Ghost in the Shell. In what order should I watch it?

The franchise Ghost in the Shell is one of the most influential works in the cyberpunk genre. It is a cult sci-fi anime film directed by Mamoru Oshii. The plot is based on the manga of the same name (Kōkaku Kidōtai, or "Ghost in the Shell"), created by Masamune Shirow. The first chapter of the manga was published in 1989. Shirow created a rich and deep cyberpunk world that raises questions about human identity, technology, and consciousness. In this article, we will explore all the main feature films of the series, their significance, and context.

This film, directed by Mamoru Oshii, is the cornerstone of the franchise. It tells the story of Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg detective from Section 9, who investigates the case of a mysterious hacker – the Puppet Master.A special role in creating the film's atmosphere is played by the soundtrack composed by Kenji Kawai. His music is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese motifs and modern electronics, emphasizing the depth and mystery of the world of Ghost in the Shell. One of the most memorable tracks is "Making of a Cyborg", a composition that plays during the opening scene of the cyborg's creation.

This film is a direct continuation of the 1995 story. The events unfold around Batou, who investigates a series of murders related to gynoids – humanoid robots that have gone out of control. Motoko appears only briefly in the plot, as she has left her body and exists in virtual space.

This is a remaster of the original 1995 film with updated animation and 3D CGI effects. Some scenes have been reworked, and the color palette has been changed to a warmer tone. The soundtrack has also been updated.

A series of five feature-length episodes that serves as a prequel to the main story. In Arise, the early years of Major Motoko Kusanagi, her first investigations, and the formation of Section 9 are explored. The episodes are titled:

Border 1: Ghost Pain

Motoko Kusanagi investigates the murder of a high-ranking official, which appears to have been committed by a military robot. At the same time, she encounters a conspiracy that questions her loyalty to the government. This part reveals early aspects of her personality and her abilities as a hacker.

Border 2: Ghost Whispers

Section 9 deals with a case of a military coup involving drones with artificial intelligence. Motoko forms an alliance with Batou and other future members of Section 9, demonstrating her leadership qualities.

Border 3: Ghost Tears

Motoko investigates a series of terrorist attacks linked to a mysterious organization. Motoko's personal relationships also become an important element of the plot, adding humanity to her character.

Border 4: Ghost Stands Alone

This part focuses on political intrigue and bioterrorism. Motoko and her team try to prevent a disaster related to the spread of a virus that can affect cybernetic brains.

Border 5: Pyrophoric Cult

The final part of the series. Section 9 faces a religious cult that uses cybernetic technologies to manipulate people. This part lays the groundwork for further character and plot development in the franchise.

This film is a continuation of the Arise series. Section 9 investigates a conspiracy involving the mysterious murder of a minister. Motoko and her team face new challenges in the realm of cybercrime.

A Hollywood adaptation starring Scarlett Johansson. It is a reboot of the story with a reimagining of the plot of the original 1995 film. The film reveals the origins of Major Kusanagi and her struggle against a corporation that manipulates her past.

The films of Ghost in the Shell are more than just cyberpunk stories. They provoke thought about what it means to be human in a world where technology blurs the lines between the real and the virtual. Each part adds something new to the overall picture, expanding the universe and immersing the viewer deeper into its philosophy. No matter which film you start with, this franchise will leave you with questions that will remain relevant for many years to come.