Ghost in the Shell, Stand Alone Complex. Episode 15, Time of the Machines.

Hello, and welcome to my review of the Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex. In episode fifteen, the Tachikoma take centre stage in a story that asks, “What does it mean to be human?” This is not an easy question, and one I ask myself daily. However, it is something we all seek to answer, regardless of the diminishing returns. So,how will artificial intelligence deal with this dilemma? 

“It’s going to be interesting to see how society deals with artificial intelligence, but it will definitely be cool.” —Colin Angle

I love The Terminator movies, but I live in the hope that artificial intelligence will be a little more forgiving than a T-800, but it would be cool. However, I can understand many other comments that I have read who fear the day that the metal overlords come to take our land. Well, someone else’s land, someone who claimed it many centuries ago, long before I was born. The human condition is complex, but this is why I find myself drawn towards the Ghost in the Shell universe. I am simply curious and looking towards others for inspiration and education on such issues. Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes is mentioned in this episode and is a book I have had in my collection for quite some time. Thankfully, I have now found the right moment to read it. The story of Charlie Gordon, a mentally disabled, middle-aged man who takes part in an experimental procedure aimed at increasing intelligence only adds to my curiosity about humanity and its complexities. Anyway, I will save my thoughts for the conclusion, let the story begin . . . 

A ravaged city skyline awaits the section 9 team that arrives by helicopter to this war-torn landscape. The order is to assassinate a target who comes within the sights of one of the agents Seconds later, the death is confirmed. However, this was simply a test, but was it successful? Unfortunately, there was some interference from an A.I. sniper control system that was supposed to improve the situation. The Major will attend the debriefing session and discuss the prototype A.I. system and the difficulties it created. Inside Section 9 headquarters, other prying eyes are also interested in the device and want to link with it. The Tachikomas use a self-reference paradox to lure the device away from its guardian. One Tachkoma instantly feels remorse for the A.I. system, knowing it has no technology to communicate with others. The A.I. unit could be stressed out and knows it will be sent back to the lab for further testing or scrapped. Alternatively, could the same fate await the Tachikomas as the Major begins to find fault with them as well? They can no longer sit idly, as they have so much to see and learn. Seeing Nicky again would be nice. But which one of the robots met her first? 

The discussions are interrupted by Batou, who takes one of the Tachikomas to help with target practice. However, the remaining units begin to wonder why that certain Tachikoma was picked. The units have a shared experience, or is it because that unit was given natural oil? On the firing range, Batou orders the agents to cut loose and open fire. The Tachikoma unit asks Batou about the sniper system and what will happen to it. Batou says it will be passed on this time. They can’t afford to take a risk on unknown technology. The Tachikoma wonders if that’s what will happen to them eventually. The way the Major has been looking at them lately is kind of scary. Batou thinks they are doing a great job, but she has noticed something they have acquired lately, individuality. However, the basis of their design is digital, so they will never have a ghost. Batou has a ghost and could die, which is lucky, according to the Tachikoma. Batou advises the unit to concentrate on his job. Unfortunately, the advice is useless and the discussions about life and death between the Tachikomas continue. However, if they don’t want the Major to learn their secret, they need to act like robots, and nothing more. 

Later, the Major asks Batou to meet him in a magnetically sealed room for privacy concerns. However, they are not alone. A cloaked Tachikoma is among them, but Batou has to pretend he hasn’t noticed. The Major explains to Batou that the Tachikomas have developed too quickly, but her lips are saying something else. She is talking by mind with Batou and is concerned that the technology within the units as a weapon could be lethal. Reading the Major’s lips, the Tachikoma believe they are in the clear and Mr Batou is in trouble, not them. Unfortunately, Batou is ordered to disarm the Tachikomas. He has no luxury of choosing, the units will be sent back to the lab for testing.

Conclusion.

First of all, I would like to say that I now understand why people love Tachikomas so much. This episode was a great way to introduce the early stages of artificial intelligence that is stepping beyond its initial capabilities while giving you a glimpse into this world and the complications of who and what can be classed as sentient. The nature of the Tachikoma is childlike and a reminder of the actual value of life, and it is a joy to watch. Incidentally, they also remind me of one of my favourite characters from Twin Peaks, Lucy Moran Kimmy Robertson. Lucy has that childish charm to her character and she takes pleasure in the small things in life, but don’t be fooled, she is also intelligent and super observant in many ways. Never judge a book by its cover springs to mind.

This episode has nothing and everything in between and is a reminder that the storytelling is always my favourite ingredient of any show. However, it also feels like a taste of things to come. I know there is a deeper meaning to this episode. Regarding life, death, and the existence of God. However, it is far more important to me to understand how I feel about it. Life can be complex but it can also be pretty simple, and what I can learn about myself and others is far more valuable to me. I guess my final observation of the show involves the Major. It is easy to believe that she has some personal issues with the Tachikomas, given her current situation in life. But she tells Batou about the dangers of this technology if it falls into the wrong hands. In an instant, I am reminded of my own words again, books and covers.

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