Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (PG-13, 2004)

GHOST IN THE SHELL 2: INNOCENCE begins three years after the original, with the disappearance of undercover cop, Major Kusanagi. The story centers on Kusanagi's new, more human partner, the mountainous cyborg Batou, and their investigation into the serial killings of "gynoids," robots (the future's answer to geishas). Like Kusanagi before him, Batou delves into dilemmas about the meaning of humanity in relation to cybernetics and his "ghost," or soul.

Anime has come a long way since the first Ghost in the Shell (1995). The movie's gorgeous mix of traditional and 3-D animation makes for dynamic spectacle. Where the first Ghost had static dialogue scenes, Innocence has diverting visuals. Unfortunately, this sequel adds little new content. The plot is as convoluted as first movie's, and for all the metaphysics and philosophy involved, the story is not much different. Fans expecting a big payoff after a decade of waiting might be left wanting more.

Studio: DreamWorks
Director: Mamoru Oshii
Cast: Akio Otsuka, Atsuko Tanaka, Koichi Yamadera
Genre: Action/Adventure
Run time: 100 minutes
Theatrical release: September 17, 2004
DVD release: December 28, 2004
MPAA Rating: PG-13
MPAA explanation: violence, disturbing images and brief language