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DVD Review:Ghost In The Shell
Company/Distributors:Manga Entertainment
Length:82 Minutes
Format:Full-Length Feature
Sound Format:
  • Dual Langauge
  • Japanese 2.0
  • English 5.1
  • Dolby Digital Surround
Screen Format:(Wide-Screen Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1)

Review:

-Ghost In The Shell took the anime world by storm, in fall of 1995. Released theatrically worldwide and gathering a huge array of critical acclaim, the film was destined to become a classic of Japanese animation. Ghost In The Shell was also the very first anime film to be released on DVD by Manga Entertainment, and it is certainly an ideal film for any serious anime DVD-collector.

The film takes place in the year 2029 A.D. The world is a corrupt vast technological realm of harsh computer criminals, antagonists and cyborgs in this advanced sci-fi saga. Ghost In The Shell combines state-of-the-art computer visuals and traditional cel animation to produce a unique look unlike any seen. While seamlessly merging computer/video composits and cel animation, the film creates a unique look all it's own; and an eye-poping visual feast. One which is perfect for DVD. The video quality for Ghost In The Shell is flawless, and is a vast improvement over the video release. Digitally re-mastered footage is perfectly matched through digital-video-transfer, in a beautiful "anamorphic-widescreen image". Although the Japanese track is not by far as impressive as it's english language track, it's still very nice to listen to. The sound effects are all crisp and sharp, and the image excellent.

There are some nice extras including a 30-minute behind-the-scenes look. Complete with never before seen interviews with cast and crew, including the film's director Mamoru Oshii. And the original theatrical trailer. The menu has a relatively nice design, though I have seen better for other titles; it's pretty easy to navigate. The disc also offers extra production information about the film and the characters. Which is nice after all.

In the end, an extremely solid title worthy of any collection. This is truly a stunning piece of Japanese filmaking, and boy; does it look and sound fantastic on DVD.

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