If you thought the Scarlett Johansson Ghost in the Shell movie was the only Ghost in the Shell thing going on, you sorely underestimate the longevity of this two-decade-plus franchise. Before the long gestating live-action film hits American theaters, the latest animated film is coming to Japan summer 2015.
The true teaser fashion, the trailer doesn’t reveal anything substantial regarding the plot, and doesn’t show any characters aside from the main character of the franchise, Major Mokoto Kusanagi – the one Johansson will likely be playing (until they realize how weird it will be calling a white woman “Makoto,” and rename her something like “Mackenzie Kurt.” But if you’ll allow us some speculation, the image of Mokoto in an assembly line may be of some significance. Other adaptations (TV, movies, etc.) of the manga have made no bones about the fact that the Major is one of many android models. Mokoto’s presumed lack of individuality could serve as a plot point in the upcoming film.
Look forward to more details on Ghost in the Shell – animated or otherwise – as they come to light.
Also, if you’re curious about the Japanese text in the trailer, Anime News Network has provided a translation:
Text: The legendary science-fiction work that caused a revolution around the world.
Text: Original Work – Masamune Shirow
Text: A work in celebration of 25 years
Text: The awakened ghost whispers…
Text: Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie
Text: Opens in early summer 2015