Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Movie : 4.5 / 5 Video Quality : 4.5 / 5 Audio Quality : 5 / 5 Extras : 2.5 / 5 Overall : 4.1 / 5 ( rounded down in total star ranking )
This was the second genuine anime film I ever watched , and even after repeated viewings I've been confused and confounded by it . It may be short and it may boast some cool action scenes , but for the most part it is a tight , complex , and highly cerebral thriller . The combination of philosophy , psychology , technology , and politics is often overwhelming in this film .
Only recently have I been able to understand the movie's plot and issues , and I must say that it is a very sublime picture with some very deep issues concerning the human soul , technology , and society . For that matter , each viewing does reveal deeper meaning . On this basis , the movie not only makes for quintessential anime , but it is also an essential ( and influential ) piece of cyberpunk sci-fi .
The movie's plot and characters may seem muddled , but they have nuances and complexities of their own . I do find that other features in the Ghost in the Shell series ( namely , Innocence , Stand Alone Complex , and Solid State Society ) offer easier storylines and more understandable characters , but they are not quite as original or distinctive as what's in this film . The movie is slowly-paced , but has lots of interesting visuals and some brilliant action scenes . Production design features some very interesting and original sets , props , costumes , vehicles , and weapons . Music is interesting .
For better or for worse , this disc showcases the 2.0 version , which offers enhanced CGI effects to replace certain scenes , as well as an enhanced soundtrack and a new music score . These changes do offer a different color palette than the theatrical cut , and the image overall looks cleaner , sharper , and more detailed . Above all , it is visually and conceptually more compatible with other features in the Ghost in the Shell series .
This disc offers decent quality . The video looks very clean , with excellent color and contrast . It is sharp with plenty of details ; textures are strong and pencil lines are thin . I saw no signs of visual noise , pixilation , or aliasing . The only issue worth noting is that some scenes may have bright auras , but this is notably less intrusive on Blu-Ray than it is on DVD . A few scenes showed some slight banding as well . Sound quality is excellent ( DTS-HD MA 6.1 , lossless ) , and you have a choice between English dubbing and the original Japanese , with optional subtitles . Extras include a making-of feature , character profiles , creator biographies , and a trailer .
One of the special features is the original theatrical cut of the movie . Video quality on the original film in 1080i is notably weaker , for it shows greater pixilation , aliasing , and film artifacts . Colors are also more washed-out , but some colors are notably different than the 2.0 version ( more blues and greens in certain scenes ) . Regardless , it is still a sharp and clean image . Sound quality is good , and it has the same language and subtitle options as the 2.0 feature .
001 4 I'm going to break this review down into two parts .
The movie itself :
This is Ghost In The Shell in HD . It's beautiful , but for a smoother translation into the look of Innocence the greenish colors of the original film have been touched up and made to be more of an amber color like that seen in second film . This isn't really a change that I mind , and it's pulled off fairly well . I assume that several scenes were cleaned up digitally because the line art looks amazingly clean .
Sadly , someone felt it would be appropriate to replace some of the most iconic and stunning animation from the original with CG . A few scenes are done well like those where the CG is only helicopters or buildings , but whenever it replaces characters with crappy looking CG models it becomes stunningly bad . If you watch the making of the original movie you can see that their limited use of computer assisted animation was carefully planned and fit in with the other artwork and improved the film . The CG in 2.0 sticks out like a sore thumb in most cases . The only CG part that I liked was the pan over the cityscape at the end of the film .
If you have a bluray player and haven't seen GitS yet 2.0 isn't a bad way to see it , but fans of the original will probably be disappointed with the lack of any significant changes and the quality of what was changed .
The bluray by Manga :
Somehow Manga Entertainment never ceases to screw something pretty major up on their releases . The box lists a commentary with Oshii , an interview with Oshii and a making of GitS 2.0 . None of these features are present on the bluray . You get throw away character profiles , glossary , and the old english trailer . The original making of GitS is here in VHS quality along with the unlisted bonus feature of the original cut of the movie . When I heard that I was pretty excited because in all honesty it's the only version I truly care about , but it looks to be taken from non-HD masters and only includes 2.0 audio tracks . If memory serves me correctly I believe that my GitS DVD looks better upscaled than this version does .
It would have been nice to do a re-dub of the film with the SAC cast , but I guess most of them were in the original anyway and it's a nice dub in it's own right .
This whole release just makes me want the original film untouched in HD . I can't give this less than three stars if only because seeing this movie this way is better than not seeing it at all because it's a one of my favorite films ever , but be aware of the problems with this release before deciding to buy it .
002 4 Ahh . . . Ghost in the Shell . The 1995 movie based on the manga that was called by some the second coming of Akira . I can't help but agree with that . So here we are almost 15 years later and we now have a sequel , a spin-off TV show , with a TV movie and it's influence is seen in movies such as The Matrix . Now we have GitS 2.0 , which is not a sequel ( though I can see why people could be misled into thinking that . ) but a redone version of the first movie . The colors has been changed and some CG has been brought in to replace the old animation . Its supposed to look more like the sequel , Innocence , but honestly it looks weird since the original movie was made 9 years before the sequel . But I'm not going to review the movie itself , I'm just going to tell you why you should buy this on Blu-Ray .
The first thing all you purists need to know , the original Ghost in the Shell is included on the disc in HD . It doesn't look that great but it looks better than the DVD for sure . Also , the transfer is not the DVD master from the 2005 re-issue simply upconverted ( contrary to popular belief ) , it is the Blu-ray master from Japan . They didn't really clean up the film but this is pretty much the best it's ever going to look unless Bandai , Manga or Production IG want to put up the money for a full re-master .
Which brings us into the new 2.0 version . This puppy has demo worthy video . The animation has been nicely cleaned-up , the new CG pops , and the re-mixed soundtrack ( which I'll get back to in a minute ) can bring the house down . This is one of the best animated Blu-rays out there , up there with Cars , Wall-E , and Akira . While consistency is off thanks to the new CG , new colors and old animation , but this is not the fault of the transfer .
The soundtrack for the original Japanese version has actually been thrown out the window completely . Not only are there new sound effects , but the original cast has re-recorded all their lines , with one exception : the Puppet Master . The Puppet Master was originally voiced by a man , and has now been replaced by a woman . Also the song that plays in the background during the market chase with Batou has been removed . It is such a small thing that people probably won't notice ( but I brought it up for a reason ) .
