AKIRA AKIRA VHS Video International Version Bandai Bandai's VHS "International Version (released in 1993)" of AKIRA is based on the 1988 theatrical release, with English subtitles and stereo sound for international audiences. It differs from the Japanese VHS version in terms of recording time and audio specifications, and features approximately 124 minutes of footage edited for international film festivals. Main Differences and Features Version: "International Version" = version for international film festivals. Audio: Stereo audio (the domestic version at the time may have been mono/stereo mixed; this product is clearly labeled as stereo). Running time: 124 minutes. Manufacturer: Bandai Visual. Video Features: Some animation corrections and English subtitles have been added, anticipating overseas distribution. As a collector's item, it's a VHS for enjoying the subtle differences in video and audio. The main differences in this version are summarized below: 1. Addition of English Subtitles The biggest feature is the display of English subtitles that match the dialogue in the main film, as the master used is for overseas distribution (such as international film festivals). 2. Minor Video Corrections The original 1988 theatrical release had some animation flaws, but the laserdisc (LD) released later and this international version have redrawn or corrected over 200 cuts. The standard video of "AKIRA" that we see now is based on this corrected master. 3. Stereo Audio Based on the theatrical sound (Dolby Surround) at the time of release, it is recorded in stereo audio for easier listening on home video. Summary Item | Content ---|--- Running Time | 124 minutes (same as the standard version) Video | Master with English subtitles and corrected animation Audio | Japanese (stereo) This VHS is a product with a strong collector's item aspect, released in Japan to show "the way it was evaluated overseas" before the era when "subtitle off" became commonplace on DVDs and Blu-rays. Thank you.