Akira (1988) is a visually stunning and iconic Japanese animated film set in the futuristic metropolis of Neo-Tokyo. The city, rebuilt after a mysterious catastrophe, is rife with political tensions, societal unrest, and crime. At the center of the story is Kaneda, a brash biker gang leader, and his troubled childhood friend Tetsuo. When Tetsuo is involved in a strange accident, he begins to experience changes that draw the attention of shadowy government forces and unravel secrets about the city's dark past. The film weaves a gripping tale of friendship, power, and rebellion, as Kaneda and Tetsuo are swept into a web of intrigue that includes secret experiments, underground resistance groups, and enigmatic figures tied to Neo-Tokyo's reconstruction. As events escalate, the story explores themes of identity, control, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The film’s atmosphere is richly enhanced by its detailed animation and a hauntingly evocative score. Akira is a hallmark of anime and science fiction, celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals and thought-provoking narrative. It delivers an unforgettable cinematic experience, blending intense action with philosophical undertones and a vivid, cyberpunk aesthetic that has influenced countless works in film and animation worldwide.
Akira (1988) is a visually stunning and iconic Japanese animated film set in the futuristic metropolis of Neo-Tokyo. The city, rebuilt after a mysterious catastrophe, is rife with political tensions, societal unrest, and crime. At the center of the story is Kaneda, a brash biker gang leader, and his troubled childhood friend Tetsuo. When Tetsuo is involved in a strange accident, he begins to experience changes that draw the attention of shadowy government forces and unravel secrets about the city's dark past. The film weaves a gripping tale of friendship, power, and rebellion, as Kaneda and Tetsuo are swept into a web of intrigue that includes secret experiments, underground resistance groups, and enigmatic figures tied to Neo-Tokyo's reconstruction. As events escalate, the story explores themes of identity, control, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The film’s atmosphere is richly enhanced by its detailed animation and a hauntingly evocative score. Akira is a hallmark of anime and science fiction, celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals and thought-provoking narrative. It delivers an unforgettable cinematic experience, blending intense action with philosophical undertones and a vivid, cyberpunk aesthetic that has influenced countless works in film and animation worldwide.
Akira (1988) is a visually stunning and iconic Japanese animated film set in the futuristic metropolis of Neo-Tokyo. The city, rebuilt after a mysterious catastrophe, is rife with political tensions, societal unrest, and crime. At the center of the story is Kaneda, a brash biker gang leader, and his troubled childhood friend Tetsuo. When Tetsuo is involved in a strange accident, he begins to experience changes that draw the attention of shadowy government forces and unravel secrets about the city's dark past. The film weaves a gripping tale of friendship, power, and rebellion, as Kaneda and Tetsuo are swept into a web of intrigue that includes secret experiments, underground resistance groups, and enigmatic figures tied to Neo-Tokyo's reconstruction. As events escalate, the story explores themes of identity, control, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The film’s atmosphere is richly enhanced by its detailed animation and a hauntingly evocative score. Akira is a hallmark of anime and science fiction, celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals and thought-provoking narrative. It delivers an unforgettable cinematic experience, blending intense action with philosophical undertones and a vivid, cyberpunk aesthetic that has influenced countless works in film and animation worldwide.
Akira (1988) is a visually stunning and iconic Japanese animated film set in the futuristic metropolis of Neo-Tokyo. The city, rebuilt after a mysterious catastrophe, is rife with political tensions, societal unrest, and crime. At the center of the story is Kaneda, a brash biker gang leader, and his troubled childhood friend Tetsuo. When Tetsuo is involved in a strange accident, he begins to experience changes that draw the attention of shadowy government forces and unravel secrets about the city's dark past. The film weaves a gripping tale of friendship, power, and rebellion, as Kaneda and Tetsuo are swept into a web of intrigue that includes secret experiments, underground resistance groups, and enigmatic figures tied to Neo-Tokyo's reconstruction. As events escalate, the story explores themes of identity, control, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The film’s atmosphere is richly enhanced by its detailed animation and a hauntingly evocative score. Akira is a hallmark of anime and science fiction, celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals and thought-provoking narrative. It delivers an unforgettable cinematic experience, blending intense action with philosophical undertones and a vivid, cyberpunk aesthetic that has influenced countless works in film and animation worldwide.
