Katsuhiro Otomo’s 1988 animated masterpiece, Akira, is making a return to cinemas worldwide, in a pristine 4K restoration paired with an immersive IMAX theatrical release. Decades after fundamentally altering the trajectory of animation and cyberpunk cinema, the iconic vision of Neo-Tokyo is set to hit the silver screen with unprecedented clarity and sonic power.
The 4K remastering breathes new life into Otomo’s meticulous, hand-drawn cel animation. Every sprawling cityscape, neon glare, and explosion of energy has been meticulous upgraded for modern high-resolution screens.
Beyond the visual upgrade, the dynamic musical score by Geinoh Yamashirogumi and the film’s sound design have been re-engineered specifically for modern theatrical sound systems. Audiences can experience the re-release in two classic formats:
- Original Japanese Audio with updated English subtitles.
- English Dubbed Version for those seeking classic theatrical nostalgia.
Returning to Dystopian 2019
For new viewers and returning fans alike, Akira remains one of the most compelling narratives in animation history. Set in the sprawling, post-apocalyptic metropolis of 2019 Neo-Tokyo, the story follows Shōtarō Kaneda, the headstrong leader of a youth motorcycle gang. When his quiet childhood friend, Tetsuo Shima, collides with a mysterious runaway in the city’s underbelly, Tetsuo inadvertently awakens terrifying latent telekinetic abilities.
As Tetsuo becomes the focus of a shadowy government weapons program, Kaneda is swept into a high-stakes conspiracy of military secrets, anti-government rebellion, and apocalyptic power, racing against time to save his friend before Tetsuo’s unbridled abilities consume everything in their path.
Watch the Trailer
Get a glimpse of the 4K restoration and large-format audio before heading to the cinema:
Global Release Schedule
The 2026 theatrical event spans major global territories throughout the season:
- North America: A major IMAX rollout across the US and Canada debuted on September 4, 2026, offering moviegoers the largest possible format for the dystopian spectacle.
- Europe & International: Screenings are rolling out across local cinema circuits—including select runs via Pathé in Europe—giving international audiences a rare chance to experience the film in traditional and large-format venues.