Now , I'm going to be honest , I'm a fan of the English dub of GitS in all of its forms . When this was announced I thought for sure they would re-dub the movie with the new GitS : Stand Alone Complex cast . This is not the case . They used the original dub from 1995 for this version ( So Mimi Woods is playing Motoko , not Mary Elizabeth McGlynn from the SAC dub . ) with the new sound effects thrown in . Which brings us to a inconsistency because in the 2.0 version the Puppet Master is supposed to be played a female , but instead , is still played by a man , since this is literally the same dub . This isn't the only inconsistency , the song from the marketplace is now back in the movie . There some other small gripes but only the hardcore fan would notice .
Now onto the extras . They consider the old version of the movie as a extra , and it is a pretty cool extra , having both versions in HD . Then we come into a couple of weird quirks . On the box , it says there is a commentary with the director , as well as a making of feature for 2.0 . What we get is a making of feature . . . . for the original movie and a theatrical trailer . . . for the original . Along with come bios and glossary . The features on the box are no where to be found , which is quite a big gaff . Maybe future re-prints will correct this but as of now , the features on the box are not there . To me , it isn't a big deal , but it kind of sucks that we don't get what the box promises .
All in all this is a must buy for every GitS fan . Not only do you get the new version of this movie , you get the original in HD . That way , you get the best of both worlds . Everyone else , give this one a rental , because this is really for the fans .
003 4 You can not talk about cyberpunk without bringing up this one ! This is the movie that even anime haters have seen and liked . Mamoru Oshii , director of Sky Crawlers and Patlabor pioneered anime sci-fi in the 90s with this film adaptation of Masamune Shirow's manga series .
Set in a future where androids and cyborgs are commonplace , a special Japanese enforcer unit called Section 9 gets called into handle cybercrimes and sticky foreign affairs . Matoko is a major on this team , and she and her partner Batou get called into handling a case on the illusive hacker known as the Puppet Master . After trailing some unsuspecting garbage collectors , they think they have their man , but he turns out to be another puppet himself . Then , a robot body escapes from a government cybernetics lab , and is brought into Section 9 headquarters . Two agents from the rival Section 6 show up to claim it saying that was now hosting the cybernetic essence referred to as a ghost of the Puppet Master . It reveals itself to be a living entity that was created by Section 6 to control people's ghosts , and its come to Section 9 seeking asylum . Commandos make off with the body , so Matoko and Batou take off after their getaway car . Matoko corners them in an abandonned church , although the car is protected by a robot spider tank ( not a Tachikoma , BTW ) . She almost gets crushed by the tank , but Batou manages to stop it with a bigass gun . Matoko then dives into the Puppet Master , and he reveals to her that arranged all this in attempt to merge his programming with her ghost in order to create an entirely new lifeform . Matoko doesn't get a chance to disagree as both she and the Puppet Master's body's are totalled by Section 6 agents . Hours later , Batou was able to salvage what there was of Matoko's ghost into the robot body of a young girl , although she claims she is now longer Matoko or the Puppet Master , but their composite prodigy . She then leaves planning to spread herself throughout the net .
This movie was one of the few to actually be released in U.S . theatres in the 90s . The blend of computer graphics with Oshii's dynamic animation direction is superb . It's influence is apparent in several other American productions like Batman Beyond , The Matrix and Equilibrium . The film itself spawned off a sequal , Ghost In The Shell : Innocence , plus the Stand Alone Complex anime TV series which has a movie followup and two compilation movies . The original was recently redone in a new version , Ghost In The Shell 2.0 , which is the same film , but now with new 3D graphics which add a definate bonus to it , and not in some lame Star Wars : Special Edition way . The dub is pretty good , although most U.S . otaku probably ally themselves with the English cast from the TV series instead . All in all , the 2.0 version is a paramount acquisition for your personal anime ark !
004 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 ( DVD )
After watching the new remastered 2.0 version and have seen the original Ghost in the shell movie the only complaint is some of the CGI scenes being replaced by some of the anime.The video compared to the 2 disc remastered release has been very notiably cleaned up.The director also brought back the cast from the original movie to do the voice recordings and compared to the original sounds alot better also.The original actors are older now so the voice over being redone gave this remastering a more mature sound to the movie and if your a fan appreciate that the director used the same actors again to do the voice overs again.The sound has also been redone.If you have a nice Hi-Def TV and surround sound this movie sounds and looks excellent ! ! The director also remastered the original musical score with a higher sounding tone that sounds alot better than the original score.I had the original Manga release from sometime ago and picked up the 2 disc original rerelease of the movie when it came out on dvd.I still like the original presentation without the CGI but , being treated to a fully remastered version of the film was a visual and audio treat.What I did not like about the release of the Ghost in the shell 2.0 is this is a bare release with no special features at all and should have been released onto dvd much better by the publisher.If you have never seen this movie at all I recommend watch the original version of the film without the CGI then watch this version to fully appreciate the movie.What I hope what will happen and since Dreamworks got the ok to do a live action 3D version of Ghost in the shell is maybe the original version of the anime without the CGI can be remastered and a Box set release along with the live action release of the film can be done with both movies and special features included in the set would give this movie a well deserved release.Hopefully the end release of this movie will be the same way Blade Runner was done countless times on DVD.For now if you don't own either version of the movie get both of them watch the original first then the 2.0 remaster.This is a very well done movie ahead of its time ! ! !
005 4 After watching the new remastered 2.0 version and have seen the original Ghost in the shell movie the only complaint is some of the CGI scenes being replaced by some of the anime.The video compared to the 2 disc remastered release has been very notiably cleaned up.The director also brought back the cast from the original movie to do the voice recordings and compared to the original sounds alot better also.The original actors are older now so the voice over being redone gave this remastering a more mature sound to the movie and if your a fan appreciate that the director used the same actors again to do the voice overs again.The sound has also been redone.If you have a nice Hi-Def TV and surround sound this movie sounds and looks excellent ! ! The director also remastered the original musical score with a higher sounding tone that sounds alot better than the original score.I had the original Manga release from sometime ago and picked up the 2 disc original rerelease of the movie when it came out on dvd.I still like the original presentation without the CGI but , being treated to a fully remastered version of the film was a visual and audio treat.What I did not like about the release of the Ghost in the shell 2.0 is this is a bare release with no special features at all and should have been released onto dvd much better by the publisher.If you have never seen this movie at all I recommend watch the original version of the film without the CGI then watch this version to fully appreciate the movie.What I hope what will happen and since Dreamworks got the ok to do a live action 3D version of Ghost in the shell is maybe the original version of the anime without the CGI can be remastered and a Box set release along with the live action release of the film can be done with both movies and special features included in the set would give this movie a well deserved release.Hopefully the end release of this movie will be the same way Blade Runner was done countless times on DVD.For now if you don't own either version of the movie get both of them watch the original first then the 2.0 remaster.This is a very well done movie ahead of its time ! ! !
