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Rawle Austin presents...

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Wow, I've just watched this amazing anime series. Verdict? Freaking amazing!

In my opinion this is the true sequel to the 1995 original movie, Ghost in the Shell.

I went into this series knowing only the fantastic first movie and the not as good sequel. From the opening credits I was not disappointed! The beginning theme tune really pulled me into atmosphere of the world of the Ghost in the Shell. The stories basically revolve around Public Security Section Nine solving various mysteries involving computer and robot crime.

Every episode is its own tale but many are linked to an overall story. The extensive research put into the production is plain to see. Astounding. Not one dud episode. Action, edge of your seat thrills and emotion gripping drama are the order of the day!

It has an underlying theme using politics and current affairs which serve to ground the stories in a reality which makes you believe in their world. You've probably heard the term cyberpunk, it heavily influenced The Matrix movie. Well this is it in all its glory.

Click to find out more about Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 1st Gig [DVD]

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is set in 2030 and the main difference it has to our world today is the existence of the cyberbrain. This is common throughout the world and is central to the story. The main character Major Motoko Kusanagi is a cyborg whose use of the cyberbrain gives her an amazing edge over most. She is the no nonsense, take charge field leader of the group and is the driving force of the series. Definitely a favourite of mine. Her absence in the movie sequel really harmed it in my opinion. The animation on display in this series is some of the best I have ever seen. Traditional 2D and CGI techniques are melded together effortlessly to create a work of pure beauty.

The story and universe was originally created by Masamune Shirow in manga/comic book format. The series is directed by Kenji Kamiyama who leads a team of writers to produce the best stories possible. Another main chararcter is Lieutenant Batou also a cyborg and is the powerhouse of the team and is the perfect balance to Kusanagi. I like his use of dry humour as he goes about his business.

Rounding out the trio of main characters, who also appeared in the previous Ghost in the Shell movies is Togusa. He is fully human but uses cyberbrian technology in this series. He gives us the main human point of view. Also, Chief Daisuke Aramaki leads the group and informs them of their missions. His wise experienced character brings a calming force to the team.

The remaining team members, new to the series are Ishikawa, Saito, Pazu and Boma. The team is aided in the field by sentinent mini battle tanks called Tachikomas. These large robots with huge firepower have the voices of school girls and this is an interesting juxtaposition that I find quite amusing.

I also loved the music in the series which was composed by Yoko Kanno. It pulled me deeper into each story and was almost a character itself!

This series has it all. Addictively watchable.

Edge of your seat scenes and intelligent stories with the cybernetic team Section 9!

Just who is the Laughing Man?!

Overall I give the series 9 out of 10.

Here's a taste including the fantasticly haunting opening theme tune which is actually performed in Russian, English and Latin!

It's called Inner Universe composed by Yoko Kanno and sung by Origa.

Enjoy.

The second season looks to be just as good as the first, with teh lessons learnt from the first series, this will be a fantastic ride!

Click here to check out Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig [DVD]

Check out this link to learn more! http://www.ghostintheshell.tv/

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