In the year 2045, after an economic disaster known as the Simultaneous Global Default which destroyed the value of all forms of paper and electronic currency, the “Big 4” nations of the world are engaged in a state of never-ending “Sustainable War” to keep the economy going. In this world, Mokoto, Batou and other members of Public Security Section 9 have contracted themselves out as mercenaries under the group “GHOST”, using their cybernetic enhancements and battle experience to earn a living while defusing hot-spots across the globe. However, the emergence of “Post Humans” and a conspiracy uncovered by former Chief Aramaki force Section 9 to reunite.
For thoughts on Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required:
Video Quality
Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045 arrives on Blu-Ray from Anime Limited with a dazzling 1080p transfer in its original aspect ratio. The colors are rich and faithfully saturated with dynamic hues that impress at every turn. The transfer handles the numerous environments with ideal stability including no jagged lines or color bleeding. Highlights are carefully contained, and black levels are deep with no signs of compression artifacts or digital anomalies.
The presentation is as accurate to the source as one could desire; It is just a shame that the animation style is one of the biggest impediments to our enjoyment of the series. The decision to make this 3-D animation feels a bit foolish as it eliminates one of our favorite aspects of the franchise. The original hand-drawn animation of Ghost in the Shell or even the digitally enhanced 2-D animation of Standalone Complex is replete with unforgettable detail. This Netflix endeavor is capably assembled but lacks the soul (how appropriate for this property) to lend emotional weight to it. This series does display some enjoyable details brought to life by the animation team. The character designs are somewhat distinct and consistent across the season. This Blu-Ray release represents the intention of the animation very well.
Audio Quality
The Blu-Ray comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track in its original Japanese. The show is presented with optional English and French subtitles. The English dub available on Netflix is not an option on this release. Dialogue comes through clearly without being overpowered by any competing elements. The music complements the material well as it saturates the room. The environmental detail is especially impressive when it comes to making this world feel lived-in and three-dimensional. The soundscape makes the most of its sonic capabilities by providing some natural texture to the world. Anime Limited delivers a grand presentation with this one.
Special Features
- Behind The Scenes: A pretty great 45-minute documentary is provided which details the creation of the series including interviews with the creative team.
- Interview and Behind the Scenes: A brief three-minute piece that takes snippets of the previous featurette a pulls out highlights from the discussion.
- SAC 2045 CG Breakdown: A 13-minute look at the evolution of the animation from motion capture to its final form.
- Previews: This includes a Preview (1:37), Preview Final Version (1:01), and Teaser PV (0:41).
- Textless Opening Animation (1:31)
- Textless Ending Animation (1:31)
- A3 Poster (11.7 x 16.5 inches)
- 4 Art Cards
- 100-Page Booklet
Final Thoughts
Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045 has some interesting ideas throughout this season as it builds upon the original Standalone Complex series, but it does not truly get cooking until the latter half of the season. The early part of the season seems a bit unsure of what it wants to be, yet we are intrigued enough by the overall experience to want to seek out more. We are never going to completely get over the decision to go with this animation style, but we are doing our best to be objective about other aspects of the series. Anime Limited has released a Blu-Ray with an impeccable A/V presentation and terrific physical supplements for fans. Fans of the franchise should give it a shot to see if it works for them.
Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045 is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray in North America and the UK.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Anime Limited and Shout! Studios have supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