006 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
The Blu-ray is excellent , the movie an anime classic , and overall an all time favorite . The 2.0 brought a lot of minor changes and like the revised Special Edition releases of Star Wars many of the changes were completely unnecessary .
The CGI Makoto looks odd and out of place . She looks stiff and rubbery and a generally poor attempt on Production I.G . ' s part not really up to their usual standard as they have shown themselves to be capable of . She clashes horribly with much of the hand drawn animation of the rest of the film .
Makoto aside some of the other changes aren't to bad from the computer displays to some of the vehicles they are small frivulous and though they don't add much to the film at least they don't detract from the immersion as the scenes with CGI Makoto do . Unneccisary , but not bad changes to say the least .
Thankfully the Blu-ray's special features included the full theatrical video in HD though with the 2.0 ' s ( improved ) audio track . . . Granted the theatrical version is a rip of the Laserdisk release and isn't a real film transfer but it is a great addition for the hardcore that prefer the original film .
Really the special feature alone made this Blu-ray worth the purchase weather I you the changes or not ( LD upscale issue aside ) .
007 4 The Blu-ray is excellent , the movie an anime classic , and overall an all time favorite . The 2.0 brought a lot of minor changes and like the revised Special Edition releases of Star Wars many of the changes were completely unnecessary .
The CGI Makoto looks odd and out of place . She looks stiff and rubbery and a generally poor attempt on Production I.G . ' s part not really up to their usual standard as they have shown themselves to be capable of . She clashes horribly with much of the hand drawn animation of the rest of the film .
Makoto aside some of the other changes aren't to bad from the computer displays to some of the vehicles they are small frivulous and though they don't add much to the film at least they don't detract from the immersion as the scenes with CGI Makoto do . Unneccisary , but not bad changes to say the least .
Thankfully the Blu-ray's special features included the full theatrical video in HD though with the 2.0 ' s ( improved ) audio track . . . Granted the theatrical version is a rip of the Laserdisk release and isn't a real film transfer but it is a great addition for the hardcore that prefer the original film .
Really the special feature alone made this Blu-ray worth the purchase weather I you the changes or not ( LD upscale issue aside ) .
008 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Movie : 4.5 / 5 Video Quality : 4.5 / 5 Audio Quality : 5 / 5 Extras : 2.5 / 5 Overall : 4.1 / 5 ( rounded down in total star ranking )
This was the second genuine anime film I ever watched , and even after repeated viewings I've been confused and confounded by it . It may be short and it may boast some cool action scenes , but for the most part it is a tight , complex , and highly cerebral thriller . The combination of philosophy , psychology , technology , and politics is often overwhelming in this film .
Only recently have I been able to understand the movie's plot and issues , and I must say that it is a very sublime picture with some very deep issues concerning the human soul , technology , and society . For that matter , each viewing does reveal deeper meaning . On this basis , the movie not only makes for quintessential anime , but it is also an essential ( and influential ) piece of cyberpunk sci-fi .
The movie's plot and characters may seem muddled , but they have nuances and complexities of their own . I do find that other features in the Ghost in the Shell series ( namely , Innocence , Stand Alone Complex , and Solid State Society ) offer easier storylines and more understandable characters , but they are not quite as original or distinctive as what's in this film . The movie is slowly-paced , but has lots of interesting visuals and some brilliant action scenes . Production design features some very interesting and original sets , props , costumes , vehicles , and weapons . Music is interesting .
For better or for worse , this disc showcases the 2.0 version , which offers enhanced CGI effects to replace certain scenes , as well as an enhanced soundtrack and a new music score . These changes do offer a different color palette than the theatrical cut , and the image overall looks cleaner , sharper , and more detailed . Above all , it is visually and conceptually more compatible with other features in the Ghost in the Shell series .
This disc offers decent quality . The video looks very clean , with excellent color and contrast . It is sharp with plenty of details ; textures are strong and pencil lines are thin . I saw no signs of visual noise , pixilation , or aliasing . The only issue worth noting is that some scenes may have bright auras , but this is notably less intrusive on Blu-Ray than it is on DVD . A few scenes showed some slight banding as well . Sound quality is excellent ( DTS-HD MA 6.1 , lossless ) , and you have a choice between English dubbing and the original Japanese , with optional subtitles . Extras include a making-of feature , character profiles , creator biographies , and a trailer .
One of the special features is the original theatrical cut of the movie . Video quality on the original film in 1080i is notably weaker , for it shows greater pixilation , aliasing , and film artifacts . Colors are also more washed-out , but some colors are notably different than the 2.0 version ( more blues and greens in certain scenes ) . Regardless , it is still a sharp and clean image . Sound quality is good , and it has the same language and subtitle options as the 2.0 feature .
009 4 Movie : 4.5 / 5 Video Quality : 4.5 / 5 Audio Quality : 5 / 5 Extras : 2.5 / 5 Overall : 4.1 / 5 ( rounded down in total star ranking )
This was the second genuine anime film I ever watched , and even after repeated viewings I've been confused and confounded by it . It may be short and it may boast some cool action scenes , but for the most part it is a tight , complex , and highly cerebral thriller . The combination of philosophy , psychology , technology , and politics is often overwhelming in this film .
Only recently have I been able to understand the movie's plot and issues , and I must say that it is a very sublime picture with some very deep issues concerning the human soul , technology , and society . For that matter , each viewing does reveal deeper meaning . On this basis , the movie not only makes for quintessential anime , but it is also an essential ( and influential ) piece of cyberpunk sci-fi .
The movie's plot and characters may seem muddled , but they have nuances and complexities of their own . I do find that other features in the Ghost in the Shell series ( namely , Innocence , Stand Alone Complex , and Solid State Society ) offer easier storylines and more understandable characters , but they are not quite as original or distinctive as what's in this film . The movie is slowly-paced , but has lots of interesting visuals and some brilliant action scenes . Production design features some very interesting and original sets , props , costumes , vehicles , and weapons . Music is interesting .
