Akira

Akira is a groundbreaking cyberpunk manga and anime film that has left a lasting impact on science fiction and animation. Originally written and illustrated by Katsuhiro Otomo, the manga was serialized from 1982 to 1990, while the film adaptation, directed by Otomo himself, was released in 1988. Set in a dystopian future Neo-Tokyo, the story follows Kaneda, the leader of a biker gang, as he gets entangled in a government conspiracy involving his childhood friend, Tetsuo, who develops uncontrollable psychic powers. With its stunning hand-drawn animation, intense action sequences, and philosophical themes of power, destruction, and identity, Akira redefined anime for global audiences and remains a cult classic, influencing countless works in film, comics, and video games.