So, I watched Akira for the first time last night...

[co2]

i generally despise anime's, but this one was quite awesome and the animation was impressive.

Agreed. I'm not a big fan of Japanese animation for the most part, but I am a proud owner of this film on DVD.

 

[AndThePickles]

I was never a fan of Akira.

I think everything I'd for sure suggest has been mentioned, but in case these series haven't:

Tsukihime
Samurai X (these are actually movies. If you like them, check out the Rurouni Kenshin anime series)
Full Metal Panic

 

[GoblinWhirlwind]

I was never a fan of Akira.

I think everything I'd for sure suggest has been mentioned, but in case these series haven't:

Tsukihime
Samurai X (these are actually movies. If you like them, check out the Rurouni Kenshin anime series)
Full Metal Panic

Same. Back when I first saw it, I remember thinking "That's it..?"

 

[Max J Power]

Afro Samurai

I forgot about that one. Based on the three fifths of it I've seen, I'd recommend it too.

 

[Ugfugly]

Congrats on finally watching a classic. Alot of people have already mentioned my suggestions Fist of North Star and Ninja Scroll.

One that gets mixed reviews but I really loved would be Demon City Shinjuku. Great storyline and action sequences. Definitely get it in Japanese with English subtitles since the dubbing is meh.

Also if you like martial arts I would also suggest Crying Freeman although its a collection and not a movie and not available in the US, it's a great series if you can grab it.