For better or for worse , this disc showcases the 2.0 version , which offers enhanced CGI effects to replace certain scenes , as well as an enhanced soundtrack and a new music score . These changes do offer a different color palette than the theatrical cut , and the image overall looks cleaner , sharper , and more detailed . Above all , it is visually and conceptually more compatible with other features in the Ghost in the Shell series .
This disc offers decent quality . The video looks very clean , with excellent color and contrast . It is sharp with plenty of details ; textures are strong and pencil lines are thin . I saw no signs of visual noise , pixilation , or aliasing . The only issue worth noting is that some scenes may have bright auras , but this is notably less intrusive on Blu-Ray than it is on DVD . A few scenes showed some slight banding as well . Sound quality is excellent ( DTS-HD MA 6.1 , lossless ) , and you have a choice between English dubbing and the original Japanese , with optional subtitles . Extras include a making-of feature , character profiles , creator biographies , and a trailer .
One of the special features is the original theatrical cut of the movie . Video quality on the original film in 1080i is notably weaker , for it shows greater pixilation , aliasing , and film artifacts . Colors are also more washed-out , but some colors are notably different than the 2.0 version ( more blues and greens in certain scenes ) . Regardless , it is still a sharp and clean image . Sound quality is good , and it has the same language and subtitle options as the 2.0 feature .
010 4 I am reviewing the DVD release , so I won't comment on Blu-Ray picture quality . As noted by others , the changes to the original film are not earth-shattering , and they aren't all improvements .
New computer generated 3D animation is substituted for some of the old cell animation . But the transitions are jarring . The change is hard to justify . The old animation was good , and the style was more or less consistent .
I personally think the English dubbing should have been re-done . Just something about the Major's voice has always been a little too deadpan . But basically the same old voice tracks are used .
The color of the whole film is shifted toward sepia . Everything is more washed-out and more brown than before . It doesn't look good to me .
I bought the 12 laserdisc of GITS when it came out . The first DVD release of GITS was quite good . Maybe you will prefer 2.0 , but for me it is change for change's sake . The film is worth multiple viewings , but I'll stick with 1.0 , thank you .
011 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Having been a ghost in the shell fan since the original release back in 1995 since this new blu-ray retool edition was an interesting experience as i got to see what it would like if it was made today . And while I don't mind the new updated cg effects . I still prefer the original animation . Just something about how it looks keeps the soul of the animation . I feel the Cg areas sorta loses something from the process and it gets lost . On the plus side the animation here looks beautiful and truly amazing especially in HD and because of that I have to recommend this blu-ray if only for the updated remastering of the animation parts . The sound track also sounds amazing and if you have never seen Ghost in the shell , but have seen the Matrix and love it or dark city or anything cyber punk sci fi thriller , then Ghost in the Shell is a must see movie .
012 4 Having been a ghost in the shell fan since the original release back in 1995 since this new blu-ray retool edition was an interesting experience as i got to see what it would like if it was made today . And while I don't mind the new updated cg effects . I still prefer the original animation . Just something about how it looks keeps the soul of the animation . I feel the Cg areas sorta loses something from the process and it gets lost . On the plus side the animation here looks beautiful and truly amazing especially in HD and because of that I have to recommend this blu-ray if only for the updated remastering of the animation parts . The sound track also sounds amazing and if you have never seen Ghost in the shell , but have seen the Matrix and love it or dark city or anything cyber punk sci fi thriller , then Ghost in the Shell is a must see movie .
013 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Since this movie is so popular and believed to be a kind of legend and there's a lot of review on it , I'm not going to comment on movie itself . I'd say it's not much worth buying blu-ray version if you have DVD one ( hopefully with upconverter ) . AQ seems better but I don't see any big difference in PQ between two formats .
014 4 Since this movie is so popular and believed to be a kind of legend and there's a lot of review on it , I'm not going to comment on movie itself . I'd say it's not much worth buying blu-ray version if you have DVD one ( hopefully with upconverter ) . AQ seems better but I don't see any big difference in PQ between two formats .
015 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
It has both the new remastered and the original version of the film on one disk . What else do you need to know . The new 3 - D stuff is cool but it stands out too much . On the other hand the new sound and remastered 2D animation is great . But if your old school and prefer the original version ( like myself ) , you will be happy to know that the original is on here as well , untouched . It's in the extras . With that said , this is an amazing disk . If your a fan or Oshi or ghost in the shell and want to watch it in HD ? Then this disk is for you .
016 4 It has both the new remastered and the original version of the film on one disk . What else do you need to know . The new 3 - D stuff is cool but it stands out too much . On the other hand the new sound and remastered 2D animation is great . But if your old school and prefer the original version ( like myself ) , you will be happy to know that the original is on here as well , untouched . It's in the extras . With that said , this is an amazing disk . If your a fan or Oshi or ghost in the shell and want to watch it in HD ? Then this disk is for you .
017 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
The original animated scenes were given an Orton treatment . For those who are not familiar with the Orton effect , here is a synopsis - a blurred ( out-of-focus ) version of the image is blended with the original image giving it a smeared-color look . It is a matter of taste if this is an improvement .
018 4 The original animated scenes were given an Orton treatment . For those who are not familiar with the Orton effect , here is a synopsis - a blurred ( out-of-focus ) version of the image is blended with the original image giving it a smeared-color look . It is a matter of taste if this is an improvement .
019 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
I'm happy that a new generation of viewers may get the chance to see this groundbreaking Sci-Fi / Art movie with fresh eyes . And ears . I remember putting the film's audio on a cassette tape years ago so I could listen to it at work and in my car . . it was one of the first anime I remember that had a brilliant ambient score that drenched the film in a really eerie stoic mood . The remastered Skywalker sound soundtrack and effects track are a total joy to me , the music's dynamic range is captured better than ever , and a plethora of miscellaneous background effects flesh out the action better than ever .
In nearly every scene , the colors look deeper and more genuine than the original print . . there is alot more simulated depth of field , not only from newly inserted visuals , but just from some clever color and contrast tweaks .
And NO , I have no qualms with the added CGI elements . Mamoru Oshii approved all of them , and Oshii's ever reiterated themes in the series has always been disassociation , dehumanization and the philosophy of making dolls in human form . . . so for this viewer , having a few scenes where Major Kusanagi is re-visualized in an even more stylized and antiseptic digital shape doesn't bother me at all . It's the whole point of her character .
