Neon Genesis Evangelion Watch Order?
The sequence for the movies is straightforward enough: go through Evangelion 1.0: You Are (Not) Alone Then there was Evangelion 2.0: You Can (Not) Advance, and then Evangelion 3.0: You Can (Not) Redo.
Neon Genesis Evangelion is an anime series that tells the tale of a teenage boy known as Shinji who is enlisted by his father to fly a huge mecha known as the “Evangelion” to protect the earth from mysterious creatures called “Angels.” There are several viewing choices for the show. However, the most common recommendation is to first start with the original 26-episode show, then watch the film.
“End of Evangelion,” which is the series’ finale. Or, they can opt to view the reboot films, “Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone,” “Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance,” and “Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo,” that retell the story with a few minor changes to the plot and characters from 1995–96.
The Original Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996)
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a classic anime series that was initially broadcast in 1995–96. The series follows the adventures of Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy whose dad enlists him to pilot a huge mecha dubbed “Evangelion” to protect the earth from mysterious beings known as “Angels.”
Story
The tale of Neon Genesis Evangelion takes place in a post-apocalyptic future where the human race is in danger from the Angels, who are mysterious creatures that appear to be impervious. To defeat the Angels, the group NERV has created the Evangelion mecha that can only be controlled by selected people known as “Children.”
Shinji Ikari, the protagonist of the show, is one of the children and is enlisted by his father to pilot the unit known as Evangelion 01. Throughout the show, Shinji and his fellow pilots battle the angels and face their mental fears as they attempt to keep the earth from being destroyed.
Themes
One of the major concepts in Neon Genesis Evangelion is the concept of self-discovery and the quest for one’s identity. Every character, such as Shinji, Asuka, and Rei, has to grapple with their self-worth and meaning and confront their fears to navigate the Evangelion efficiently.
The show also explores the concept of human connection and the importance of our relationships. Shinji is a man who grew up in a family without a mother and had a difficult relationship with his dad. He develops bonds with fellow pilots as well as the people he interacts with during his time at NERV. These connections are crucial for his development and growth as an individual.
Characters
The characters in Neon Genesis Evangelion are complex and multi-faceted, each with challenges and motivations. Shinji is an unpopular hero who is forced to play a role he does not want but ultimately accepts. Asuka is an exuberant and confident pilot struggling with her fears and weaknesses. Rei is reserved and quiet, and her dark background is gradually revealed throughout the show.
The other characters on the show, such as Shinji’s father, Gendo, his mentor,Misato,o and the mysterious SEELE organization, all contribute to the overall feeling of mystery and intrigue.
Animation
The animation of Neon Genesis Evangelion is a blend of traditional animation drawn by hand as well as computer-generated images (CGI). The show is renowned for its visual symbolism and surreal imagery, especially in the final episode.
A major and recognizable aspect of the animation in the show is the style of the Evangelion mechas, which are extremely intimidating and unique in appearance. The battles between Evangelion and the Angels are thrilling and action-packed, with an impression of force and weight that makes them seem real.
Reception
Neon Genesis Evangelion was a commercial and critical hit upon its debut and has since been deemed a classic of the anime genre. This show is praised for its layered characters, provocative themes, and innovative animation.
The show’s conclusion is well-known as abstract and confusing and is a source of debate among viewers and critics. Many feel that the finale is an amazing piece of storytelling, whereas others believe it’s an unsatisfactory and confusing ending to the show.
It has recently been revived on streaming platforms and gained new viewers. The show’s impact on the anime world continues, as many draw inspiration from its themes and aesthetics.
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death And Rebirth (1997)
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth is a 1997 film recap and prequel to the initial Neon Genesis Evangelion series. The film is split into two sections: Death and Rebirth, which serves as an overview of the very first 24 shows of the series, and Rebirth, which is a preview of minutes for the movie scheduled to be released in the near future. End of Evangelion
Content
The first segment of Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth, entitled Death, summarizes the first 24 shows of the first series. This recap will be presented nonlinearly and include scenes from various episodes interspersed with one another. The recap also contains new footage and songs.