Last updated at 06/18/2026 13:42:01
Akira (4K UHD / Blu-Ray) | Blu-ray | 2022 | Kazuhiro Kando (Voice)
Delivery $8.95
Anime - Akira
Delivery $16.99
Akira [new 4k Uhd Blu-ray] 4k Mastering, Subtitled, 2 Pack
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originally posted on bestbuy.com
If you're familiar with animated movies on 4K disc, you know appreciation will come more from the HDR and WCG. Even with this being my first viewing, it was clear the colors were deeper and more "life-like" than if I had watched it in 1080p or SD. It has a consistently active 5.1 soundtrack as well, which was pleasantly surprising. As a film, I thought it overly long as it ends up becoming relentlessly action based for the climax; still a worthwhile watch, though.
originally posted on jbhifi.com.au
The 4k scan and HDR looks quite good, there is a fair amount of DNR but it hardly gets rid of the micro details and is probs more accurate to the original cels. The bluray included seems to be region B compatible, even though the packaging says region A only.The problem comes with the audio, somehow, something didn't work when converting the audio of the Japanese 5.1 audio track from 192kHz (which is on the bluray) to 48kHz (which is on the 4k bluray), resulting in the centre channel to be very quiet and the surround channel to be as loud as LR. If you are a sub aficionado be warned to not buy this, hopefully Funimation will do a reissue to fix this. If you don't have a 5.1 setup this may be less severe to you but the downmix to stereo will be worse that if you ... MoreThe 4k scan and HDR looks quite good, there is a fair amount of DNR but it hardly gets rid of the micro details and is probs more accurate to the original cels. The bluray included seems to be region B compatible, even though the packaging says region A only.The problem comes with the audio, somehow, something didn't work when converting the audio of the Japanese 5.1 audio track from 192kHz (which is on the bluray) to 48kHz (which is on the 4k bluray), resulting in the centre channel to be very quiet and the surround channel to be as loud as LR. If you are a sub aficionado be warned to not buy this, hopefully Funimation will do a reissue to fix this. If you don't have a 5.1 setup this may be less severe to you but the downmix to stereo will be worse that if you watched the bluray. I didn't check the english tracks to see if that is an problem, but from reading online ,I don't believe it is.
originally posted on bestbuy.com
An anime classic that looks great in 4K. Now, keep in mind that this is a traditionally animated film from the 80s. So, the intent here seemed to retain the original cell animation with HDR emphasizing the neon lights and effects, but generally, this presents the film as intended. It seems to strike the right balance. The detail you can see in the backgrounds is amazing. GHOST IN THE SHELL is another 4K release that I think looks great, but I think that film looks even better with the 4K treatment. Still, if you're an Akira fan, this is a great disc to add to your collection.There is no slipcover on this release, which surprised me. You get the 4K disc with the 2011 English 5.1, the 1988 English 5.1 and the Japanese 5.1. No special features.The Blu-ray is ... MoreAn anime classic that looks great in 4K. Now, keep in mind that this is a traditionally animated film from the 80s. So, the intent here seemed to retain the original cell animation with HDR emphasizing the neon lights and effects, but generally, this presents the film as intended. It seems to strike the right balance. The detail you can see in the backgrounds is amazing. GHOST IN THE SHELL is another 4K release that I think looks great, but I think that film looks even better with the 4K treatment. Still, if you're an Akira fan, this is a great disc to add to your collection.There is no slipcover on this release, which surprised me. You get the 4K disc with the 2011 English 5.1, the 1988 English 5.1 and the Japanese 5.1. No special features.The Blu-ray is included and no special features are listed on the package. My understanding is that several of the features from the 25th anniversary set are not carried over, but I have yet to verify that myself.
