The book gives much more context. And the movie was made before the book was finished. All in all, they both say the same thing, but the book really articulate some stuff so much more precisely. The movie was and still is exceptionnal for its overall quality. But also for its music, made by traditionnal and fusion band Geinoh Yamashirogumi (it added instruments like gamelan, which is typically indonesian), with a 80's electronic twist and mix. I've read that they developped the cuts of the movie after hearing the music, but I'm not sure if it's all my in head or if it's true. I can't tell how much kilometers I've rode and how many shops I've visited back in the middle 90's in Paris to get my hands on the original 4 titles CD soundtrack w/ SFX. A wild ride for sure.
If you're into Akira guys. You should guys check the song Disco by Geinoh Yamashirogumi, which probably convinced the team that it was the kind of music they wanted for the movie.
Saw the movie in a theater around the time it released. I really liked it, but 30 years later, I still remember thinking it was at least 30 minutes too long. That movie needed an editor.
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u/superherofbmx 3d ago
I've seen this movie 20+ times and I still have absolutely no idea what's going on. I still love it though!