The influential and classic cinematic animated masterpiece that is AKIRA will once again be returning to cinemas across the UK, except this time it will be treated to a brand new 35mm print version of the film created from the 4K master.
This new version of the film, which is the first new print version of the film in decades, will premiere at the BFI Southbank in London between 14th and 19th August 2026, before being screened at selected cinemas across the UK throughout the year.
Synopsis: As the leader of a group of young robust delinquents, Kaneda spent his nights tearing through the urban wastes, racing his motorbike against rival groups. One night while riding with his gang, his friend Tetsuo suddenly encounters a strange boy― the product of human experimentation— and is injured in the ensuing crash. Shortly thereafter, a military squadron appears on the scene to take the boy and Tetsuo away to an army research facility. Determined to free Tetsuo from capture, Kaneda sneaks into the army research lab. However, a regimen of extreme experimental procedures has awakened a new power in his friend, and now he is consumed by madness…
The newly produced 35mm print version of the film will allows fans to experience AKIRA like never before, as Anime Limited’s Technical Manager, Robbie Duncan, explains:
“We’re incredibly excited to bring back AKIRA on 35mm. There’s something special about film going through a projector and there’s something special about AKIRA. I can’t wait for audiences to experience both and get a hint of what it was like to see back in 1988. I can’t thank our partners at The Cinema Printing Company (CPC London) and ORWO Studios enough for their expertise and going the extra mile to make AKIRA look as good as it can”.
Since its release AKIRA has had many cinematic releases, including one back in April of this year, so why produce and release a 35mm print now? Well the General Manager for UK & IRE at Anime Limited Kerry Kasim, elaborated further by explaining that it is a result of the success from their past release of the film:
“Since its inception, Anime Limited has worked hard gaining the trust of valued partners to push into new and compelling areas to bring the best experiences to audiences. The success of our recent theatrical re-release has proven our capability to revitalise one of the most influential and iconic films in animation. We were given free reign to create a different way for audiences to experience this film: a brand new 35mm print to tour across the UK & Ireland, and we’re thrilled to be able to present this fantastic way to watch AKIRA in cinemas”.
As it stands this 35mm print version of AKIRA will be available to watch at the BFI Southbank in London between 14th and 19th August 2026. Additional screenings at selected venues will also take place throughout the year, with exact locations to be confirmed but it will most likely be at locations that can screen 35mm films.
4K Cinema Trailer:
