A new 35mm film print of Katsuhiro Otomo's groundbreaking animated feature, "Akira," is set to premiere at BFI Southbank in London from August 14-19, as confirmed by Anime Limited. This marks the first time in decades that a fresh 35mm print has been created for the film, meticulously struck from a 4K master, offering cinephiles a rare chance to see the film in its original format. Following its London debut, the print will embark on a tour of select cinemas across the United Kingdom and Ireland for the remainder of the year.
Set against the vibrant, futuristic backdrop of Neo-Tokyo, "Akira" tells the story of Kaneda, the leader of a biker gang, and his friend Tetsuo, whose life takes a dramatic turn after an encounter with a mysterious child, leading him into a secret government project. The British Film Institute recognizes this seminal work as a pivotal piece within the cyberpunk genre. The creation of this new print was a collaborative effort involving The Cinema Printing Company (CPC London) and ORWO Studios, ensuring the film will be screened in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, accompanied by a Japanese stereo soundtrack and English subtitles.
Robbie Duncan, technical manager at Anime Limited, expressed enthusiasm for audiences to experience "Akira" in its authentic form, echoing the original 1988 viewing experience. This initiative follows a highly successful theatrical re-release earlier this year, which saw the 1988 classic, credited with introducing anime to mainstream UK and Irish audiences in 1991, gross over £1 million (.3 million) at the box office. Kerry Kasim, UK and Ireland General Manager for Anime Limited, highlighted the success of their re-release strategy and their excitement in providing a new way for audiences to appreciate this influential film. Anime Limited, established in Glasgow in 2012 and a subsidiary of Toho Global, continues to be a key distributor of Japanese animation across the UK, France, and beyond, with a catalog featuring titles like “Attack on Titan,” “Cowboy Bebop,” and “Your Name.”
The re-introduction of "Akira" to the big screen with a pristine 35mm print is a testament to the enduring power and timeless artistry of this animated masterpiece. It underscores the cultural significance of preserving cinematic heritage and allowing new generations to engage with influential works in their intended glory. This revival celebrates not just a film, but an entire genre, reminding us of the profound impact storytelling, meticulously presented, can have on audiences worldwide.
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