Successful in both Japan and the West, Akira had a huge impact on the international growth in popularity of manga and anime. Closely analysing the film and its key themes, Colin O'Dell and Michelle Le Blanc assess its historical importance, its impact on the Western perception of anime, and its influence on science fiction cinema.

Colin Odell and Michelle Le Blanc are writers, broadcasters and film critics. They are the co-authors of Horro Films and Anime, amongst other titles, and editors of Kamera, the online film salon.