GHOST IN THE SHELL / Paramount Pictures, Dreamworks Pictures
It seems like a live-action GHOST IN THE SHELL movie has been in the works for just about as long as a live-action AKIRA. Basically, a long ass time. Well, it appears someone got their shit together because it’s finally happening and will be directed by Rupert Sanders starring none other than Scarlett “Black Widow” Johansson. Check out the first official image above from Paramount and Dreamworks Pictures. Controversy ensues.
GHOST IN THE SHELL is a live-action remake of 1995’s GHOST IN THE SHELL animation from director Mamoru Oshii which was based on the original manga by Masamune Shirow. The animation was definitely a gateway drug for me into the world of high-quality anime and will forever have a place in my nerd heart.
Do I think this live-action film should be made? Probably not. Will it be any good? 50/50 chance. Should you be offended by the casting of a white actor in an adaptation of a Japanese property? I can’t say that’s a healthy thing to get offended about. There are way worse things going on in our world, but what the hell do I know?
At the end of the day, if Sanders and Johansson can deliver a sweet sci-fi action film starring a bad ass female robots set in a futuristic wonderland I’m ok with it all. Nothing will replace the original, and who knows, they may have something special on their hands. Just saying. I’ll give it a shot.
GHOST IN THE SHELL lands March 31st 2017
