well-made product. However, if you want a movie that has a great story and characters, Ghost in the Shell may rate as only “okay”.

That's my take. I'm Logan Tyler Smith and this has been the New Releases series.

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