Review AKIRA (1988) 💊 The Masterpiece That Redefined Animation and Stands the Test of Time

Welcome to another art post here in the community.

Ah, Akira. If you haven’t watched it yet, stop everything you’re doing and run to see this masterpiece, which has become a classic for me. Released in 1988, this anime is a true milestone in the history of Japanese and global animation.
The story takes place in Neo-Tokyo, a futuristic city built after the destruction of the original Tokyo. We follow the story of Kaneda, leader of a biker gang, and his friend Tetsuo, one of my favorites in the plot, who, after an accident, develops devastating psychic powers. The relationship between the two is complex, full of rivalries and loyalties, reflecting the depth of the characters.

Quality and More Quality

What’s most impressive about Akira is the animation quality for its time. Even after more than three decades, the details are jaw-dropping for fans of this style. The action scenes are fluid, and the depiction of the city is so rich you can almost smell the streets of Neo-Tokyo. The attention to detail is such that every frame could be a work of art on its own. Not to mention the cyberpunk aesthetics for this moment.

The soundtrack is another highlight. With a mix of tribal sounds and synthesizers, it creates a unique atmosphere that perfectly complements the dystopian vibe of the narrative. It’s one of those soundtracks you hear and are immediately transported to the film's universe.

Akira is not just a visual spectacle.
It is also a profound work that explores themes such as the abuse of power, government corruption, and the struggle for identity in a chaotic world. Tetsuo’s transformation from an insecure young man to an almost divine entity raises questions about how far absolute power can corrupt and destroy.

I wonder, if the game CYBERPUNK 2077 had more inspiration and was based on the context of Akira, would it perhaps have a better rating? I mean, this game is practically a joke in some gaming communities.

Confusing Narrative?

Some critics point out that the narrative can be confusing, especially for those unfamiliar with the original manga. There are moments when the story seems to get lost amid so many ideas and symbols. However, this complexity is also part of Akira's charm. It’s a film that demands attention and reflection, rewarding the viewer with a rich and multifaceted experience. In terms of influence, Akira left an undeniable legacy, as its aesthetics and themes have influenced a generation of filmmakers and animators. Series like Stranger Things carry echoes of Katsuhiro Otomo's work. Additionally, Akira helped popularize anime in the West, paving the way for countless other Japanese productions.

Watching this for the first time was more than just passing the time; it was experiencing a piece of animation history and reflecting on some of the themes it presents, like the bomb explosion. It’s a work that challenges, provokes, and above all, enchants. If you’re a fan of animation, science fiction, or simply appreciate a good story, I highly recommend it it’s indispensable.

And if, after watching, you’re left with that classic feeling of:
What did I just watch?, don’t worry Akira is like that, a whirlwind of images and ideas that continue to resonate in your mind long after the credits roll. It’s the kind of film that deserves to be revisited, discussed, and most importantly, appreciated in all its complexity and beauty.

In summary, it’s a masterpiece that transcends time in an impressive way for me. An animation that, even decades after its release, continues to inspire and influence. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of watching it, don’t waste any more time. And if you’ve already seen it, maybe it’s time to revisit it and rediscover the details and nuances that make it so special. After all, works like this aren’t just meant to be watched they’re meant to be lived and eternalized in some way.

AKIRA 1988 Trailer

And you, have you watched Akira? What were your impressions? Leave them in the comments, let’s share thoughts about this incredible work here in the #TheAnimeRealm community.