Ghost in the Shell 3 Could Happen, but There’s a Catch

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Summary

  • Mamoru Oshii and Production I.G have hinted at potential Ghost in the Shell 3 but face a $18 million hurdle.
  • The cost of Innocence was 2 billion yen, making it a milestone to overcome to greenlight a sequel.
  • Despite challenges, the franchise’s reputation for resilience gives fans hope that Ghost in the Shell 3 could still happen.
Title Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence
Director Mamoru Oshii
Studio Production I.G
Release Date 03/06/2004

For approximately two decades, Mamoru Oshii has been away from directing “Innocence”, the less-acknowledged sequel to his 1995 masterpiece, “Ghost in the Shell”, which was based on the manga by Shirow Masamune and became a cult favorite. However, recent statements by Oshii and a producer at Production I.G hint at the possibility of a third film, though it would likely come with a hefty cost.

Previously in March, director Oshii participated in a 20th Anniversary celebration for the movie “Innocence”. This event was also attended by Akio Otsuka, the Japanese voice actor of Batou. During this gathering, Oshii hinted at the prospect of a third film. He mentioned that there had been almost an occurrence and the project failed to materialize, but he showed continued interest in directing it if the chance arises in the future.

What’s Standing in Oshii’s Way?

If these stories were simply left unfinished, there wouldn’t be much discussion about them. Over time, numerous promising anime projects have found themselves stuck in development hell, including Ninja Scroll 2, Despera, and Ghost in the Shell 3. Compared to these two, the pre-production for Ghost in the Shell 3 has been minimal at best. When directors express a wish to revive these dormant projects, it’s similar to saying “Sure, that sounds interesting.

However, just under a month after Oshii’s announcement, Mitsuhisa Ishikawa from Production I.G hinted at the potential for a new sequel. During the Niigata Animation Film Festival on Saturday, Ishikawa, the co-founder/producer, mentioned that the main hurdle preventing the movie from being made was covering the costs of Oshii’s most recent Ghost in the Shell film, titled Innocence, which had a price tag of approximately 2 billion yen, or around $18 million.

How Much More to Earn A Sequel?

For diehard enthusiasts of the movie “Ghost in the Shell”, a common query might be “How much further funding is required?” Regrettably, despite the passage of 20 years, it remains a distant goal. As reported by Box Office Mojo, the film Innocence generated a global revenue of approximately $9.8 million, with more than $7.8 million coming from Japan alone. A re-release last year added an additional $311,744 to the total, bringing the grand sum to slightly over $10 million.

In Japan, both versions of Oshii’s “Ghost in the Shell” movies were shown recently to commemorate an anniversary, however, even without specific box office figures, a two-week run wouldn’t have made much impact. Despite this, it’s not entirely unexpected because the original “Ghost in the Shell” didn’t rake in significant box office revenue in Japan, but it gained immense popularity globally through home video releases, earning its status as the classic we remember today.

Could Ghost in the Shell 3 Still Happen?

If Ishikawa’s remarks offer any encouraging insight, it’s that there seems to be a definite roadmap for producing “Ghost in the Shell 3”, and there’s genuine enthusiasm surrounding the project. Despite the potential disappointment suggested by box office figures, the series’ history of recurring and thriving should serve as proof that anything can be achieved. Just like the first film’s international success, it might boil down to the fans’ support. Ishikawa succinctly summed it up: “It could very well be the fans who make it happen.

“I want to see [Ghost in the Shell 3] too, so please spread the word about Innocence.”

Enthusiasts of the anime “Ghost in the Shell” typically discuss either the 1995 original or the series “Stand Alone Complex“, which deserve their acclaim for their artistic merit. While the movie “Innocence” is often appreciated by a smaller group within this relatively niche franchise, it’s unfairly underrated in our opinion. However, in recent times, its reputation has been improving. This can be attributed to re-releases as well as increased conversations about the film.

Perhaps the most surreal installment in this series yet, ‘Innocence’ carries an ominous and melancholic ambiance that seems dreamlike. What makes it stand out is that it’s the only title where the Major is not the lead character, allowing Batou to take center stage instead, offering a fresh perspective to the franchise. Despite this shift, its thought-provoking themes remain quintessentially ‘Ghost in the Shell’, as does its groundbreaking visual aesthetic.

Ok, but Should Ghost in the Shell 3 Still Happen?

Since the 2010s, the more recent installments of Ghost in the Shell have been under closer examination. Arise receives accolades for its action sequences, music, and striking visual appeal, however, its narrative often falls short compared to previous entries in terms of depth, mystery, or raw philosophical exploration. Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 boasted a return of director/writer Kenji Kamiyama, but its 3D art style was a challenge, even for such a deeply nostalgic production.

Production I.G, much like other renowned anime studios, has evolved from its former self, which is a common occurrence. While this isn’t necessarily a fatal blow, over-emphasizing nostalgia could potentially be problematic. The FLCL sequels serve as a case in point, where the studio seemed to repeatedly attempt to recapture the same magic that struck earlier, and they were deeply involved in those productions. Some fans on forums even speculate that Ishikawa’s remarks might be a subtle strategy to boost sales.

It appears somewhat blunt, but I think there’s some justifiable pessimism here. Art should have an end, and perhaps the “Ghost in the Shell” by Mamoru Oshii should be left as it is. Some may even argue that the franchise as a whole deserves this treatment, though, speaking as a fan, let’s hold off on making that decision until after Science Saru’s upcoming series. For now, this could be an excellent time to watch “Innocence” and encourage others to do the same. Whether it leads to a sequel or not, it’s never too late to admire a quality film.

Sources: ANN [Link 1][Link 2], Box Office Mojo, Comic Natalie

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2025-03-20 16:05