Akira was one of the first manga films I ever watched, only a few years ago now; I didn't even know we had it on the shelf! To be perfectly honest I adore the film, despite it being so different from the manga. The plot is so compelling, it just makes this film one of the best I have ever watched. The art is also very good; it is more realistic than a lot of anime and this is one of the reasons why i enjoyed it so much. As for characters, I love how realistic they are in contrast to the plot. Most of them are just normal people who were caught up in everything, trying to save their country or a friend. Overall, Akira is a superb film. I recommend that everyone watch it, to at least experience it. I am forever in debt to my father for suggesting I watch it. It is a MUST SEE!!