Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Zeiram

Dune, written by Frank Herbert, is set in a feudal interstellar society where noble houses control planetary fiefs. The story follows Paul Atreides, whose family is tasked with ruling the inhospitable desert planet Arrakis, the sole source of melange, a substance crucial for extending life and enhancing mental abilities. The novel delves into the intricate politics, religion, ecology, and technology of this futuristic world, as various factions vie for control of Arrakis and its valuable spice. Paul, with his unique abilities and training by the Bene Gesserit, becomes a key figure in this struggle and eventually assumes the role of a messianic leader among the native Fremen people.

Akira is set in a post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo, 38 years after World War III. The story revolves around Shotaro Kaneda, the leader of a teenage biker gang, and his friend Tetsuo Shima, who develops powerful telekinetic abilities. The narrative explores themes of political turmoil, social isolation, corruption, and the struggle for power in a dystopian world. Key characters include Kei, a militant revolutionary, Colonel Shikishima, and the enigmatic Akira, a child with immense psychic powers. The series delves into the consequences of scientific experimentation and the catastrophic events that unfold as Tetsuo's powers grow and Akira is awakened.