The film’s second segment, “Rebirth,” is a 27-minute preview of the upcoming film “End of Evangelion.” Rebirth features new animation as well as stories that were not in the first series. The preview ends with an abrupt cliffhanger and an episode that wouldn’t be solved until The End of Evangelion was released.
Reception
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth was not a huge hit with fans or critics when it was first introduced. Many fans thought the film was unneeded and didn’t add any new elements to the existing series. Some criticize the nonlinear format of the summary, which makes it difficult for those unfamiliar with the show.
A few fans were also dissatisfied with the quality of the Rebirth preview. They felt it was rushed and didn’t provide enough information on the coming film.
Significance
Despite the negative review, Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth has become significant within the larger Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise. The review portion of the film is typically included in the box sets of the series and is thought to be a great way for fans to recap the show’s happenings.
This Rebirth Preview is important because it includes the first animation and story material not included in the first series. The material is crucial to understanding the events of End of Evangelion, the final episode of the entire series.
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth is a film that functions as a recap as well as a preview for the initial Neon Genesis Evangelion series. Although it wasn’t well-received when it was released, it has been a major hit in terms of its place in the series since it is usually included in the box sets and includes important new material that fans can investigate.
The End Of Evangelion (1997)
The End of Evangelion is a 1997 film that is the finale of the first Neon Genesis Evangelion series. The film is famous for its controversial, polarizing conclusion, which has provoked numerous debates and discussions between critics and fans.
Story
The End of Evangelion picks up where the first series ended and finds the organization NERV fighting for its life in the face of angels. The film is split into two segments: “Air” and “Magokoro wo, Kimi ni” (“For You, in Your Heart”).
The first, “Air,” is an adaptation of the events of the two final episodes from the initial series; however, it is animated with a new style and a more coherent story. The second episode, “Magokoro wo, Kimi ni,” is an entirely new narrative and the concluding episode of the show.
The second portion of the film is set in the aftermath of the series’ final episode; however, it provides a more satisfying ending. In this film section, Shinji must accept or reject his existence. At the same time, he tries to accept his relationship with other characters and his role in the battle against the angels.
Themes
The End of Evangelion explores many of the same themes explored in the first series, such as the quest for identity, the significance of human connections, and the conflict between self-acceptance and rejection. The film also delved into the emotional and psychological experiences of the characters, such as Shinji, Asuka, and Rei.
The most prominent theme in the movie is the idea of “instrumentality,” which refers to the fusion of human consciousness as one being. This concept will be discussed in the film’s controversial and enigmatic conclusion, which has caused controversy among the people who love the film and its critics.
Animation
The animation of The End of Evangelion is mixed with traditional hand-drawn animation and computer-generated images (CGI). The film is renowned for using symbolic imagery and surreal images, especially in the second section of the film.
One of the most striking aspects of the animation in the film is the utilization of colors, with each scene and character depicted using a particular color scheme that represents their emotions and roles in the plot. The film’s battle scenes are also awe-inspiring and action-packed and have a feeling of impact and weight, which makes them feel more real.
Reception
The End of Evangelion was controversial and polarizing when it was released. It was a hit, with both critics divided on its merits. Many praised the film for its daring and unique storytelling, its exploration of difficult themes, and its unique animation.
Many critics of the film criticized it for its ambiguous and confusing conclusion, which left a lot of questions unanswered. It was also seen as a reversal from the earlier series’ contemplative and character-driven style. Many viewers also believed the movie’s darker, more violent content was unnecessary.
However, The End of Evangelion has been reviewed by a few people who have seen it as a masterpiece in the anime genre. The film’s influence on the medium continues to be felt in the present, with various films and shows drawing inspiration from its themes and aesthetics.