The cropping that appears in some shots bothered me a little , but I get the feeling this wasn't done because it looked good , but because there wasn't another way to fix or alter color timing in the frame without it .
The collector in me would also have preferred if the original cut of the film was included on a separate disc , but at the same time , as it's just a HD rip of the original film that I've seen a bazillion times anyway , it's not a deal breaker .
I'm happy with this version .
020 4 I'm happy that a new generation of viewers may get the chance to see this groundbreaking Sci-Fi / Art movie with fresh eyes . And ears . I remember putting the film's audio on a cassette tape years ago so I could listen to it at work and in my car . . it was one of the first anime I remember that had a brilliant ambient score that drenched the film in a really eerie stoic mood . The remastered Skywalker sound soundtrack and effects track are a total joy to me , the music's dynamic range is captured better than ever , and a plethora of miscellaneous background effects flesh out the action better than ever .
In nearly every scene , the colors look deeper and more genuine than the original print . . there is alot more simulated depth of field , not only from newly inserted visuals , but just from some clever color and contrast tweaks .
And NO , I have no qualms with the added CGI elements . Mamoru Oshii approved all of them , and Oshii's ever reiterated themes in the series has always been disassociation , dehumanization and the philosophy of making dolls in human form . . . so for this viewer , having a few scenes where Major Kusanagi is re-visualized in an even more stylized and antiseptic digital shape doesn't bother me at all . It's the whole point of her character .
The cropping that appears in some shots bothered me a little , but I get the feeling this wasn't done because it looked good , but because there wasn't another way to fix or alter color timing in the frame without it .
The collector in me would also have preferred if the original cut of the film was included on a separate disc , but at the same time , as it's just a HD rip of the original film that I've seen a bazillion times anyway , it's not a deal breaker .
I'm happy with this version .
021 4 To someone who have seen the original GiTS and is thinking of buying this movie , just remember that the term 2.0 merely refers to some graphical changes done to some scenes . Otherwise its largely the same movie . The opening scene , where we are introduced to the Major is done completely in CG now and its NOT CHEAP CG as some might like to call . In fact its very well done , the hand drawn animation is left largely in tact , the opening and the creation of Major is completely redone and so is her scuba diving scene and some others . Don't buy this movie , thinking its a complete CG GiTS . It was done mostly to promote Oshii's new movie , The Sky Crawlers . However I personally loved and appreciated the changes . I can see why some people complain that disposition between CG and cel animation is a bit Jarring but to me it didn't mattered . But maybe that's just me . Buy it only if you are a die hard fan otherwise consider it a rental . Since there's anything new . The new CGI scenes look much better on the Blu-Ray as compared to the DVD counterpart . My only complain is the lack of extra features , you get a measly making of GITS 2.0 and some bios , nothing extraordinary . Considering how much people and filmmakers can say about this movie . Though a cool thing about the Blu-Ray is that for those of you who haven't seen the original , the Blu-Ray comes with both the original and the enhanced version . So you basically get two movies for the price of one . Which is not a bad deal , but it would have been a killer deal if Production I.G would have done some kind of enhances to the hand drawn animation . But what's there is pretty good stuff . But i can say with confidence that GITS 2.0 would be a worthy addition to your collection and don't forget to pick up GITS 2 : Innocence on Blu-Ray as well .
022 4 The CG reworking done to the 2.0 version of this movie is probably not needed . A good comparison is what George Lucas did with the original star wars trilogy . Things were added here and there , some made things look better other times it made the movie itself worse . It's also very similar to the limited edition star wars releases on dvd a few years back . Like those discs this also includes the original theatrical release . So if you are a purist and much rather watch the movie as originally intended you are able to do so . I watched 2.0 once through but I imagine any further rewatching will be done with the theatrical version included as a special feature .
Anyway , With how this disc was handled I can't help but highly recommend it to any fan of Ghost in the shell . Even if you already own the original dvd this is a worthy upgrade even if you only watch the theatrical version for the higher bitrate . The original GITS movie had some severe macroblocking issues that this disc does not have . I never saw the re-release done a few years back so I can't compare but it's a vast improvement over the original .
If it wasn't for the inclusion of the theatrical I would have given it 4 stars instead of 5 . Even with the all the issues I have with the 2.0 remake , I still feel this is the definitive release of the movie for now .
023 4 Let's get one thing clear : I love Ghost in the Shell . I have everything ever released on DVD . As far as Cyberpunk goes , this is it . Plain and simple .
Let's talk about what's wrong with GITS : 2.0
They took the 2008 Japanese Bluray and ran a blur filter over it . Want your DVD to look the same ? Turn the sharpness down to about 20% . Ta-da !
Added in new 3d animation that looks like something from a Playstation One or 2 at best . Low rez , crap quality that has artifacting and residue . We're talking Youtube video quality . I'm not impressed . Going from one type of animation type to another in mid movie is really painful .
On top of all that , deciding to change entire color pallets , substituting Amber for Green . Ya that's great . Thanks .
This is worse than what Lucas did to Star Wars . Far worse .
It's crap .
I am very disappointed .
024 4 I was hesitant to buy this blu-ray because of all the negative feedback about the new CG scenes . Luckily , I bought it anyway and was blown away . Sure , the famous opening sequence has a CGI Major now , and yes , it's as ridiculous as it sounds , but the rest of the film is magnificent . The transfer is superb , and the other CGI inserted into the film adds a layer of depth . It helps the city feel more alive . The sound is exceptional coming out of my 5.1 system ( it had those rear speakers working ! ) , and Kenji Kawai's soundtrack still sounds oh so good after all these years - - the warm blanket over a cold movie . Speaking of warmth , they've re-colored some scenes to match the sepia tones of the second film , and I think it was a great choice . The film feels more modern now . They also got rid of the green 1s and 0s in the opening sequence's text credits , which after The Matrix co-opted it , is a good thing .
If you're a fan of the movie and have any doubts about this blu-ray , don't . The original film is on the disc , but I have to say , 2.0 pleasantly surprised me and it will probably be the version I watch again from now on .
025 4 Anime and GITS fans rejoice with this must have remastered blu-ray version of the original movie . Certainly the CGI additions though good at times are a bit inconsistent in what they add overall but the remastered original animation for blu-ray is fantastic as is the audio . The spoken audio appears to be original ( re-mastered I'm sure ) so don't expect the flow of any scenes to change . This isn't like
Evangelion : 1.01
remakes just an very strong update to the original classic Ghost in the Shell . Special features include the original version of the movie but it does seem to me a bit rough in part going straight to blu-ray . With this blu-ray edition Ghost in the Shell as perhaps regained its place ( if it ever lost it ) of being what all other anime is judged against . Watch it .
