Well there were genetic experiments performed by the military on children which gave them all telekinetic, telepathic and various powers.Akira whose number identification I can't remember was the strongest and gained borderline god powers before vapourising tokyo in the massive white plume you see at the start of the film. There are elements of pseudo science type spiritual and supernatural powers rather than just science, as evident by the fact that they resurrect Akira from some bits of spine in a jar. I presuming you understand the former old child experiments being liberated from the facility, Tetsuo crashing into one and being subjected to the same experiments.
To be honest if you read the Manga it would probably be more thorough with the plot.
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Sat 9 Aug 2008, 23:46,
archived)
To be honest if you read the Manga it would probably be more thorough with the plot.