This year marks the 30th anniversary of the theatrical release of "Ghost in the Shell / 攻殻機動隊," adapted from Masamune Shirow's manga and directed by Mamoru Oshii. The story is set in a near future where cyberbrains, connecting the brain to the network, and cybernetic bodies, replacing human limbs with mechanical ones, are commonplace. Within a world reminiscent of the cyberpunk masterpiece "Blade Runner," the film posed a philosophical question: where do human ego and consciousness reside?

 

 

Next, Mori Building's Creative Director Isao Kuwana urged attendees to pay attention to the exhibition's English title: "Ghost *and* Shell," rather than "Ghost *in the* Shell." He explained that this phrasing moves beyond dualism and instead poses a question: in a world where the boundaries between human and machine, reality and virtual, individual and collective are dissolving, where do we perceive the GHOST and the SHELL? He noted that precisely because we now have a female Prime Minister, predating the anime's depicted year of 2029, the exhibition offers special installations to allow visitors to "reconcile the future's destination with present reality."

 

 

 

One of these installations is a three-dimensional database space created by visual artist Shuhei Matsuyama. Visitors can experience the sensation of navigating the net, a key motif in "Ghost in the Shell." "Utilizing the dome-shaped space within TOKYO NODE, we aim to provide an immersive experience, making visitors feel as if they themselves are hackers," Matsuyama explained. He also mentioned that the underlying theme is DIG, allowing each visitor to delve deeper into their favorite characters or themes.

 

 

 

The highlight is an interactive exhibit utilizing the latest AR technology. "The Cyberbrain VISION is an optional content experience, available for an additional fee, functioning like an audio guide. By wearing the Cyberbrain VISION, visitors are temporarily 'cyberized.' Through cyberbrain communication, Tachikomas will provide commentary on carefully selected iconic scenes. This is a must-see for Tachikoma fans. The Cyberbrain VISION aims to give even those unfamiliar with the entire 'Ghost in the Shell' anime series a general understanding of the narrative, and to prompt contemplation on the exhibition's themes: What is the Ghost? What is the Shell?" concluded KDDI's Tetsushi Sunahara.

 

 

 

In an era where the global race for humanoid development intensifies and AI is routinely utilized in business, revisiting "Ghost in the Shell" in light of current technological advancements offers numerous revelations. The location itself, Toranomon Hills Station Tower, known for its strong entertainment focus within the redeveloped Toranomon area, resonates with the series' world, further enhancing the immersive experience.