Akira is a landmark science fiction anime film directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, based on his own manga of the same name. Set in a dystopian 2019 Tokyo, it follows the story of Kaneda and Tetsuo, members of a biker gang, whose lives are forever changed by a secret government project and psychic abilities. Known for its stunning animation and complex narrative, Akira has been influential in popularizing anime and Japanese pop culture worldwide.