A.D. 2034. It has been two years since Motoko Kusanagi left Section 9. Togusa is now the new leader of the team, that has considerably increased its appointed personnel. The expanded new Section 9 confronts a rash of complicated incidents, and investigations reveal that an ultra-wizard hacker named the Puppeteer is behind the entire series of events.
In the midst of all, Batou, who was stalking the case on a separate track, encounters Motoko. She goes away after saying, "Stay away from the Solid State Society." Batou is left with a doubt in his mind. Could Motoko be the Puppeteer?
The series of intriguing incidents that Section 9 faces gradually link together almost artistically. Who is the Puppeteer? What will happen to Batou's relationship with Motoko? What is the full truth behind this carefully planned perfect crime? And what will the outcome be? Mysteries surround the Solid State Society…
(Source: Production I.G.)
Review: Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society
Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society, is a thrilling cyberpunk tour-de-force that does justice to the enduring lore of Ghost in the Shell. Set two years after Major Motoko Kusanagi’s departure from Public Security Section 9, the team struggles to manage the cybercrime landscape sans her leadership. The Solid State Society narrative sees Togusa, now the lead of Section 9, grappling with a perplexing case that holds a haunting similarity to past events, bringing the anime full-circle in its complex, cybernated journey.
Simultaneously, Motoko, whose former comrades believe holds the key, exists in an inscrutable state within the Net. The aptly named Solid State Society presents a dense web of AI and human consciousness interaction with new tech like viruses and the concept of ‘dive therapy’. The storyline cloyingly dances around the core themes of identity and meaning, furnished with existential questions, making it a thought-provoking, philosophical treat.
Review
Putting aside pre-constructed notions of what a GitS narrative should be, Solid State Society digs deep. It further extrapolates the ideas of the Stand Alone Complex series and wraps them up in a neatly narrated package. The spectacular feature is the intricately plotted storyline. It successfully manages to hold on to the viewer by perfectly interweaving a convoluted case that aligns with each character’s development.
What blew me away is the animation quality of Solid State Society. Production I.G is no stranger to creating sleek and stylish visuals, and this installment is no exception. It adds incredible depth, making the viewing experience even more delightful. The animation is both fluid and meticulously detailed, giving the anime a sort of vivid realism that only enhances the profound nature of the story.
The sound design manages to outdo even the exceptional animation. Yoko Kanno’s scores perfectly encapsulate the emotional and thematic depth of the scenes. From the eerie silence of the Net to the noisier real world, Kanno’s music gives life to the series in an eerily effective manner. Her soundtrack is possibly the second protagonist alongside the plot itself.
Importantly, the characters are truly the pillars supporting this stunning narrative. Togusa morphs into a toughened leader, no longer the unsure investigator he used to be while the Major’s enigmatic existence provides the much-needed unpredictability. Batou’s guarded concern for the Major and his enduring loyalty to Section 9 only add depth to the character dynamics.
Final Verdict
Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society stands tall as an anime gem that flawlessly interlaces existential queries with a tautly paced narrative. Its political undertones notwithstanding, it uses enthralling sci-fi concepts, backed by visually enthralling animation and a riveting score to satiate the most ardent viewers. If you’re an anime enthusiast, regardless of your orientation to the Ghost in the Shell lore, Solid State Society is a ‘must-stream’ experience that may well leave you pondering the boundaries of cybernetic existence. Now that’s a matrix I can’t recommend enough!
Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex - Solid State Society
8.11 / 10
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Pros
Solid State Society stands out for its exceptional plot intricacies, intricately exploring themes of identity and society's relationship with technology. The series is lauded for its rich and detailed animation, finely-crafted character development and thrilling cyber-punk essence.
Cons
The pace of Solid State Society can feel too rushed at times, resulting in some story elements being poorly explained or outright confusing. Some characters receive little to no development, which may leave fans wanting more depth.
Summary
Dive deep into the mind-bending world of "Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex - Solid State Society", a compelling anime exploring cybernetic intrigue and societal tensions. This review examines the series' intricate plot, compelling character development, and high-quality animation. Learn how this anime successfully merges action, mystery, and philosophical themes, keeping audiences hooked till the end.
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