Not a terrible film, but over-hyped.

Rating: Null/10 (4 March 2001)

For many Americans, Akira was the first piece of anime they had experienced. Like any first time, of course it had magnified impact. However, most folks who have seen a variety of anime start to realize that anime is just like anything else, 90 percent of it is crap. Viewing Akira in this light, I would say that Akira is above average for anime, but not as revolutionary as some have suggested. Like many anime, it was based on a manga series, which had much more depth, and probably a more coherent story. As with any foreign film, you have to be aware that the origin of the film can color your judgement.