026 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
This film will blow your mind . I own it on VHS , and the remastered version was SOOOO good ! This is what anime really is . The animation is amazing and the CGI is great , especially when you consider this film came out the year before Toy Story . Before you watch the series , watch this . If you want a good mystery / detective flick , watch this ! IF you want just a good anime film , watch this ! THIS IS NOT FOR KIDS ! This film is the animated version of a rated R film .
028 4 A hacker is taking over the minds of computer-enhanced humans in this remastered version of the ' 95 anime classic , which improved special effects .
In the tradition of Blade Runner , the film explores the boundaries of human and machine intelligence . In this story , those lines are often blurred because of the high state of technology that is part of everyday life .
The story follows a cyborg government agent on her hunt for the hijacker , known only as Puppet Master .
029 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
When I saw that there was an updated version of the classic anime movie Ghost In The Shell , I knew that I had to have it . I purchased the original version several years ago , and have been a fan of the series since it arrived here in the U.S .
When the new Blu-ray arrived , I instantly put it into the player , and found that not a lot has been changed from the original , just certain scenes that lend themselves to the new technology . The opening sequence is changed a bit , with much more detail of the Major . Other scenes of note are helicopter scenes that benefit greatly from the addition of the high def graphics .
The DVD has lots of extras on it , including the original version of the movie . This looks better when played through my Blu-ray player than the original played through my standard DVD player . All in all , even if you don't care for the updated version , you can still watch the original through this DVD , and you will get the extra features on the disc .
This is the one movie that I can greatly recommend purchasing , even if you have the original DVD .
030 4 When I saw that there was an updated version of the classic anime movie Ghost In The Shell , I knew that I had to have it . I purchased the original version several years ago , and have been a fan of the series since it arrived here in the U.S .
When the new Blu-ray arrived , I instantly put it into the player , and found that not a lot has been changed from the original , just certain scenes that lend themselves to the new technology . The opening sequence is changed a bit , with much more detail of the Major . Other scenes of note are helicopter scenes that benefit greatly from the addition of the high def graphics .
The DVD has lots of extras on it , including the original version of the movie . This looks better when played through my Blu-ray player than the original played through my standard DVD player . All in all , even if you don't care for the updated version , you can still watch the original through this DVD , and you will get the extra features on the disc .
This is the one movie that I can greatly recommend purchasing , even if you have the original DVD .
031 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Quality redraw of the original 1995 masterpiece . BD also includes the original anime and the Oshii interview from the Special Edition set .
033 4 I can see the problems the other reviewers have written about , and I can't argue that the new CGI doesn't match the look of the old film . I got this BluRay because I love the movie , and just wanted to see it ( not expecting much ) . But I got to tell you , I had a blast watching it . The new ( or redone might be more accurate ) opening scene is amazing . Even though the new visuals might not match , they are a welcome addition . It doesn't replace the original version ( which is included on the disk , standard format , under special features . Note : It is not listed on cover ) , but it is really well done .
Most impressive , is the new 6.1 mix . They have completely re-done the sound mix , re did sound effects , and remixed levels and speaker placement . It sounds amazing . One of the best sound mixes I have ever heard on Bluray . Actually , looking for a stronger word than amazing , but can't think of the proper adjective . If you are a audiophile , this reason alone is enough to buy it . You will not be disappointed .
034 4 Bought this at Best Buy , apparently it was out early . The 2.0 version looks great , but the CG ( especially the CG major at the begining ) loses some of the charm . Fortunatly , the original 1995 version is included as a bonus feature .
035 4 I rented this expecting an visual overall of the film . It's just about three scenes in full 3D CGI where as the rest of the film is simply cleaned up . I didnt want anyone else mislead with this 2.0 edition . I'm glad that I did not purchase this again .
036 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Although the purists seem to prefer the original version , I feel the new , updated version is also worth watching and having . Of course you get both with this Blu ray . I am happy with this version .
037 4 Although the purists seem to prefer the original version , I feel the new , updated version is also worth watching and having . Of course you get both with this Blu ray . I am happy with this version .
038 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
I have to say , I'm pretty disappointed by the remastered version . Several of my favorite spots have been replaced by soulless CG versions , which seem jarring when interposed between cell animation sequences . I prefer the original voice-acting work as well . At some point , I just stopped watching , when it was clear it couldn't offer anything close to the experience of watching the original . At least the original version is included on the disc .
Buy the disc if you want an HD copy of the original GitS ( though i can't really tell the difference from the DVD , upscaled on the PS3 . . . perhapss that's all it is ? ) . The remastered version definitely has a cleaner , slightly more fluid look ( higher framerate ? ) , but if you already have GitS , I wouldn't bother with this one .
039 4 I have to say , I'm pretty disappointed by the remastered version . Several of my favorite spots have been replaced by soulless CG versions , which seem jarring when interposed between cell animation sequences . I prefer the original voice-acting work as well . At some point , I just stopped watching , when it was clear it couldn't offer anything close to the experience of watching the original . At least the original version is included on the disc .
Buy the disc if you want an HD copy of the original GitS ( though i can't really tell the difference from the DVD , upscaled on the PS3 . . . perhapss that's all it is ? ) . The remastered version definitely has a cleaner , slightly more fluid look ( higher framerate ? ) , but if you already have GitS , I wouldn't bother with this one .
040 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
if you like or dont even know what ghost in the shell is about you should buy this . . . but dave its the same thing as the original with crappy cgi blah blah blah shut up and sit down
041 4 if you like or dont even know what ghost in the shell is about you should buy this . . . but dave its the same thing as the original with crappy cgi blah blah blah shut up and sit down
042 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
While I enjoyed the original story a great deal , I was never a fan of this movie in any form . Nothing about the production ever really lived up to the hype surrounding it , and with the exception of the backgrounds , the animation was only marginally better than that of the first Patlabor . When I heard they were giving it the George Lucas treatment I couldn't help but roll my eyes , and when I saw the side-by-side comparisons floating around the internet , I couldn't find any reason to stop rolling them .
