Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence

Synopsis

Continues the story of Ghost in the Shell

In 2029, Niihama City stands as the pinnacle of technological advancement, where cybernetic enhancements are commonplace. Citizens routinely swap their limbs for sophisticated mechanical counterparts, and global connectivity has reached unprecedented heights. Amidst this rapid evolution, Public Security Section 9 is charged with tackling the complex challenges of corruption, terrorism, and other dangers arising from globalization. Led by Major Motoko Kusanagi, Section 9 begins investigating a mysterious hacker known as the "Puppet Master," who leaves victims with their memories entirely wiped. Like many in this futuristic society, the Puppet Master possesses a largely robotic body that grants extraordinary capabilities. As Motoko and her team delve into the mystery, their pursuit grows complicated by interference from rival factions, including Section 6, which adds significant hurdles to the investigation. While grappling with profound existential questions regarding her own identity, Motoko comes to suspect that the Puppet Master may hold the key to understanding her true nature and purpose.

In this installment

In 2032, medical science has pushed humanity into a more technology-dependent existence, giving rise to a population of cyborg citizens. Along with cybernetics, artificial intelligence has advanced rapidly, making androids a practical commercial product. A string of murders carried out by a prototype female android has drawn the attention of Section 9, a unit focused on countering cyber-terrorism. With none of the victims' families filing charges, questions arise about the nature of the androids and their manufacturing process. Months have passed since the Puppet Master incident, and with the Major still missing, the investigation falls to her cyborg commando partner Batou and his newly recruited biological partner, Togusa. Can the two set aside their differences and uncover the truth behind these murders?

Background

Rather than directly adapting the source material like the previous film, Ghost in The Shell 2: Innocence instead is based on an idea present in one of the subplots from the original manga. Alongside the movie, there was a book published that served as a prequel to Innocence called After the Long Goodbye. Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2004, and is so far the only anime to have been nominated for this prestigious award. It won the Feature Film Award in the 9th Animation Kobe Awards in 2004.