Takes two watchings to understand, but is worth it.

Rating: Null/10 (5 February 1999)

There seem to be two main sides to this argument. One side argues that this is the greatest Anime ever, on the basis of it's outstanding visuals and intricate storyline. The other side says it's a load of things unpleasant, and usually emphasise less the violence (of which there is plenty, no one disputes that.) and more the lack of a storyline.
First, let me dispel that myth. There is an intricate, deep and powerful storyline here. It touches on the nature of religion (in much the same way as Monty Pythons 'Life of Brian' did, funnily enough) whilst also ruminating on the worth of a science that cannot hold back. It has characters who are genuinely deep, (especially the Colonel.) something which most people neglect to mention. One of it's main arguments is that all debts, good and bad, will eventually be repaid.
But lets also face it. It's confusing. The first time it's watched, nothing makes any sense, the government cover-up plot is too confusing for words and the cult is an absolute mystery. Akira (the character) is lost within the utter chop and slice manner of the movie. There are simply too many scenes to keep a track of.
But watch it a second time, and it will all make sense. You to work out all the pieces, make the puzzle fit together. And you discover a film that is far deeper than most films out there. For an example, watch "Deep Impact", another apolyptic style film, and see which makes the more profound statements. On a first viewing, Deep Impact is more accessible. But on the second, Akira unlocks it's hidden secrets. Akira is all about that second viewing.
And now to dismiss another myth. Akira is not the greatest Anime ever and never has been. Golgo 13: The Professional, held then and still holds now the honor of greatest Anime.