Neo-Tokyo is about to E.X.P.L.O.D.E.

Next year's Olympic Games in Beijing won't be quite as explosive as Neo-Tokyo's futuristic Games. From the title character's astonishing powers to Tetsuo's astonishing rage, Akira represents a truly revolutionary advance in anime, not to mention some prescient observations about the unchecked ruthlessness of government.

A ground-breaking anime film, Akira was one of the first displays of truly excellent animation. Adapted from Katsuhiro Otomo's manga series (also called Akira), the movie follows both delinquents and highly advanced characters as they rush to save mankind from itself. While we may not be zipping around on amazing robo-bikes like Tetsuo and co., the theme of protecting ourselves from the power-hungry is more relevant today than ever before, and translates across cultures and genres.

Tomorrow's showing of Akira, sponsored by the Austin Film Society, is sold out--but last-minute tickets may be available if you're willing to chance it. Show up by 9:30 for a chance to watch gorgeously illustrated destruction.

Akira
Part of Austin Film Society's Other Minds, Other Worlds series
Tuesday, July 24
Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar
9:45pm, $4 / Free for AFS members, Sold Out
[Info]