Ghost in the Shell (Kokaku kidotai) is a cyberpunk anime film by Mamoru Oshii. It was released in 1995.

The skillful blending of drawn animation and computer-generated imagery excited anime fans when this science fiction mystery was released: many enthusiasts believe Ghost suggests what the future of anime will be, at least in the short term.

Mamoru Oshii directs with a staccato rhythm, alternating sequences of rapid-fire action (car chases, gun battles, explosions) with static dialogue scenes that allow the characters to sort out the vaguely mystical and rather convoluted plot. Kusanagi's final quote from I Corinthians suggests that electronic evolution may compliment and eventually supplant organic evolution.

Synopsis

The year is 2029. The world has become intensively information oriented and humans are well-connected to the network. Crime has developed into a sophisticated stage by hacking into the interactive network. To prevent this, Section 9 is formed. These are cyborgs or "enhanced" humans with incredible strengths and abilities that can access any network on Earth. They are used for undercover work.

One of the key cyborgs is The Major, Motoko Kusanagi, who resembles a cross between The Terminator and a Playboy centerfold. She finds herself caught up in a tangled web of espionage and counterespionage as she searches for the mysterious superhacker known as "The Puppet Master."

Links & References

Ghost in the Shell Information

Movie entry in Internet Movie Database.