'Ghost in the Shell' news, updates and release date: Scarlett Johansson on being 'right' person for role
Though fans excited for the live-action adaptation of the video game "Ghost in the Shell," the film has been receiving some backlash regarding whitewashing.
Since the "Ghost in the Shell" is a Japanese manga series by Masamune Shirow, many were looking forward to a Japanese actress to take on the lead role. However, the lead is expected to be played by Scarlett Johansson, which caused some issues with a lot of the loyal fans.
Many accused the film of whitewashing, as it did not give the role to an Asian actress. Despite this, the producer of the series Steve Paul elaborated that this change will not change a lot about the film. Paul reassured fans that they will still enjoy the installment.
In addition, Johansson was able to shed some light on what it was like to portray a character that had such passionate fan base. She said that it was difficult to take on a character that has inspired a lot of people. Nevertheless, she was determined to follow her own instincts about the character.
She said, "Bringing these pages to life is a kind of challenge. Because you can't rip it off the page, it's totally different. You're playing it as a – it's not really a person, but it's a human brain, it's someone who's having this life experience. Which is very different from just ripping stuff off from the Manga."
With regards to the white-washing, she explained that she does not think she is the perfect person for the role. However, she said that she and the director of the film Rupert Sanders have the same vision for the character.
She said, "I think Rupert and I shared the same vision for the character. So I think early on, having the same conversation, it'll be up to the audience to judge if I'm the right person to play this part, but you know, I do work that I think I can do and be challenged by and have a take on."
