It's hard to think of a more groundbreaking anime movie than Ghost in the Shell (1995). Based off the acclaimed manga, the film set a new bar for the format and it has since gone on to become a classic in the genre. Ghost in the Shell's worldwide popularity is largely due to its complex ideas concerning human existence, technology and corruption. And even though the manga has inspired many adaptations over the years, including Scarlett Johansson's upcoming live-action version, the original anime still reigns supreme.
While direct marketing for the live-action version has been somewhat minimal, there have been other strategies employed to entice fans and newcomers alike. Ghost in the Shell celebrated its 25th anniversary of the original manga back in 2014 -- and the 1995 film will also be returning briefly to UK theaters this coming January. Then back in November, Paramount hosted a special trailer launch event in Tokyo that presented the first footage of the live-action version. However, what the marketing has greatly overlooked is home media. Luckily, we can all rest easy now.
Anchor Bay Entertainment has announced a Ghost in the Shell limited steelbook set to hit shelves on March 14th, 2017. The release date will correspond with Paramount's live-action version, which hits just over two weeks later. While we currently don't know what the steelbook will look like, it's confirmed that the case will feature exclusive Mondo key art.
For those who have yet to check out the original anime, Ghost in the Shell follows a cyborg cop called The Major. She leads a task force that's assigned in bringing down a notorious hacker known as "The Puppet Master." The omnipresent entity hopes to dismantle the millions of human hosts who use cybernetic bodies called "shells" to give themselves supernatural abilities. And because of the dystopian setting, where the entire world is intricately connected, this is obviously an extreme threat. What follows is an incredibly complex, albeit compelling, story about futuristic society.
The anime's limited steelbook is yet another example of how big an impact Ghost in the Shell has made on people. Fans still hold the anime very close to their hearts -- and the heated whitewashing controversies surrounding the live-action version is a perfect example of just that. What remains to be seen, however, is if the general public will be able to acclimate themselves to Ghost in the Shell's uncommon style. What's important to consider is that despite it not being a mass crowd pleaser, Ghost in the Shell's continuing popularity in cinema, television and literature only reaffirms its righteous presence in today's world.
The Ghost in the Shell limited steelbook hits shelves on March 14, 2017.
Source: Anchor Bay
