Ep 5. Ghost In The Shell (2017) - Honest Trailers
- July 25, 2017
In this episode of Honest Trailers, we delve into the live-action adaptation of the beloved anime film, Ghost In The Shell. The trailer opens by acknowledging the controversy surrounding the casting of Scarlett Johansson as the lead character, Major, a role that many felt should have gone to an Asian actress. The narrator points out that Johansson's character is actually a brain implanted into a white body, but notes that this explanation doesn't really excuse the whitewashing.
From there, the trailer takes us on a journey through the intricate, futuristic world of the film, highlighting the stunning visuals and impressive special effects. The narrator notes that the film's world-building is one of its strongest aspects, citing the attention to detail and the incorporation of various existing technologies. However, he also points out that the film tends to rely on its visuals to carry the story, which can lead to a disjointed narrative.
Throughout the trailer, we're treated to clips of iconic scenes from both the original anime film and the live-action adaptation, allowing viewers to see how the two compare. The narrator points out some of the similarities and differences between the two versions, noting that while the live-action film takes some creative liberties, it does stay fairly faithful to the source material.
One of the major criticisms aimed at the live-action Ghost In The Shell has to do with its pacing and structure, and the trailer doesn't shy away from addressing these issues. The narrator notes that the film can feel slow at times, and that it "forgets to be fun" in its efforts to be taken seriously. He also points out that the film struggles to balance its multiple plotlines, leading to a lack of focus and coherence.
Despite these flaws, the trailer acknowledges that there are some standout performances in the film. The narrator points out that Johansson does a good job in the lead role, and that Pilou Asbæk's portrayal of Batou is a highlight. However, he also notes that some of the supporting cast members are underutilized, and that the film doesn't fully explore the relationships between its characters.
Overall, the Honest Trailer for Ghost In The Shell is a balanced and insightful analysis of the film's strengths and weaknesses. While it doesn't shy away from critiquing the film's flaws, it also recognizes the impressive visuals and faithful adaptation of the source material. If you're a fan of the Ghost In The Shell franchise, or simply curious about the live-action adaptation, this Honest Trailer is well worth a watch.
