We finally get to see a full trailer for Rupert Sanders’ upcoming Ghost in the Shell live action adaptation of the popular manga series of the same name. There have been fears of a general ‘Westernization’ of the story, but this trailer should put those fears to rest. The trailer abounds with Japanese inspired Sci-Fi imagery - though complaints about Scarlett Johansson's casting as the lead will likely continue.
I felt echos of Blade Runner and Akira in the design work of the film - as well as individual shots that were direct callbacks to the 1995 Ghost in the Shell anime. All in all the trailer made me far more excited for the film than I was before I saw it, which is always a good sign. Although I’m not confident in Sanders as a director, but what we saw of the action in the trailer looked unique and well composed.
A new behind the scenes trailer doesn’t show too much new footage, but it was refreshing to see a lot of footage of practical wire based stunts. It looks like Johansson will be performing at least a portion of her own stunt work. Also notable in the behind the scenes footage is Mamoru Oshii, the director of the original anime, giving his blessing to the production and the Johansson casting choice.
All signs point to a successful Sci-Fi action film. Ghost in the Shell will release on March 31 in the United States.
