Scarlett Johansson has confirmed she will take the lead role in the live action American remake of classic Japanese anime Ghost in the Shell, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Johansson is likely to play a character based on the cyborg detective, Major Motoko Kusanagi, who plays a key part in the 1995 film and the comic book series it is based on. Kusanagi is team leader of a Japanese counter-terrorism organisation focused on cybercrime in a futuristic world, where a vast electronic network connects and permeates every aspect of life. However, it appears likely the US version will transfer the action to north America.

Three anime films (one made-for-TV), an animated Japanese TV series and three video games have been based on the original Ghost in the Shell comics. However, the new version will be the first English language, Hollywood-produced take.

Johansson was reportedly offered $10m to star in the long-gestating film, which will be directed by Snow White and the Huntsman’s Rupert Sanders from a script by The Reluctant Fundamentalist’s Bill Wheeler, in October. The impressive pay cheque recognises the US actor’s newfound status as an A-list action star following standout turns in Lucy and Marvel Studios’ Avengers series of superhero films.

With its vision of a vast electronic network to which every human can connect, Ghost in the Shell has been credited with influencing Hollywood movies such as The Matrix. The original manga’s depiction of a part-human, part-machine detective who questions her identity also echoes the themes of Ridley Scott’s earlier Blade Runner.