AKIRA｜Anime

2024.10.11

Introduction of the Author and Animation Director

AKIRA” is a film created by Japanese manga artist Katsuhiro Otomo. Katsuhiro Otomo is known for his unique style that incorporates elements of science fiction and cyberpunk, and is highly acclaimed for his visual beauty and storytelling. The animated film version of “Akira” was directed by Otomo himself in 1988 and revolutionized the world of Japanese animation.

Original Story and Serialization Period

The original “AKIRA” manga was serialized in Weekly Young Magazine from 1982 to 1990. The original work is even more epic and more detailed in its story and worldview than the movie. Otomo’s visuals and storyline were later adapted into a movie that gained a cult following around the world.

Animated Film and Other Media Expansion

The animated film “AKIRA” was released in Japan on July 16, 1988. The film was a breakthrough in terms of animation technology, and its detailed drawings and dynamic action scenes are still talked about among Japanese animation fans and movie enthusiasts. The film has been highly acclaimed around the world and is recognized as one of the most representative works of Japanese animation (Japan Anime), especially by international fans. AKIRA” also continues to influence other media such as video games and novels.

Synopsis

The story is set in Neo-Tokyo in the near future and depicts the fate of a group of young people caught up in a secret experiment by the state. The main character Kaneda and his best friend Tetsuo spend their days running wild as members of a motorcycle gang. However, things change when Tetsuo awakens to a mysterious psychic ability. Kaneda struggles to stop Tetsuo, while at the same time, he is also trying to solve the mystery of a national conspiracy and an unknown entity called AKIRA.

AKIRA | Recommendations

AKIRA uses cell animation, and the hand-drawn backgrounds and movements are extremely detailed. The depiction of the futuristic city of Neo-Tokyo is particularly impressive, and its beautiful imagery continues to captivate audiences today.
The story involves elements of supernatural powers, government intrigue, friendship, and the power of destruction, and questions the horrors of human power and technology; Tetsuo’s transformation is part of a thought-provoking section on the effects of personal power on society, with underlying philosophical themes.
AKIRA” is known as the pioneer of Japanese cyberpunk anime and influenced many later works. Its decadent depiction of a futuristic society and the human conflicts created by the evolution of technology are elements that science fiction fans should not miss.