In celebration of the silver anniversary of Masamune Shirow’s original manga, Anchor Bay Entertainment is releasing Ghost in the Shell: 25th Anniversary Edition Blu-ray — a must-have for anime (and, you know, great film in general) fans. Mamoru Oshii’s acclaimed film is set in the year 2029, after World Wars III and IV, when a Japanese-led Asian consortium dominates world affairs. Its authority is maintained by cybernetically enhanced operatives who use their ability to “ghost hack” (download their consciousness) into other machine and human/machine hybrids to tackle hi-tech terrorists and other security threats. Major Motoko Kusanagi and her crack squad are chasing down the shape-shifting Puppet Master — a rogue creation of a rival agency which has attained sentience and seeks political asylum and a physical host.
The 25th Anniversary release features a high definition remaster of the original, unaltered theatrical cut of the film — different from the cut seen on the 2009 BR release which incorporated CG alterations and cut several scenes. [Out September 23]
Also out September 23:
Littlest Pet Shop: Passport to Fashion [Shout! Factory, $14.93] Five globe-trotting, fashion-theme episodes of the spunky Hub Network series, plus Sing Along.
One Piece: Collection 10 [FUNimation, $34.98] Four-disc set comprising the seafaring foibles of the Straw Hat pirates anchored at the unwelcoming city of Water 7. Includes select episode commentary, textless opening and closing songs and trailers.
Panty & Stocking: Complete Series Blu-ray/DVD combo [FUNimation, $39.98] The foul mouthed angels and their afro sporting sidekick Garter Belt wreak havoc between Heaven and Hell in this cult adult toon. The four disc set boasts over a dozen extras including never-before-seen English cast interviews and outtakes.
The Tom and Jerry Show: Frisky Business [Warner, $19.97] Season one, part one of the WB Animation revamp comprising two discs (13 eps.) of cat-and-mouse shenanigans.
Transformers Prime: Ultimate Autobots [Shout!, $9.99] Five installments of Decepticon-busting action perfect for kids who like shiny things and explosions.
X-Men: Days of Future Past Amazon Instant Video [HD $14.99, SD $13.99] Bryan Singer’s time-traveling Marvel flick won’t be on disc until next month, so if you just can’t bear the wait, enjoy this vfx-laden spectacle from the comfort of your tablet, phone, laptop, phablet, laphone, phoblet OR WHATEVER right away!
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