Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2012

Manga artist Katsuhiro Otomo debuted four decades ago. But, say the curators at 3331 Arts Chiyoda, the Akira creator’s influence is so great, “‘pre-Otomo and post-Otomo’ came to designate a turning point in manga history.” Otomo’s post-apocalyptic cyberpunk esthetic launched a worldwide anime boom that continues to reverberate around the planet, with a live action Hollywood remake of the original anime version currently in the making. This show follows Otomo from his emergence through to the present in the first full-scale display of his original drawings. Advance reservations required.

3331 Arts Chiyoda, until May 30 (listing).