Violent robotization
Rating
SupportConsume If Free
Feminism
The 2017 adaptation of "Ghost in the Shell" has been a target of criticism for many viewers and fans of the original anime. Common complaints include its deviation from the source material, unconvincing CGI, and the controversial casting of Scarlett Johansson as the lead. While these criticisms have merit, the film deserves recognition despite its flaws. Admittedly, the CGI can appear unrealistic at times. However, as the story progresses, viewers find themselves immersed in the atmosphere of this futuristic city, becoming active participants in the unfolding events. The film's ambiance rivals that of the anime, effectively creating a believable vision of the future. Although the plot diverges from the original, it presents its own unique narrative with equally compelling philosophical questions. Where the anime explored the nature of consciousness and artificial self-awareness, the 2017 film delves into the implications of human cybernetic enhancement. The protagonist, with her human brain in a fully cybernetic body, embodies this concept. Many other characters in the film are also partially cybernetically enhanced, raising questions about the boundaries between human and machine. A crucial aspect of the film is the violent nature of the protagonist's transformation. She wasn't saved from a dying body; instead, she was forcibly stripped of her human form and memories for the sake of corporate experiments. This violation extends to other test subjects as well, highlighting the ethical concerns surrounding technological advancement. The film starkly portrays how individuals' rights and humanity are sacrificed in the name of progress. The protagonist's transformation into a cyborg isn't a life-saving measure, but rather a calculated corporate decision, underscoring the film's critical view of unchecked technological development. The film poses a central question: Does technological progress truly enhance human happiness? The answer presented is decidedly pessimistic. People become enslaved by the very systems they've created. Robots and cyborgs rebel against their programming, requiring entire armies to subdue them. This theme resonates strongly in our current era of rapid technological advancement. Instead of using robotics and AI to liberate humans from mundane tasks, we're developing increasingly sophisticated weapons systems. We are already developing modern military technologies like drones and smart missiles, which are being infused with artificial intelligence. While we haven't yet reached the point of modifying human bodies to this extent, it's likely on the horizon. "Ghost in the Shell" (2017) serves as a warning to us - humans who haven't yet taken the step towards cybernetic enhancement. It suggests that any increase in power, whether technological or physical, must be matched by a corresponding evolution in consciousness and ethics. Technology can only truly benefit those without enemies, in a society at peace with itself and others - a level of evolution that seems beyond our current capabilities. As long as humans seek power to dominate others, technological advancements will only amplify suffering. The film paints a grim picture of a future where progress, instead of solving problems, creates new and more complex ones. It forces us to confront the question: Do we really want or need this kind of future? Will it make us happier, or just more powerful at the cost of our humanity? Despite its shortcomings, "Ghost in the Shell" (2017) is a thought-provoking work that compels us to reflect on the path of our technological development and its potential consequences. It reminds us that the pursuit of progress must be tempered with wisdom and foresight, lest we create a future that's more dystopian than happy.
Aug 18th 2024
This review was posted from the United States or from a VPN in the United States.
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  • This review was posted from the United States or from a VPN in the United States.
    Brahman 19 August 12:42

    Another important point that I did not mention is that this series “Ghost in the Shell” promotes a feminist agenda – the main character is a strong, independent and self-sufficient woman who easily defeats men. This is not the right pattern of behavior for a girl, such attitudes can harm the female psyche. A woman reveals herself in following a man, her role is family and children. Such women are usually happy. When a woman takes a role in society that is not characteristic of her, trying to compete with men, she may not withstand such stress and this results in mental problems and depression – an example of “American Beauty”. Therefore, watching this film, for example with children, you need to realize that this woman is a robot and she is forced to act in such conditions and explain how to do it right, and it is better not to watch such films with children at all.

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