Thanks to the long-awaited GHOST IN THE SHELL 2 INNOCENCE, which continues Mamoru Oshiis acclaimed anime cyber-tech thriller, we can now view and analyze both movies on DVD, including a brand new GHOST IN THE SHELL Special Edition.
INNOCENCE (DreamWorks Home Ent., $29.99) is actually very self-contained as it follows the cyborg detective Batous attempt to unravel the mystery of the murderous robot revolt with complex philosophical overtones. The hybrid CG animation by Production I.G is quite beautiful and elegant, with 3D backgrounds complementing the finely shaded 2D character animation. Extras include directors commentary and a making-of doc.
As for the original GHOST IN THE SHELL ($34.98, Manga Video), it has been digitally remastered as a two-disc collection with a slew of extras. The king of the cyber-tech anime thrillers echoes BLADE RUNNER and anticipates THE MATRIX.
Bonus features include:* Character Dossiers* Digital Works* Production Report
Bill Desowitz, former editor of VFXWorld, is currently the Crafts Editor of IndieWire.
