Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 Season 2 In-Depth Review: Beyond Expectations

A comprehensive review and recommendation of "Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045" series season 2

overview

Season 2 of the Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 series was released on Netflix on May 23, 2022. The series is based on the original Ghost in the Shell manga by Masamune Shirow and is co-directed by Kenji Kamiyama and Shinji Aramaki. It is produced by Production IG and SOLA DIGITAL ARTS and produced by the Ghost in the Shell 2045 Production Committee. With 12 episodes, each 30 minutes long, viewers can once again enjoy the adventures of Kusanagi Motoko and Public Security Section 9.

story

Season 2 depicts Section 9 of Public Security facing a new threat in a future society where the boundaries between AI and humans are becoming increasingly blurred. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a global economic collapse and the resulting social unrest, as Motoko Kusanagi and her team struggle to thwart the plot of the Posthuman terrorist group. Continuing from Season 1, the series delves deeper into the coexistence of AI and humans and the ethical issues that accompany it.

character

Motoko Kusanagi: The protagonist of the series and leader of Public Security Section 9. While she has high combat abilities as a cyborg, she also retains human emotions and ethics. In Season 2, her inner conflict is further depicted, leaving a deep impression on viewers.

Batou: Motoko Kusanagi's right-hand man. He is known for his powerful fighting style and loyalty, and in Season 2, his past and relationship with his family will be revealed.

Togusa: He is the only member of Public Security Section 9 who has a family. In Season 2, his bond with his family becomes an important element of the story.

Daisuke Aramaki: Commander of Public Security Section 9. In Season 2, there are many scenes where his political stance intersects with the fate of Public Security Section 9.

Visuals and Music

Season 2 of the Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 series is characterized by its visual expression that makes full use of 3DCG. Thanks to the technical capabilities of Production IG and SOLA DIGITAL ARTS, the realistic depiction of the futuristic city and the intensity of the battle scenes have increased. In particular, the scene in which Kusanagi Motoko runs through cyberspace is an exquisite blend of visual beauty and tension.

Musically, the soundtrack by Cornelius (Keigo Oyamada) enhances the atmosphere of the series. The electronic sounds and melodies express the coldness of the future society and the warmth of humanity. The opening theme "Sustain++" in particular is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.

evaluation

Season 2 of the Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 series faithfully follows the themes of the original work while depicting the problems of future society from a new perspective. The story development and character growth are carefully depicted, leaving viewers with a deep impression. In addition, the fusion of 3DCG visual expression and music will be highly praised both visually and aurally.

However, some viewers have said that the use of 3DCG detracts from the atmosphere of the original work. It may feel strange, especially for fans who are used to traditional 2D animation. Also, the story development is somewhat complicated, and some parts may be difficult for beginners to understand.

Recommendation

Season 2 of the Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 series is highly recommended for viewers who enjoy science fiction and cyberpunk, especially if you have enjoyed the original work or its predecessor Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex. It is also recommended for those who are interested in AI and ethical issues.

For beginners, we recommend starting from Season 1. This will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the characters' backgrounds and the flow of the story. Also, by reading the original manga and watching the movie version, you will be able to get a greater sense of the appeal of the entire series.

Related Titles

"Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex": The previous work in the series, it depicts the exploits of Kusanagi Motoko and Public Security Section 9. It is made in 2D animation, and you can really feel the atmosphere of the original work.

Ghost in the Shell: The original manga by Masamune Shirow. It delves deeply into the problems of a future society and the impact of cyber technology. It is the basis for the story and characters of the series.

Ghost in the Shell: An anime film released in 1995. It depicts the exploits of Motoko Kusanagi and Public Security Section 9, and contains many of the series' iconic scenes.

Conclusion

Season 2 of the Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 series is a work that delves deeply into the problems of future society and will be highly praised for its visual and aural quality. While faithfully following the themes of the original work, it develops the story from a new perspective, deeply moving the viewer. It is highly recommended for those who like science fiction and cyberpunk, and those who are interested in AI and ethical issues. For beginners, we recommend watching from Season 1, and by enjoying the original work and the movie version together, you will be able to feel the charm of the entire series even more.