Akira stands as a monumental anime film, celebrated as a classic in the genre. It was groundbreaking in its successful translation into English, allowing Western viewers to immerse themselves in a unique artistic experience. Beyond its commercial success, Akira has significantly impacted popular culture, inspiring countless homages across various media over the past thirty years.
Among its most memorable scenes is the legendary bike slide performed by the protagonist, Shotaro Kaneda. In one iconic moment, Kaneda skillfully executes a slide on his motorcycle, showcasing the thrill of biker gangs featured prominently in the film’s first half. Captured in a single, static shot, this moment transformed Kaneda into an enduring cultural icon. Its influence is evident, as numerous Hollywood productions have since recreated this scene, underscoring Akira’s substantial legacy.
10 Paw Patrol: The Movie
Film Directed by Cal Brunker, Based on the Animated Series Created By Keith Chapman
Among the most beloved children’s series in recent decades is PAW Patrol, starring a tech-savvy character named Ryder who leads six heroic dogs on various rescue missions. Despite targeting a young audience, The PAW Patrol Movie features a humorous nod to the Akira bike slide. In a thrilling bicycle chase, one of the dogs skillfully performs the iconic maneuver, leaning out expertly just as Kaneda did. While the reference may fly over the heads of most young viewers, it serves as a delightful treat for anime fans watching with their kids.
9 Come Over
Music Video by Jorja Smith ft. Popcaan
Jorja Smith’s Come Over, featuring Popcaan, shines not only in its smooth lyrics but also through its futuristic music video. While the song itself does not mention Akira, the visuals pay homage to the classic. In a stunning sequence, Jorja rides a vibrant green, futuristic motorcycle, capturing the essence of the Akira bike slide. With a steady camera emphasizing her lean and leg-jutting maneuver, she mirrors Kaneda’s iconic slide perfectly, adding a visually compelling layer to the homage.
8 Nope
Original Film by Jordan Peele
Known for his comedic roots, Jordan Peele made a remarkable transition into the realm of horror films. In his cinematic piece Nope, Peele references anime with a thrilling motorcycle scene. One of the characters, Em, executes a masterful slide reminiscent of the Akira bike slide, kicking up dust and showcasing Peele’s admiration for anime through this cinematic homage.
7 Teen Titans & Teen Titans Go!
Animated Series Based on the Comic Characters Created By DC Comics
Teen Titans and Teen Titans Go! are celebrated animated series that feature a group of teenage superheroes tackling various villains. Robin, often seen on a motorcycle, brings the Akira bike slide into the DC universe multiple times. His execution of the slide is effortlessly cool, balancing his identity as a superhero with the homage to the classic film. Even the show’s villains, such as Johnny Rancid, take their turn at this iconic maneuver, emphasizing the pervasive impact of Akira even within children’s programming.
6 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Franchise Created By Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise frequently nods to the Akira bike slide, especially in its animated adaptations. Notably, in the 2003 series, Raphael completes the iconic maneuver while riding his motorcycle. His execution features the same lean and foot braking reminiscent of Kaneda’s slide, linking the two beloved universes in a delightful display of crossover homage.
5 Adventure Time
Original Animated Series Created By Pendelton Ward
In the abstract, imaginative world of Adventure Time, characters often break conventional norms, including Marceline. Known for her adventurous spirit, Marceline humorously performs her rendition of the Akira bike slide—without the aid of a bike. This endearing and hilarious approach demonstrates the show’s creative flair, as she slips on all fours, paralleling Kaneda’s iconic pose in a whimsical twist.
4 X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Film Directed By Gavin Hood, Based on the Character Created By Len Wein & John Romita Sr.
X-Men Origins: Wolverine is an action-packed narrative delving into Wolverine’s past. In an exhilarating chase sequence, a helicopter pursues Wolverine, prompting him to execute a maneuver inspired by the Akira bike slide. Though distinct in execution, the essence remains, as Wolverine utilizes his bike’s momentum in a way that resonates with the original’s intensity.
3 Carmen Sandiego
Animated Series Produced By Netflix, Based on the Video Game Series By Broderbund
In her 2019 animated series, Carmen Sandiego serves as a modern homage to the Akira bike slide. During an exhilarating rooftop chase, Carmen mirrors the essence of Kaneda’s maneuver, executing the slide flawlessly while navigating intricate urban landscapes. This representation showcases the creators’ appreciation for anime, solidifying Carmen’s blend of adventure and iconic references.
2 Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Animated Series Produced By Lucas Films Animation, Based on the Franchise Created By George Lucas
Featuring a thrilling sequence in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi uses a hoverbike to execute a breathtaking bike slide reminiscent of the Akira technique. His maneuver transcends traditional motorcycle stunts, presenting a stunning visual as he drifts gracefully amidst a heated battle. This homage illustrates the vast influence of Akira even within the expansive galaxy of Star Wars.
1 Batman: The Animated Series
Animated Series Produced By Warner Bros. Animation, Based on the Franchise Created By Bill Finger and Bob Kane
In Batman: The Animated Series, Robin showcases his expertise in performing the Akira bike slide, continuing the legacy of this homage. This critically acclaimed series is noted for its storytelling, with Robin executing this iconic maneuver while evading gunfire. His precise technique culminates in sparks flying, drawing on Akira’s spirit of high-stakes action and homage.
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