Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (2004)

'Ghost in the Shell 2' is once again directed by Mamuro Oshii and picks up after the 1995 original with the Major having vanished into the vast digital world simply known as 'The Net' and her partners Batou and Togusa investigating another bizarre case involving pleasure model robots killing their respective owners. Along the way, the two begin to unravel a vast and dark conspiracy behind the killings that may lead them to the location of the lost Major.


The film was actually the first animated feature to receive a nomination at the Cannes Film Festival and one of the first major theatrically released anime films in the United States. The culture had grown considerably since the original 'Ghost in the Shell' was released to an underground success back in 1995. However, with this more heavy spotlight, does 'Innocence' live up to its accolades and above all does it belong beside the original's greatness? The short answer is yes, with some trips and falls along the way.

First off, the film is once again a stunningly beauty to look at no doubt, with both deep and dark colors to the bright and vibrant 'Innocence' is one of the best looking anime films to come out even after almost fifteen years later. The film once again incorporates computer animated effects with traditional anime styles, however here it's a little too distracting. The original film received a similar upgrade a few years back, known as 'Ghost in the Shell 2.0' and it suffers from the same problems. The animation is by no means bad, but the original blended it with the traditional animation better whereas in 'Innocence' it can come off as a Playstation 2 cutscene at worst and only slightly above an average 3D animated film at best.


Where this film shines is in its story and deep discussions, like in the original. This one tends to focus more upon the female form and its biology such as child rearing and for many including other females, that may put you off a little. However, the topics and themes of the 'GITS' franchise is what makes them so fascinating to watch over and over again and to discuss with fellow friends. However, while I enjoy the film's story the length at which it goes is a little to long for me personally. 'Innocence' runs about a half hour or so longer than the original and that can cause the film to feel like its dragging at times.

Still, it's worth checking out if you love anime or the first 'Ghost in the Shell' but I wouldn't really call it a 'priority' film. It has pacing issues and some of the animation can be a bit outdated and distracting, but the film still contains the same deep and thought-provoking genius that the original held if not a little more.

Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence

(B+)