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Average Critic Score: 76 (4 sources)

• 80
  

  
  New Times (L.A.)  |  Luke Y. Thompson
  

  One of the few unanimously acclaimed classics of Japanese animation. Read Full Review »
• 80
  

  
  The New York Times  |  Elvis Mitchell
  

  Violent as it is on the surface, Akira is tranquil at its core. The story's sanest characters plead for the wise use of mankind's frightening new powers, lending the whole film the feeling of a cautionary tale. Read Full Review »
• 80
  

  
  Washington Post  |  Richard Harrington
  

  The most expensive animated feature ever made in Japan (over 1 billion yen) and it's easily the most impressive, as well. Read Full Review »
• 70
  

  
  Village Voice  |  Michael Atkinson
  

  Some kind of fever-dream masterpiece, easily the most breathtaking and kinetic anime ever made and one of the most eloquent films about atomic afterclap. Read Full Review »