So what's so great about the movie that when it came out in America it was heralded as one of the best animations to ever come from Japan? Well, there are a number of reasons why. First off and foremost, the animation is unbelievable. Even when I watch the movie with friends today, they still can't believe how well the movie was animated - and this is before I even tell them the movie is from the 80's. Akira was so far ahead of the animation found in America, that at the time of it's release, it not only shattered our perceptions on what the set level of animation-quality was, it ushered in an entire fanbase that would help dictate the level of animation from then on. Besides that, Akira is full of memorable characters that really round off the most important aspect of Akira: it's story. I don't want to give too much away because I don't want to spoil anything, but Akira is an immensely deep and thought-provoking ride that explores a number of psychological and philosophical themes. The ending is quite infamous for confusing a large number of people, but it's inability to clarify what exactly happened at the end was more than likely done on purpose.
Overall, it's one of the greatest anime movies of all time. If you want an anime that's as kinetic and beautiful as it is deep and though-provoking you don't need to look much further, Akira might be exactly what you're looking for.
