Colonel Shikishima, often referred to simply as “the Colonel,” is the head of the government’s secret project that involves the Espers and the remains of Akira. He is a stern, disciplined military leader who is deeply concerned about the potential dangers posed by psychic powers.
The Colonel is pragmatic, authoritative, and driven by a sense of duty to protect Neo-Tokyo from the destructive forces that psychic powers could unleash. While he is often seen as cold and cruel, particularly with Tetsuo, the Colonel also shows a strong moral compass, seeking to prevent another disaster like the one caused by Akira. His complex character adds a layer of moral ambiguity to the film, as he struggles between his duty and the ethical implications of the government’s actions.
He survives the destruction of Neo-Tokyo and witnesses the city’s ruins, and tries to manage the volatile psychic powers to protect the city. In the manga series, the Colonel later aligns with the resistance to fight against the escalating crisis.
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