Here’s our first look at Scarlett Johansson as the Major in ‘Ghost In The Shell’

For a while now, we have known that Scarlet Johansson was taking the lead role in the live-adaptation of Ghost in the Shell. Recently, Paramount Pictures and DreamWords have released a slew of new information, as well as the first look at Johansson in the role (as seen above).

It has been reported that Michael Pitt, best known for his roles in Boardwalk Empire and Hannibal, will appear in the film as the 'Laughing Man' – the main villain. Famed Japanese director and performer, Kitano Takeshi, will also be in the film as Section 9 chief Arakami Dasiuke.

It should be noted that The Laughing Man villain isn't actually from the proper Ghost in the Shell series but is from the spin-off series, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex. In addition to that, character names from the manga/anime might be changed in the live-action film.

Along with the image, the studio released a press release with the following description of the film and statement.:

Based on the internationally-acclaimed sci-fi property, “GHOST IN THE SHELL” follows the Major, a special ops, one-of-a-kind human-cyborg hybrid, who leads the elite task force Section 9. Devoted to stopping the most dangerous criminals and extremists, Section 9 is faced with an enemy whose singular goal is to wipe out Hanka Robotic’s advancements in cyber technology.

“We are so pleased to be in Wellington to shoot ‘GHOST IN THE SHELL,’” said producers Avi Arad, Ari Arad, Michael Costigan and Jeffrey Silver. “The city boasts state-of-the-art production facilities and a rich urban landscape that make it an ideal setting for a sci-fi action film. The crew-base in New Zealand working on the film is first class, and working with Sir Richard Taylor and the team at Weta Workshop is inspirational on every level. The people of New Zealand have been terrific partners in helping us bring this story and its beloved characters to audiences around the world and we are thankful for their continued hospitality.”

Rupert Sanders, the director behind Snow White and the Huntsman, is set to direct the film. The live-action adaptation of Ghost in the Shell is set to release on March 31, 2017.