Retro Arcade: Akira: A Timeless Masterpiece that Shaped Anime and Sci-Fi

Salutations, Urban Technophiles!

It's time for our Retro Arcade entry and we're starting off with the gritty, cyber-edged, booming Neo-Tokyo masterpiece that is Akira. In the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, certain works stand as timeless pillars, shaping genres and influencing generations. One such iconic creation is Akira, an anime film that has etched its mark in history. Originally released in 1988, Akira has continued to captivate audiences with its stunning visuals, profound themes, and lasting impact on the anime and sci-fi genres.

My Akira Experience:

Okay, I have to admit. My first full viewing of Akira occurred much, much, much later on in my life. Twenty years later in fact. But, you the avid reader, would have picked up that I said my first 'full viewing' and correctly so. Back in the 90s, I happened across a bootleg copy on VCR that only ever contained the first ten or twelve minutes of Akira. And it was in Japanese with no subtitles. And yes, even those first ten minutes completely blew me away with it's visuals, sound and cyberpunk themes. Fast forward to 2009 and I happened across a DVD copy of Akira at a company DVD sale, bought the 2 disk DVD and watched it that same evening. Needless to say, I was completely blown away. I was already familiar with similar anime of the genre such as Ghost in the Shell, Cowboy Bebop, RoboTech, Bubblegum Crisis and Neon Genesis Evangelion. However, Akira was such a masterpiece of visual animation and storytelling that it ranked higher than most and continues to do so till this day.

Influence and Innovation:

Akira surfaced in a critical juncture of animation's evolution, shattering boundaries with its groundbreaking animation methods and narrative prowess. Guided by Katsuhiro Otomo, the movie's meticulous hand-crafted animation and meticulousness redefined visual storytelling benchmarks in anime. Neo-Tokyo, its portrayal of a dystopian metropolis, evoked awe, while its portrayal of psychic powers' explosive might offered an unprecedented visual spectacle.

Themes Explored:

At its core, Akira delves into themes that strike a chord even decades after its release. The film grapples with the consequences of unchecked power, political corruption, and the darker aspects of human nature. The emergence of psychic abilities in the story serves as a metaphor for the uncontrollable forces that can lead to chaos and destruction when mishandled. It's one of those movies that has remained timeless and is pretty much as relatable today as it was 35 years ago, addressing real-world issues despite being set in a futuristic landscape. The social commentary cuts deeper than tire skid marks on the freeway: The societal divide, government surveillance, and the manipulation of power all mirror contemporary concerns. The film's exploration of individuality and the struggle to define oneself in a complex world adds depth to its characters and resonates with viewers on a personal level.

Legacy and Cultural Impact:

The impact of Akira extends beyond its initial release. Its influence can be seen in countless other works, both in anime and Western media. The cyberpunk genre, characterized by its fusion of futuristic technology and dystopian society, owes much of its popularity to Akira. The film's enduring legacy has led to video games, comic books, and even musical adaptations, solidifying its place in pop culture. As Empire so boldly (and correctly so) boasts: "No Akira, No Matrix, It's That Important"

Why Akira Is a Must-Watch:

Beyond its technical achievements and thematic depth, Akira remains a must-watch due to its ability to engage and challenge audiences. The film invites viewers to contemplate the balance between progress and responsibility, the ethical use of power, and the consequences of blind pursuit of ambition. Its thought-provoking narrative is complemented by stunning visuals animation that continues to impress even in today's digital age. 

Conclusion:

As the world of entertainment evolves, Akira stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and artistic innovation. Its exploration of timeless themes, combined with its influence on subsequent works, cements its status as a groundbreaking masterpiece. Akira isn't just an anime; it's a cultural touchstone that continues to ignite imaginations and spark conversations about the future, the past, and the human condition.

Title: Akira
Director: Katsuhiro Otomo
Release Date: 1988
Genre: Cyberpunk, Sci-Fi, Action
Animation Studio: Tokyo Movie Shinsha
Running Time: Approximately 124 minutes
Language: Japanese (English dubbed versions available)
Music: Geinoh Yamashirogumi
Art Direction: Toshiharu Mizutani
Sound Design: Shoji Yamashiro
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 87%
Life of uZ Score: 9/10