Despite my feelings of apathy , I picked up the disc and finally popped it in the player last night . While I agree that they went way , way , WAY too far re-doing the major in 3D during the opening and diving sequences , for the most part , I found myself enjoying all the other little tweaks a great deal . While it seems like all they did was run some soft focus filter over everything to hide the rough edges on the surface , this version of the film really does do a better job of sustaining the atmosphere it strives to create than did its predecessor . I'd never really given much thought to the gender mismatch between the Puppet Master's voice and body , but now that I've seen it this way , the character comes off as more benevolent than foreboding , which is much more in line with what I always felt Shirow was hoping to portray .
Sure , the extras are lame , but what do you expect from Manga ? I'm also glad that nobody wasted money paying the TV actors to re-dub anything , as they are absolutely horrible . I have no idea how anyone can sit through anything dubbed in any language .
043 4 While I enjoyed the original story a great deal , I was never a fan of this movie in any form . Nothing about the production ever really lived up to the hype surrounding it , and with the exception of the backgrounds , the animation was only marginally better than that of the first Patlabor . When I heard they were giving it the George Lucas treatment I couldn't help but roll my eyes , and when I saw the side-by-side comparisons floating around the internet , I couldn't find any reason to stop rolling them .
Despite my feelings of apathy , I picked up the disc and finally popped it in the player last night . While I agree that they went way , way , WAY too far re-doing the major in 3D during the opening and diving sequences , for the most part , I found myself enjoying all the other little tweaks a great deal . While it seems like all they did was run some soft focus filter over everything to hide the rough edges on the surface , this version of the film really does do a better job of sustaining the atmosphere it strives to create than did its predecessor . I'd never really given much thought to the gender mismatch between the Puppet Master's voice and body , but now that I've seen it this way , the character comes off as more benevolent than foreboding , which is much more in line with what I always felt Shirow was hoping to portray .
Sure , the extras are lame , but what do you expect from Manga ? I'm also glad that nobody wasted money paying the TV actors to re-dub anything , as they are absolutely horrible . I have no idea how anyone can sit through anything dubbed in any language .
044 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
if your a ghost in the shell fan u'll love this 2.0 ver . if you don't the fullengh original movie is under features this movie 2.0 nd the original look soo much better than the old dvd ver ever did . this blu ray has soo much extras nd all sorts of cool stuff for 13 dollars its a great deal .
045 4 if your a ghost in the shell fan u'll love this 2.0 ver . if you don't the fullengh original movie is under features this movie 2.0 nd the original look soo much better than the old dvd ver ever did . this blu ray has soo much extras nd all sorts of cool stuff for 13 dollars its a great deal .
046 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Ghost in the Shell is one of the finest works of the genre . A groundbreaking narrative about the nature of humanity and what it truly means to be alive . The story revolves around the emergence of a notorious cyber terrorist known only as The Puppet Master , a terrorist with the ability to hack into the most highly-secured computer systems around the globe , as well as into people's cyber-augmented minds . Section 9 - - a group of highly trained Counter-Terrorism Operatives is tasked with bringing this individual to justice . The movie's protagonist , the fearless Major Motoko Kusanagi leads this operation and delves into her own inner termoil dealing with the nature of her own blurred past .
Video 5 / 5
OK , since I'm not too familiar with the technical jargon ( plus I already used up all of my good SAT words on the intro ) I'll just tell you this - - it looks great ! Compared to the scratchy , washed out DVD version , GitS 2.0 is vibrant colorful , and incredibly sharp .
Audio 5 / 5
Big explosions , loud cars , booming um . . . booms ? It sounds great . The same care that was given to sharpening the video transfer went into the audio as well .
Extras . . . depends
The Anime purists out there will undoubtedly turn their collective noses up at the thought of their precious Ghost in the Shell undergoing an unnecessary facelift . However , with the advent of HD technology - - a lot of the CG content that was added doesn't detract from the experience but makes the film seem more polished and just fits in better than the archaic computer generated effects that were present in the original . If you can overlook this , the wealth of new effects and content added makes GitS feel like a whole new movie .
I highly recommend picking this up if you're an Anime fan , or if you just want to show off your shiny new Blu Ray player to a room full of your envious friends .
047 4 Ghost in the Shell is one of the finest works of the genre . A groundbreaking narrative about the nature of humanity and what it truly means to be alive . The story revolves around the emergence of a notorious cyber terrorist known only as The Puppet Master , a terrorist with the ability to hack into the most highly-secured computer systems around the globe , as well as into people's cyber-augmented minds . Section 9 - - a group of highly trained Counter-Terrorism Operatives is tasked with bringing this individual to justice . The movie's protagonist , the fearless Major Motoko Kusanagi leads this operation and delves into her own inner termoil dealing with the nature of her own blurred past .
Video 5 / 5
OK , since I'm not too familiar with the technical jargon ( plus I already used up all of my good SAT words on the intro ) I'll just tell you this - - it looks great ! Compared to the scratchy , washed out DVD version , GitS 2.0 is vibrant colorful , and incredibly sharp .
Audio 5 / 5
Big explosions , loud cars , booming um . . . booms ? It sounds great . The same care that was given to sharpening the video transfer went into the audio as well .
Extras . . . depends
The Anime purists out there will undoubtedly turn their collective noses up at the thought of their precious Ghost in the Shell undergoing an unnecessary facelift . However , with the advent of HD technology - - a lot of the CG content that was added doesn't detract from the experience but makes the film seem more polished and just fits in better than the archaic computer generated effects that were present in the original . If you can overlook this , the wealth of new effects and content added makes GitS feel like a whole new movie .
I highly recommend picking this up if you're an Anime fan , or if you just want to show off your shiny new Blu Ray player to a room full of your envious friends .
048 4 Saw this on the shelf at walmart and read the back of the box . . . For this definitive Version 2.0 release ALL the original animations are reproduced with latest film and animation technologies , including 3D-CGI . .
Also the cover art and the 4 screenshots on the back are all in CGI making me think the entire movie had been remade in CGI . I thought AWESOME ! and grabbed it right then , ran home and popped it in my player . . . . . . and saw almost nothing new . There is only about 3 - 5 minutes of CGI graphics spread throughout the movie in 5 - 10 second clips . The rest of the film looks exactly like my original version DVD which is still very good but has dated graphics and a washed out look to the colors . The CGI scenes were so short and few that I was very frustrated seeing the picture cut back to 1995 era graphics after seeing 5 seconds or so of wonderful CGI .
