Akira
Katsuhiro Otomo's 1988 anime, "Akira," brought Japanese animation to a wider audience. The film is often called a landmark for its complex, mind-blowing story, aesthetic style and visual power. The story focuses on an alternate version of history, where the Japanese government's experiments with ESP lead to an apocalyptic World War III. The world of "Akira" takes place after the dust is settled and Neo Tokyo strives to create order in a burgeoning new society. The streets are controlled by vicious biker gangs, religious fanatics, and resistance fighters hell bent on bringing down the rigid, militaristic government of Neo Tokyo. The main protagonists are a gang of bikers, consisting primarily of the leader, Kaneda, and his "younger brother" of sorts, Tetsuo. During a secretive mission of the government's, however, Tetsuo is unwillingly given terrible psionic powers that warp his mind and make him extremely dangerous to the new society.
The story of "Akira" is far too complex to fully delve into with detail. The plot is ultimately linear as it connects at the end. However, there are many angles that the film explores as the new society nears its seemingly inevitable destruction at the hands of the mysterious power of Akira. This aspect of the film is what makes "Akira" somewhat difficult to understand at first. Multiple viewings are required to cement the film's many subplots. This is both a burden and a blessing to the film, as it may turn those who aren't willing to invest some time into the film.
The incredible visual component is perhaps an easier aspect of the film to appreciate. The city of New Tokyo is both sleek and futuristic looking, as well as dark and industrial. Only the boldest characters in the film dare venture to the derelict ruins of Old Tokyo that surround the new city. When the biker gangs race off into a fight or some other troublesome activity, streaks of red and yellow trace their every move. The dream sequences that haunt Tetsuo after he receives his new powers are some of the most visually incredible of any film, animated or live-action.
"Akira" is amazing because it utilized the cartoon format to illustrate Otomo's imaginary world with such haunting and familiar style. The story simply would not function correctly in a live-action setting. While it takes a few viewings to fully understand what exactly is happening, "Akira" is simply stunning for the power of its imagery and rich storytelling.