Rating: 5/5 stars
Director: Katsuhiro Otomo
Runtime: 124 minutes
Studio: Tokyo Movie Shinsha (TMS)
Genres: Cyberpunk, Sci-Fi, Action, Dystopian, Psychological
“Akira” is an iconic 1988 animated film directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, based on his own groundbreaking manga of the same name. This film is often hailed as one of the most influential works of anime and cinema, leaving an indelible mark on not just Japanese animation but on global pop culture as well. “Akira” is widely credited with bringing anime to the West and introducing the world to the potential of animation as a medium for complex, mature storytelling. Its themes of power, corruption, and humanity’s destructive tendencies resonate as much today as they did upon release.
Story & Setting
Set in a dystopian future, Neo-Tokyo in 2019, “Akira” takes place 31 years after a catastrophic explosion destroyed Tokyo, leading to the outbreak of World War III. The city has been rebuilt, but it is plagued by corruption, violent protests, gang warfare, and a government teetering on the edge of collapse. The plot centers around two members of a biker gang: Kaneda, a brash and rebellious leader, and Tetsuo, his childhood friend who struggles with feelings of inadequacy and rage.
When Tetsuo is exposed to an experimental government project that unlocks immense psychic powers within him, the balance of power in Neo-Tokyo begins to shift dramatically. As Tetsuo’s abilities grow uncontrollably, the film explores his descent into madness, culminating in catastrophic destruction and the rebirth of the mysterious being known as Akira—a figure connected to the original explosion that destroyed Tokyo.
“Akira” weaves themes of political unrest, technological hubris, and the human desire to control forces beyond comprehension. It explores existential questions about power and identity through its characters, particularly Tetsuo’s transformation from an insecure outcast into a god-like being. Meanwhile, Kaneda represents the everyman—brash but ultimately well-meaning, trying to navigate the chaos.
Characters
While “Akira” is a visually-driven film with spectacle at the forefront, the characters are still vital to the emotional core of the story:
Kaneda: As the film’s protagonist, Kaneda is a fearless and impulsive biker who often acts without thinking. His loyalty to Tetsuo drives much of his journey, but as Tetsuo becomes more dangerous, Kaneda has to confront the rift between them. His character embodies a blend of heroism and recklessness, making him relatable yet imperfect.
Tetsuo Shima: Tetsuo’s arc is the most compelling in “Akira.” His journey from a bullied, insecure gang member to an all-powerful psychic being is both tragic and terrifying. Tetsuo’s internal turmoil—his inferiority complex, his rage, and his thirst for power—mirrors the larger themes of destruction and rebirth that run through the film. His transformation into a monstrous figure toward the film’s climax is both a literal and metaphorical representation of unchecked power.
Akira: Though not a central character, Akira’s presence looms large over the entire story. Akira represents humanity’s potential for both incredible creation and unimaginable destruction, and the mystery surrounding him drives much of the film’s tension.
Colonel Shikishima: As one of the more morally ambiguous characters, the Colonel is in charge of the government project that gave Tetsuo his powers. He recognizes the dangers but is powerless to stop the military-industrial machine. He serves as a more grounded figure in a world spiraling into chaos.
The supporting characters, including Kei, a member of a resistance group, and the group of espers (children with psychic abilities), add further complexity and texture to the narrative, though their roles are more symbolic than central.
Animation & Art
Perhaps the most striking aspect of “Akira” is its animation, which was revolutionary for its time. The film was produced with an unprecedented level of detail, using over 160,000 hand-drawn cells, giving it an exceptionally fluid and dynamic look. The attention to detail is particularly evident in the intricate cityscapes of Neo-Tokyo, where every building, street, and vehicle feels lived-in and tangible.
The character animation is equally impressive, with fluid, realistic movements that set “Akira” apart from its contemporaries. This commitment to realism enhances the visceral impact of the film’s numerous action sequences. The scenes of motorcycle chases through the neon-lit streets, and Tetsuo’s psychic rampages, are nothing short of iconic.
The design of Neo-Tokyo—its bright neon lights, crumbling infrastructure, and towering skyscrapers—has become a blueprint for cyberpunk aesthetics in film, anime, and video games alike. The dystopian atmosphere is oppressive yet strangely beautiful, with the art style perfectly capturing the tension between the city’s futuristic advancements and its decaying soul.
Soundtrack & Sound Design
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Geinoh Yamashirogumi, is a crucial part of the immersive experience of “Akira.” The score combines traditional Japanese music with haunting, experimental sounds and synthesizers. The use of taiko drums, chanting, and eerie, otherworldly tones complements the film’s themes of chaos and otherworldly power. The music builds tension throughout the film and enhances its most intense scenes, especially during Tetsuo’s transformation and the final apocalyptic sequences.
The sound design itself is equally impactful, from the roar of motorcycles to the devastating sounds of destruction as Tetsuo’s powers spiral out of control. The combination of music and sound effects creates an overwhelming sense of both awe and dread.
Themes & Social Commentary
“Akira” tackles heavy themes that resonate even more in today’s world:
The Dangers of Technological Advancement: At its core, “Akira” is a warning about humanity’s attempt to control forces it doesn’t fully understand, whether they be nuclear power, psychic abilities, or advanced technology. The parallels to real-world concerns—such as nuclear proliferation, biological experimentation, and government surveillance—are impossible to ignore.
Political Unrest and Corruption: Neo-Tokyo is a reflection of societal decay, with protests, government overreach, and violent repression all being common in the film. The ruling powers try to suppress revolution, but the film suggests that such control only breeds further chaos and destruction.
Power and Identity: Tetsuo’s transformation serves as a metaphor for the corrupting influence of power. His desire to prove himself, combined with newfound abilities, turns him into a monster, representing the danger of unchecked ambition. The psychic powers in “Akira” are not just tools of destruction—they also represent the potential for growth and evolution, depending on how they are used.
Destruction and Rebirth: At the heart of “Akira” is the idea that destruction is necessary for rebirth. The ending, in which Tetsuo evolves into a new form of life, and the city is once again obliterated, speaks to the cyclical nature of existence.
Criticism
One common criticism of “Akira” is its dense and sometimes confusing narrative, especially for viewers unfamiliar with the original manga. The film condenses a massive, multi-volume story into just over two hours, leaving certain subplots and characters underdeveloped. However, even with this narrative compression, the core themes and emotional beats still resonate deeply. Some might find the pacing uneven, particularly in the third act, as the philosophical and existential elements come to the forefront.
Final Thoughts
“Akira” is a landmark film not only in anime but in the broader history of cinema. Its influence can be seen in everything from “The Matrix” to “Stranger Things” to “Cyberpunk 2077.” The film’s combination of mind-bending visuals, deep thematic exploration, and pulse-pounding action make it an unforgettable experience that remains relevant decades after its release. Though it can be overwhelming or confusing for first-time viewers, the sheer scope and ambition of the film make it a masterpiece that demands multiple viewings to fully appreciate.
Final Rating: 5/5