Another reviewer stated this is the original in HD well you can't get HD in a standard DVD only Blu ray . . . it's not Hi Def . And putting a standard def movie on a Blu Ray Disc won't make it magically hi def either . I had watched the original DVD just days earlier and even though they say this version is remastered I truly could not see anything that made me say hmm that looks clearer or sharper or more vivid . It looked exactly the same to me on a 36 screen . Dated and bland washed out colors not counting the CGI of course .
I know hardcore Ghost fans will buy it no matter what but if you're like me and just loved the film ; already owned the original and were hoping for a brand new experience . . . . you won't get it except for a few minutes of short CGI scenes and to me not worth the $14.99 I paid for it .
It would have truly been awesome had the movie been completely remade in CGI and in my opinion if they could do it for 5 minutes then they could have done it for the other 78 minutes as well . I would have willingly paid $50 for that . I was very disappointed .
So bottom line Ghost in The Shell 2.0 is more like V1.2 but by all means by this version if you never saw the original . This is still a great movie .
Lastly I know the purists out there see CGI as an abomination and if done poorly it is but I am a fan of well made CGI and for the record I really like the original animation just that the colors seemed washed out and on the dull side . If they could not do a full CGI version I would have preferred to have the colors touched up and made more vivid . The animation by itself is some of the best I've ever seen .
Also I am commenting on the standard DVD version . I have not seen the blu ray as I don't own a blu ray player or HDTV . I watched the film on an antique CRT Television which was state of the art 10 years ago and on a plain vanilla dvd player . But I still think my comments are valid because not everyone has $100 bills bulging from their wallets and a lot of people will still be using those antique tv's for a long time to come .
I am also a fan of the English Dub version . I hate subtitles and I know that makes me a barbarian to the purists out there : ) but listening to anime in the original Japanese gives me a headache especially with those squeaky , whiny female voices . Japanese men must be really insecure in their masculinity to make all their women sound like a 5 year old girl throwing a hissyfit in a store because mommy said no to the toy they saw . So I really liked that they used the original english soundtrack . Nothing annoys me more than replacing the original voices with different actors .
As far as the special features , well to annoy the purists out there again : ) I really don't care about the the directors commentaries , I just want to sit down and enjoy the movie . I also don't want to see any deleted scenes . Put them back in and give me an uncut version instead .
Well that's my 2 cents . Hope you find it helpful .
049 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 ( blu ray ) won't play on my Panasonic DMP-BD35 blu ray player ( profile 2.0 ) . It freezes at 00 : 04 into the movie , and then the player has to be power-reset . It also freezes if I go through scene selection and choose to start on a later scene . There is no problem with any of the special features , and the player has no problems with any of my other ~ 20 blu ray discs .
I exchanged one copy of this disc , thinking it was defective . Amazon sent me a replacement , and it's defective in exactly the same way .
050 4 Ghost in the Shell 2.0 ( blu ray ) won't play on my Panasonic DMP-BD35 blu ray player ( profile 2.0 ) . It freezes at 00 : 04 into the movie , and then the player has to be power-reset . It also freezes if I go through scene selection and choose to start on a later scene . There is no problem with any of the special features , and the player has no problems with any of my other ~ 20 blu ray discs .
I exchanged one copy of this disc , thinking it was defective . Amazon sent me a replacement , and it's defective in exactly the same way .
051 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
If you don't already own a copy of GITS and have a Blu ray player this is the copy you want to buy . looks amazing in hd and is an anime classic . It also has the original version of the movie under the extras menu for those hard core fans who like the original movie's look better . This is a must own for any anime fan .
052 4 If you don't already own a copy of GITS and have a Blu ray player this is the copy you want to buy . looks amazing in hd and is an anime classic . It also has the original version of the movie under the extras menu for those hard core fans who like the original movie's look better . This is a must own for any anime fan .
053 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
That inspired two brothers to add a little more kung-Fu & bullet frenzy into their sci-fi movie back in ' 99 .
055 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
I will start by saying the original Ghost in the Shell is one of my favorite films of all time . I am a computer scientist researching AI , and it ranks right up there with 2001 : A Space Odyssey and Blade Runner ( Also The Matrix which was influenced heavily by GitS ) for movies that have shaped my view of reality and what is possible .
Now you should know that the original version of the film is indeed on this blu-ray , Thank you very much ! The original , however , does not look cleaned up like the 2.0 version is ( maybe because original means untouched ! ) . I , like many other people commenting , much prefer the original masterpiece to this new 2.0 incarnation . The original is still worth the purchase of this blu-ray . Really one of the greatest films ever produced .
056 4 I will start by saying the original Ghost in the Shell is one of my favorite films of all time . I am a computer scientist researching AI , and it ranks right up there with 2001 : A Space Odyssey and Blade Runner ( Also The Matrix which was influenced heavily by GitS ) for movies that have shaped my view of reality and what is possible .
Now you should know that the original version of the film is indeed on this blu-ray , Thank you very much ! The original , however , does not look cleaned up like the 2.0 version is ( maybe because original means untouched ! ) . I , like many other people commenting , much prefer the original masterpiece to this new 2.0 incarnation . The original is still worth the purchase of this blu-ray . Really one of the greatest films ever produced .
057 4 This review is from :
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 [ Blu-ray ] ( Blu-ray )
The most groundbreaking anime EVER ( suck it Akira ! ) gets the royal treatment . What makes this great is that this edition includes the original on blu-ray ( though I already had the DVD Special Edition ) AND the remastered edition ! If you watch sci-fi anime and have NOT seen this you are missing out on something great .
Don't mistake this with Stand Alone Complex . The SAC series is not related to the movies despite being based on them . The events in the two movies never happened in the SAC series or Solid State Society . So you can watch either the movie or SAC first without spoiling anything .
Even if you are like me and have the DVD Anniversary SPecial Edition you should still grab this one on blu-ray while it is still available .
058 4 The most groundbreaking anime EVER ( suck it Akira ! ) gets the royal treatment . What makes this great is that this edition includes the original on blu-ray ( though I already had the DVD Special Edition ) AND the remastered edition ! If you watch sci-fi anime and have NOT seen this you are missing out on something great .
Don't mistake this with Stand Alone Complex . The SAC series is not related to the movies despite being based on them . The events in the two movies never happened in the SAC series or Solid State Society . So you can watch either the movie or SAC first without spoiling anything .
Even if you are like me and have the DVD Anniversary SPecial Edition you should still grab this one on blu-ray while it is still available .
