Akira

Akira

Year: 1989

Runtime: 124 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Katsuhiro Ôtomo

ActionSci-FiDramaMysteryThrillerFantasyAnimation

In 1988, a failed psychic experiment leads to a catastrophic event in Tokyo. Thirty years later, biker Kaneda finds himself facing a dangerous government project linked to his friend Tetsuo. Tetsuo's latent psychic abilities are growing uncontrollably, and Kaneda must fight against powerful, corrupt forces to stop him. The escalating conflict culminates in a confrontation at the Tokyo Olympiad, uncovering the dark secrets behind the original experiment and threatening the city's destruction.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Akira yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Akira (1989)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Akira (1989). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

2019

The story takes place in 2019, 31 years after the devastation of Tokyo in 1988. This time period highlights the aftermath of World War III, where societal unrest, unemployment, and the rise of violent gangs become prominent themes. It encapsulates a future where advanced technology coexists with extreme social disorder.

Location

Tokyo, Neo-Tokyo

Tokyo is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture and technological advancements. However, after a catastrophic atomic explosion, it transforms into Neo-Tokyo, a grim and chaotic city plagued by violence and economic despair. In this dystopian setting, society grapples with the fallout of its past while facing an uncertain future.

🏙️ City 💥 Post-Apocalyptic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Main Characters – Akira (1989)

Meet the key characters of Akira (1989), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Kaneda (Mitsuo Iwata)

Kaneda is the charismatic leader of the Capsules biker gang, exuding confidence and a rebellious spirit. He is fiercely loyal to his friends, especially Tetsuo, and is willing to navigate the dangers of Neo-Tokyo to protect them. Kaneda embodies a sense of adventure and defiance as he confronts the chaos around him.

🏍️ Biker 👊 Leader 🤔 Loyal

Tetsuo (Nozomu Sasaki)

Tetsuo is a troubled young man whose latent psychic abilities lead him on a dark journey of self-discovery. After an accident awakens his powers, he struggles with feelings of inadequacy and a thirst for control, which ultimately drives him to madness. His transformation serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of power.

💔 Troubled 💥 Evolving 🤯 Psychokinetic

Kei (Mami Koyama)

Kei is a determined and resourceful young woman, involved in the Resistance against the oppressive government. Her character showcases resilience and empowerment as she navigates the chaos surrounding her. Unwittingly caught in a web of danger and intrigue, she plays a critical role in the unfolding narrative.

🔫 Resistance 💪 Empowered 👩‍🎤 Resourceful

Ryu (Tesshô Genda)

Ryu is a brave and strategic leader within the Resistance, dedicated to opposing the government's oppressive forces. His character represents hope and the fight for justice amid rampant chaos. Ryu's courage and cleverness make him a pivotal figure in the struggle for freedom in Neo-Tokyo.

✊ Leader 👺 Resistance 🗡️ Brave

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Major Themes – Akira (1989)

Explore the central themes of Akira (1989), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💥 Chaos

The theme of chaos permeates throughout the movie, reflecting the violent struggle for power and survival in Neo-Tokyo. As characters navigate through political unrest and gang rivalries, the unpredictability of their circumstances fuels their desperation and conflicts. This chaos serves as a backdrop for the personal turmoil experienced by Tetsuo.

🧠 Power

Power dynamics play a central role in the narrative, particularly through Tetsuo's discovery of his psychic abilities. His struggle for control over his newfound powers manifests as both a personal and societal conflict, raising questions about the moral implications of wielding such immense strength. The quest for power leads to devastating consequences for Tetsuo and the city.

🤝 Friendship

The theme of friendship is explored through Kaneda's unwavering loyalty to Tetsuo, even as their paths diverge. Despite the escalating violence and Tetsuo's transformation, Kaneda remains determined to save his friend from his destructive tendencies. This bond highlights the human connection amid chaos and the struggle to redeem lost relationships.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Unlock the Full Story of Akira

Don't stop at just watching — explore Akira in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Akira is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Akira Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Akira, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Akira Summary

Akira Timeline

Track the full timeline of Akira with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Akira Timeline

More About Akira

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Akira: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Akira

Similar Movies to Akira

Discover movies like Akira that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.