Only a handful of films can be described as both genre-defining and culture-setting. When it comes to science fiction and dystopian societies, Akira laid the groundwork for countless movies, series and graphic novels to follow. It also changed the view of anime through its theatrical releases across the globe, bringing the then-predominantly Japanese form of media to a worldwide audience. Previously considered a childish cartoon-like form of entertainment, the medium became rightfully respected for the maturity and complexity it carried within its narratives and themes.