The Akira franchise, created by Katsuhiro Otomo, is a landmark in both manga and anime that has significantly influenced the cyberpunk genre and pop culture worldwide. The story is set in a dystopian future in Neo-Tokyo, a city rebuilt after being destroyed by a mysterious explosion. The narrative follows two childhood friends, Shotaro Kaneda and Tetsuo Shima, who are part of a biker gang. Their lives are drastically altered when Tetsuo develops immense psychic powers after an encounter with a government experiment involving children with similar abilities. As Tetsuo's powers grow, he becomes unstable and increasingly dangerous, threatening the city and its inhabitants. The central themes of the series include government corruption, the impact of power, and the nature of human consciousness, explored through a complex plot that intertwines political intrigue, social unrest, and apocalyptic visions.

Originally serialized as a manga from 1982 to 1990, Akira was later adapted into an animated film in 1988, directed by Otomo himself. The manga consists of six volumes, each expanding upon the rich narrative and character development, while the film condenses the story, focusing on key events and characters. Both the manga and the film are acclaimed for their detailed artwork, dynamic action sequences, and philosophical depth. Akira has left an indelible mark on global pop culture, inspiring countless works in animation, film, music, and video games. Its influence is evident in popular franchises such as The Matrix, Stranger Things, and Ghost in the Shell, among others. Additionally, the iconic "Akira slide" scene from the film has been widely imitated and referenced in various media, underscoring the franchise's lasting impact and legacy.