Ghost in the Shell, Stand Alone Complex. Episode 16, Chinks in the Armor of the Heart.

Hello, and welcome to my review of the Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex. In episode sixteen, Batou has some emotional issues to take care of while still taking care of business. Not an easy task for a man whose world seems to be falling apart. After watching episode fifteen, I decided I should read Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes. A book read by one of the Tachikomas in that episode, and I am curious to see if it has any clues about what comes next in their story. It is a fascinating read and a great insight into a mind that is pushed beyond its capabilities. However, emotion overshadows intelligence in this episode, and we often know where that can lead. I am also finding myself becoming more attracted to Japanese culture while watching this show. The heritage and nuance of their history is not lost on me, and I hope to learn more about it in the future. In a world of disposable items and memories, authenticity is becoming my number one source of happiness and inspiration in many ways. Let’s get started. 

The Tachikomas are taken away for testing, once they are suspected to be exceeding the parameters of their programming, and Batou looks upset at the decision. Meanwhile, sensitive information has been stolen from a U.S. Naval base, and the battle-hardened operative has been recruited by the Public Security office to go undercover and help infiltrate the spy. Maybe this mission will take his mind away from his troubles, and finding the chance to fight in a makeshift ring with a fighter will ease his anger issues. Unfortunately, his opponent is a Paralympic silver medalist boxer named Pavlo Zaitsev, and after a few close rounds, Batou loses yet another fight. Or maybe not? Pavlo is a fighter whom Batou admires. Unfortunately, he is also the suspect in this case. Later, Pavlo invites Batou to his house to discuss some of the techniques he used during their fight. 

Later, Pavlo asks Batou to meet for a drink to make up for last night’s abrupt ending. Before the two men start the evening, Pavlo spills some whisky and asks Batou to get a cloth to clean up the expensive mess. However, this is a diversion, so he can search Batou’s wallet and check the sincerity of his new friend, but he can’t figure the man out. Another call and another interruption. Pavlo is as busy as someone who works in intelligence! Pavlo is called down to the docks to make the exchange for the data he has stolen. Something is wrong with the files, and an argument forms between the men. That is the least of their problems, as Batou opens fire on the gang and takes them out. Before Batou arrests Pavlo, he wants to know about the prosthetic blind spot. He needs to know if Pavlo is in it for the money, because his life looks pretty good from where Batou is standing. Batou offers to fight Pavlo, and if he loses, he will let him go. Thankfully, Batou wins this one and finally arrests his man. Batou returns to the bar and finds Pavlo’s wife waiting at the door. Batou explains that he is no longer with Pavlo, and she gives him a bottle of the Auzi Mead she tried to serve him at the house. The case is now closed, and Togusa is back at Section 9. Togusa reaches out to Batou but notices something wrong with his friend. Batou drops some cans of natural oil from his locker and smashes the bottle of mead on the floor. Batou finally unleashes his anger on a punching bag in the gym. 

First, I would like to point out that I may have gotten the wrong drink that was served by Pavlo’s wife. I couldn’t understand what she had said, so I just looked up Japanese honey wine. However, I am curious to find out what it is. Chinks in the Armor of the Heart was great title for the episode, but the words and images felt harder to appreciate in this episode as it was the silent moments that made the biggest impact within the story. However, after a second viewing, I began to appreciate Pavlo’s character even more. The problem I face when I look at the characters within this universe is that I always see them as humans first, with the technological enhancements coming later. I am drawn to the human condition, but I need to start focusing more on how the advancements of this society can affect the biological self, and more importantly, the soul. Did Pavlo lose something within himself when he received his enhanced prosthetics?

I suppose that answer is yes, but it looks toward something far greater. I was surprised with the ending, as I thought Batou would have found the answers he was looking for with this case. I now realise this could be the tip of the iceberg. At this point in my journey, I will leave this review with more questions than answers. Technology is designed to solve problems, but can that be said for Pavlo and the Tachikomas? I wonder what Batou will do next, and if these incidents will make him question his loyalty towards the Major and Section 9 and find some understanding and empathy for the laughing Man case? Making a decision sounds like an easy process, but for us humans, that can often prove difficult. There is a lot of consideration that goes into the process, and sometimes answers can be found through illogical emotions. They did get one thing right in the title of this series. It is complex. I sit here now thinking of the implications of such a situation as Batou’s and realise I need to sit with it for a while and then move on to the next episode. I am starting to understand the complications this world could bring, and it isn’t as transparent as I first thought it would be. However, it is rewarding, and I can see why people love it so much. I admit, the closer I creep towards the end of the series, the more bittersweet it is starting to feel. Anyway, I enjoyed the episode immensely, and the writing was so wonderfully executed. I cannot wait to learn what comes next.

Thank you for visiting today, it really is appreciated. If you enjoyed this review, please leave me a like or comment below. Also, if you would like to follow my journey on this site, please subscribe for future posts.

The Ghost in the Shell Anthology.

My Projects.