: Otomo is partnering with Sunrise Inc. to produce a new Akira anime series. Unlike the 1988 movie, which condensed the 2,000-page manga into two hours, this new project is expected to cover the entire story of the manga more faithfully.
: A new manga titled Akira Failing in Love by Shinta Harekawa is scheduled for release in Spring 2026 .
: The rights have reverted to Kodansha , and several other Hollywood studios and producers are reportedly lining up to acquire the rights for a fresh attempt at a live-action adaptation. 4. New Music Releases (Akira Arasawa) akirakamiwo new
: Alongside the Akira expansion, Otomo is directing a new sci-fi feature film titled Orbital Era , set on a space colony under construction. 3. Live-Action Film Rights Update
The most significant "new" updates in this space for 2026 involve major theatrical re-releases and long-awaited production news for the Akira anime universe. 1. The 2026 Theatrical and IMAX Resurgence : Otomo is partnering with Sunrise Inc
: The duo Akira Himekawa (known for The Legend of Zelda manga) continues to work on various projects under their established pen names.
: As of 2026, reports indicate that Warner Bros. Discovery has lost the film rights to Akira after more than 20 years in "development hell". : A new manga titled Akira Failing in
: The film recently saw a major televised broadcast on NHK E-Tele in Japan in early 2026, signaling a renewed push for the franchise. 2. New Anime Projects in Development
After decades of cult status, the original 1988 Akira film is seeing a massive global revival.
The long-stalled live-action Akira movie has hit another roadblock.