Akira: (124 min.) From Streamline Pictures, the cyberpunk classic, based on the comic book series by Katsuhiro Otomo.
SYNOPSIS: The Japanese government tries to create living super weapons by genetic manipulation to stimulate psychic powers. Several children are part of the program. A side effect of the genetic engineering gives most of the kids the look of advanced age despite their youth. Something goes wrong and one of the kids, Akira (who doesn't look old) causes a massive explosion which destroys most of Tokyo.
This background info sets the stage for the story proper which is set in Neo-Tokyo; rebuilt from the ashes of the old city. The story mostly revolves around Kaneda, the street punk leader of a teenage biker gang, and Tetsuo, a member of his gang who is one of the psychic children who escaped (Tetsuo doesn't know about this at this point). When Tetsuo's powers start surfacing things get interesting. The power is linked with insanity and leads him to try to free Akira, whom the army has on ice (literally).
Throw in military intrigue and government incompetence and you get an explosive mix. Can Kaneda and Co. save Neo-Tokyo from being destroyed again?
REVIEW: This is one of the classic anime works which fans often use to
silence critics. The animation is spectacular. The story is great; it
moves right along and sweeps you with it. The dubbing is excellent and
most of the voices fit the characters well. This is a must for any true
Anime fan!