In the 1980s, a new form of animation was taking the world by storm: anime. While it had been popular in Japan for decades, it was only in the 80s that anime began to gain a foothold in the United States.

At the heart of this movement were a group of fans who had discovered anime through bootleg VHS tapes and fan-subbed translations. These fans, known as otaku, formed tight-knit communities around their love of anime, trading tapes and fanzines and congregating at conventions.

One of the most iconic anime of the 80s was Akira, a sprawling epic set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo. Its stunning visuals and complex storylines captivated audiences around the world, and it remains a touchstone of the genre to this day.

But it wasn’t just the content of anime that drew fans in – it was also the style. With its bold lines, vibrant colors, and expressive characters, anime represented a departure from the more realistic animation styles of the past. It was a bold, exciting new form of art that captivated audiences with its energy and creativity.