I’m thrilled to announce my pick for the next IndieWeb Movie Club: Ghost in the Shell (1995).
This film is one of the most visually stunning and thought-provoking pieces of sci-fi ever made, and it holds a special place in my heart. It’s no exaggeration to say that without Ghost in the Shell, there would be no Matrix. The Wachowskis cited it as a major inspiration, from its philosophical questions about identity and humanity to its groundbreaking cyberpunk aesthetic.
As you watch, I invite you to consider a few questions: How do you think the film’s vision of technology and identity holds up in today’s world? Do its slower pacing and quieter moments allow you to sink deeper into its world, or do they feel like a relic of another era?
One thing that’s always stayed with me is the film’s pacing. By conventional standards, it’s slow, but for me, that slowness is a strength. It gives you time to take in the incredible visuals and reflect on the weight of its questions: What makes us human? What defines our identity? These are themes we still wrestle with today, particularly in a world where our online and offline selves are increasingly blurred.
The music is another unforgettable aspect. Kenji Kawai’s haunting score, with its blend of traditional Japanese drumming and religious chanting, creates a tone that feels alien and otherworldly—ironically so, given how ancient and rooted in tradition it is. Does the music’s mix of the ancient and futuristic enhance the story for you, or does it create a kind of disconnect?
I’m also fascinated by how Ghost in the Shell fits into the larger lineage of sci-fi. From Blade Runner in the ’80s to the groundbreaking anime of the ’90s like Akira and Evangelion, each of these films pushed the boundaries of storytelling and visuals. They paved the way for The Matrix and so much of the sci-fi that came after.
There’s even a fascinating anecdote about the Wachowskis reportedly showing clips of Akira to studio executives to pitch The Matrix. While unconfirmed, it reflects the profound influence anime had on their work. And speaking of identity, The Matrix itself was rumored to have included a character concept where one gender was presented in the real world and another in the simulation. Though it didn’t make the final cut, it’s a powerful idea that aligns with the themes of Ghost in the Shell.
A huge thanks to Mark for kicking off this club—it’s been such a great way to revisit classics and see them in a new light. For instance, Sarah’s take on When Harry Met Sally gave me a perspective I’d never considered before. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on Ghost in the Shell. What themes or details stand out to you? How do you think it resonates today?
If you’d like to share your reflections, write a blog post anytime this month. If you’re using IndieWeb technologies like Web Mentions, I’ll see your post automatically. Otherwise, feel free to email me a link directly. I’ll gather everyone’s replies and publish a roundup at the beginning of next month!