Original Title: 新世紀エヴァンゲリオン | Shin Seiki Evangerion | Neon Genesis Evangelion
Release: 1995
Country: Japan
Director: Hideaki Anno
Running Time: 26 Episodes
Cast: Megumi Ogata | Megumi Hayashibara | Yuko Miyamura | Maaya Sakamoto
Written by Miguel Douglas
Published: 11.11.09
Every couple of years, an anime series comes along that makes one rethink an entire genre. Neon Genesis Evangelion fulfills this criterion to the fullest. This series has no doubt reshaped the way anime fans abroad have viewed and interpreted anime as a legitimate art form that rises above the stereotypical outlook on which anime is based upon. From its complex and multi-layered characters, to its intriguing plot involving secret societies, doomsday prophecies, and usage of religious connotations, Evangelion is a series that has been duplicated by many other shows, but never matched.
Perhaps the most compelling aspect in Evangelion is the plot. What starts out as a seemingly standard mecha show soon evolves into a deeply profound and psychologically engaging story that takes a rather intense introspective look into the primary facet of the show, its characters. To witness such substantial development (and some even could argue counter-development) of a shows entire character roster is a feat unto itself. It’s amazing to see these emotionally riveting characters presented in such a realistic light therein creating some of the most realized and embodied characters perhaps ever witnessed in an anime series. The unsuspecting twists within the story are presented in such a way that shock and often times bewilder the viewer, in return creating even more questions than answers. This can be viewed as a very challenging aspect for some viewers, and it’s really dependent on the individual viewer to make their own interpretative analysis of the characters. Viewers who are accustomed to a storyline being happily laid out for them need not apply in watching this show. This is what I consider the gift and the curse of Evangelion as a whole; people will probably either love it or hate based on their own personal viewing preferences.
In consideration of this, there are some areas in the show that might present a challenge for some viewers. For one, the juxtaposition between the first half of the show and the second half is amazingly different. The sheer volume of complexity featured in the latter half is quite a departure from the rather standard first half, which could potentially turn viewers away. This is no doubt due to the rather abruptly chaotic revelations revealed towards the end of the show and the situations we find the characters in. To say that the characters within the show experience hell is a total understatement. I’m talking about characters going through immensely traumatic and emotionally devastating situations in which the viewer is given a front row seat too. The darker second half presents a stark contrast compared to the first, and I would also go as far as to say that some viewers might even become depressed after watching the entirety of the show. The show presents a well crafted and in depth story that should please adult viewers, especially because of its memorable characters and mature story line.
Now onto the animation of the show which was done entirely by Gainax studios and Tatsunoko Productions. Considering this show came out in 1995, and after viewing it multiple times, the animation for the most part is adequate at best. There were many reused scenes throughout the show and it doesn’t help out either when the production team resorts to using still shots throughout a majority of the later episodes. Still, the designs of the Evangelions, angels, characters, and environments are all uniquely done and really do stand out, taking in to consideration the insane amount of merchandise that has been sold from the show. One should also take note of the realistic portrayal of what the future would look like if a catastrophe like Second Impact had occurred on Earth. These qualities make the show seem relatively modern in appearance, rather than presenting the future as a nice and pristine environment like some other shows do.
As for the sound, how can you go wrong with a man like Shiro Sagisu? Great music that really defines the show and Shiro is to Evangelion as John Williams is to Star Wars. Almost every major character gets their own song, except for Gendo because he’s a bastard. The tracks within the show really do stand out and the use of classical orchestrated pieces utilized in the show only amplifies the emotional effect put forth by the actions already displayed on screen, in the end creating a great balance. Great sound overall.
What can I say? Evangelion is perhaps one of the most famous and distinguished anime series ever made, and for good measure. A tremendously introspective storyline with intriguing characters, epic music, and an ending that will have a majority of viewers thinking it over for years to come, one can’t find too many shows that rival this one. Although there are many instances within the show that might put some viewers off, it’s still one of the most original anime series ever to come out, and for that, Neon Genesis Evangelion is an incredibly engaging show.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I found the show to be very good to be average at times. The story and characters were incredibly engaging but the show seemed to have iffy pacing. I love the show LOST which is similar in raising more questions than answers and even then this show just throws them out there and doesn’t quit answer any thing fully. I would of found this refreshing if the the last two episodes didn’t push my limits for abstract thought. The reason for this is that the funding for the show ran out and they scrambled to come up with an ending, which is why I can’t wait to watch the movie “The End of Evangelion” which should tie things up. Overall it’s a pretty good show.
I agree with your statement about the actual technical quality of the show. It wasn’t that great, and was really hit-or-miss throughout its entirety (which is one of the reasons for the Rebuild of Evangelion film tetralogy to come about).
The End of Evangelion should definitely tie some loose ends up for you. I think it’s good to note that the film and last two episodes are complementary of one another.