| Release date Australia | April 7th, 2022 |
| Movie Format | 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray |
| Blu-ray Region | Region B |
| Director | Katsuhiro Otomo |
| Language | English, Japanese |
Akira (4K UHD / Blu-Ray) | Blu-ray | 2022 | Kazuhiro Kando (Voice)
Delivery $8.95
Anime - Akira
Delivery $16.99
Akira [new 4k Uhd Blu-ray] 4k Mastering, Subtitled, 2 Pack
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
If you're familiar with animated movies on 4K disc, you know appreciation will come more from the HDR and WCG. Even with this being my first viewing, it was clear the colors were deeper and more "life-like" than if I had watched it in 1080p or SD. It has a consistently active 5.1 soundtrack as well, which was pleasantly surprising. As a film, I thought it overly long as it ends up becoming relentlessly action based for the climax; still a worthwhile watch, though.
The 4k scan and HDR looks quite good, there is a fair amount of DNR but it hardly gets rid of the micro details and is probs more accurate to the original cels. The bluray included seems to be region B compatible, even though the packaging says region A only.The problem comes with the audio, somehow, something didn't work when converting the audio of the Japanese 5.1 audio track from 192kHz (which is on the bluray) to 48kHz (which is on the 4k bluray), resulting in the centre channel to be very quiet and the surround channel to be as loud as LR. If you are a sub aficionado be warned to not buy this, hopefully Funimation will do a reissue to fix this. If you don't have a 5.1 setup this may be less severe to you but the downmix to stereo will be worse that if you ... MoreThe 4k scan and HDR looks quite good, there is a fair amount of DNR but it hardly gets rid of the micro details and is probs more accurate to the original cels. The bluray included seems to be region B compatible, even though the packaging says region A only.The problem comes with the audio, somehow, something didn't work when converting the audio of the Japanese 5.1 audio track from 192kHz (which is on the bluray) to 48kHz (which is on the 4k bluray), resulting in the centre channel to be very quiet and the surround channel to be as loud as LR. If you are a sub aficionado be warned to not buy this, hopefully Funimation will do a reissue to fix this. If you don't have a 5.1 setup this may be less severe to you but the downmix to stereo will be worse that if you watched the bluray. I didn't check the english tracks to see if that is an problem, but from reading online ,I don't believe it is.
An anime classic that looks great in 4K. Now, keep in mind that this is a traditionally animated film from the 80s. So, the intent here seemed to retain the original cell animation with HDR emphasizing the neon lights and effects, but generally, this presents the film as intended. It seems to strike the right balance. The detail you can see in the backgrounds is amazing. GHOST IN THE SHELL is another 4K release that I think looks great, but I think that film looks even better with the 4K treatment. Still, if you're an Akira fan, this is a great disc to add to your collection.There is no slipcover on this release, which surprised me. You get the 4K disc with the 2011 English 5.1, the 1988 English 5.1 and the Japanese 5.1. No special features.The Blu-ray is ... MoreAn anime classic that looks great in 4K. Now, keep in mind that this is a traditionally animated film from the 80s. So, the intent here seemed to retain the original cell animation with HDR emphasizing the neon lights and effects, but generally, this presents the film as intended. It seems to strike the right balance. The detail you can see in the backgrounds is amazing. GHOST IN THE SHELL is another 4K release that I think looks great, but I think that film looks even better with the 4K treatment. Still, if you're an Akira fan, this is a great disc to add to your collection.There is no slipcover on this release, which surprised me. You get the 4K disc with the 2011 English 5.1, the 1988 English 5.1 and the Japanese 5.1. No special features.The Blu-ray is included and no special features are listed on the package. My understanding is that several of the features from the 25th anniversary set are not carried over, but I have yet to verify that myself.
