When we talk about anime that left a mark on the history of the industry we must mention Akira. Released in 1988 as it remains one of the most talked-about works among anime and science fiction fans to this day. The film isn't just an ordinary story as it's a visual and musical and intellectual experience that forever changed the face of anime. From the first scene in Neo-Tokyo to the end, the film takes you on a crazy journey through action, dystopia, and politics.
The Story
The story follows Kaneda and his friend Tetsuo two young men living in a post-Tokyo future. Their lives are turned upside down when Tetsuo experiences an accident that gives him superpowers. But instead of being a hero, he begins to become a threat to the entire city. The story talks about power when it gets out of control, and how science and technology can be a double-edged sword.
Akira was ahead of its time in every way especially in animation and graphics. Every shot in the film is expertly drawn and the animation is so smooth that you forget you're watching an old anime. The details in the city, the action scenes and the lighting are all done so expertly that modern films are still learning from it.
This film wasn't just an anime it inspired many films and series both in Japan and Hollywood. If you look at films like The Matrix or Inception you'll find Akira's influences and Even modern anime like Attack on Titan and Ghost in the Shell have borrowed from his style and approach to storytelling.
If you love anime or even films with science fiction and powerful stories Akira should be on your list. It's not just a film it's an artistic experience worth watching, and you'll understand why people are still talking about it more than 30 years after its release.