My favorite part is when they scream each other’s names at the end. KANEDA! TETSUO! KANEDA! TETSUO! KANEDA! TETSUO! ..ha! Gets me every time.
The 4K presentation makes Akira look better than ever before. The sound is better than the previous release. However, I’ve not heard a better presentation than the Japanese Hypersonic version from the 2009 release. If you’ve never heard that version, then the mix with this 4K one may sound better to you than the prior Blu-ray releases. Either way, it’s a great version of Akira.
The video quality is fairly good. HDR renders the colours very nicely, but DNR cleanses the texture a bit too much for my liking. No major loss of detail though as this is hand-drawn animation, DNR just makes this film more closely resemble digital works than celluloid.Audio is where I find myself hugely disappointed though. The English tracks are fine, but the Japanese track (my preferred way to watch the film) is downright unacceptable. The standard Blu-ray contains a monstrous 192khz track with lovely mixing and dynamics. Comparatively, the 4K has a 48khz track. This in itself shouldn't cause any loss in perceptible detail, but it indicates a new encode rather than a repurposed mix. Dialogue is hushed to the point of near unintelligibility, music is ... MoreThe video quality is fairly good. HDR renders the colours very nicely, but DNR cleanses the texture a bit too much for my liking. No major loss of detail though as this is hand-drawn animation, DNR just makes this film more closely resemble digital works than celluloid.Audio is where I find myself hugely disappointed though. The English tracks are fine, but the Japanese track (my preferred way to watch the film) is downright unacceptable. The standard Blu-ray contains a monstrous 192khz track with lovely mixing and dynamics. Comparatively, the 4K has a 48khz track. This in itself shouldn't cause any loss in perceptible detail, but it indicates a new encode rather than a repurposed mix. Dialogue is hushed to the point of near unintelligibility, music is simultaneously louder and more compressed, subwoofer response is far less forceful and on top of all of that, there seem to be PHASE issues??? I have no idea who hit the render button on this track, but they clearly didn't give it the attention it deserved.On one hand, you can make the argument that this is the best the movie has ever looked. I don't prefer DNR, but I can most certainly acknowledge the lovely colours on display. But I simply cannot recommend this disc to anyone intending on listening to the Japanese track, since I at least find it almost unwatchable. Buy the 25th-anniversary disc instead.
Great title thst set the standard for storytelling and imagination of modern anime. Unfortunately due to the hand drawn nature may take a kionumental effort to cleanly translate this to 4k+. Still upsaclared fairly well, but you can see thr grain in the details. Inwould still get this on a modern tv, simply because its dtill better pixel for puxel than the original upscaled, but its not perfect. Audio is 2.0 for some of the original mixes, but 5.1 for others. Me ys werea bit of the okd school style, but navigatable .
Virtually every pseudo intellectuals favorite anime film. Amazing film with some beautiful scenes. Great transfer also. Though I find myself preferring my vhs copy sometimes. Can’t beat scan lines and bad audio.
Amazing film. Want to start off by saying that its amazing. As for the actual quality of the remaster it looks really great! I don’t have HDR but even then the colors were bright and vibrant! Animation was really amazing and smooth. Would love to look for more like it. This was an excellent start for my 4K anime collection.
Kaneda, Tetsuo, Akira. Wow those names just resonate throughout this complex and compelling film. Flawless transfer to 4k of an 80s print with some of the best hand drawn animation you will ever see. I haven't compared it side by side with my Blu Ray but, it does seem extraordinarily crisp with great black levels. If you even remotely like anime (or Heavy Metal or Blade Runner for that matter) and haven't seen this, pick it up with confidence. I also like the audio track quite well here and as before the English dub actually shines. You'll need it in order not to read and miss all the jump cuts, visual detail and richness of this work of art. Which on the first time through can be disorienting. Enjoy!
| Release date Australia | April 7th, 2022 |
| Movie Format | 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray |
| Blu-ray Region | Region B |
| Director | Katsuhiro Otomo |
| Language | English, Japanese |