The End of Evangelion is an enthralling and controversial film that is the final chapter of the initial Neon Genesis Evangelion series. The film’s exploration of complicated themes, innovative animation, and enigmatic ending make it a classic of the anime genre and are a subject of discussion and debate between the public and even critics.
Rebuild Of Evangelion: A New Cinematic Experience
The Rebuild of Evangelion is a series of four films that tell the story of the first Neon Genesis Evangelion series with new animation, fresh scenes, and modifications to the characters and plot. The first film was released in 2007, with subsequent movies coming out in 2009, 2012, and 2021.
Story
The remake of Evangelion is based on the same plot as the first. It features Shinji Ikari being recruited by his father to pilot a huge mecha known as the “Evangelion” to protect the earth from the mysterious beings known as “Angels.” However, the Rebuild films feature new stories and characters and depart from the original in many ways.
The first film, Evangelion: You Are (Not) Alone, is closely based on the plot from the series’ initial six episodes; however, it introduces new characters and scenes. The second film, Evangelion: 2.0 You Can Not Advance, introduces a brand new pilot named Mari and differs from the original show in important ways. The third film, Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo, takes place 14 years following the events of the first film and examines the effects of Shinji’s actions.
The final film, Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, was released in 2021 and is the concluding film of the Rebuild of Evangelion series. The film features new characters and scenes and is a significant departure from the original in its final chapter.
Themes
Rebuild of Evangelion explores a variety of similar themes explored in the first series, such as the quest for identity, the significance of human connections, and the conflict between self-acceptance and self-rejection. But rebuild films also explore new themes. Rebuild films also explore new themes and various aspects of the characters and story.
One of the most prominent themes in the Rebuild films is the idea that we can “rebuild” ourselves and the idea of restablishing relationships, identity, and the entire world. The films also examine the notion of time and the effects of the past’s actions on the future.
Animation
The animation in Rebuild of the Evangelion movie combines traditional hand-drawn and computer-generated images (CGI). The films are renowned for their vivid hues, intricate details, and fluid motion.
A striking aspect of the Rebuild films’ animation is the style of the Evangelion mechas, which have been upgraded with new features and capabilities. The battles between Evangelion and the Angels are exciting and action-packed. They also feel force and weight, which make them feel real.
Reception
The rebuild of Evangelion has been well received by critics and fans alike, and many have praised the new animation, fresh characters and scenes, and modifications to the themes and plot. However, the films were also condemned for their departures from the original series, particularly the final film, as well as for their dependence on fan services and flashy scenes of action.
However, despite these criticisms, Rebuild of Evangelion has been an integral component of the Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise and has been introduced to new generations of fans. The films have also influenced the anime industry overall, which has seen several films and shows draw inspiration from animation and storytelling.
FAQ’s
What is Neon Genesis Evangelion?
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a Japanese anime series created by Hideaki Anno. It follows the story of a teenage boy named Shinji Ikari who is recruited by his father to pilot a giant bio-machine called an “Evangelion” to fight mysterious beings known as “Angels” that threaten to destroy the world.
What is the recommended watch order for Neon Genesis Evangelion?
There are two main options for watching Neon Genesis Evangelion: the original broadcast order and the “Director’s Cut” order. The original broadcast order is episodes 1-26 followed by the movie “End of Evangelion.” The “Director’s Cut” order is episodes 1-20 followed by the movie “Death & Rebirth,” then episodes 21-24 followed by “End of Evangelion.” The Director’s Cut includes additional scenes and edits that were not included in the original broadcast.
What is Death & Rebirth?
“Death & Rebirth” is a movie that was released in Japan in 1997. It consists of two parts: “Death,” a recap of the first 24 episodes of the series, and “Rebirth,” a preview of the upcoming movie “End of Evangelion.” “Death & Rebirth” is not essential to understanding the story, but it provides some additional context and background.
What is End of Evangelion?
“End of Evangelion” is a movie that serves as an alternate ending to the series. It was released in 1997 and provides a more definitive conclusion to the story than the final episodes of the series. It is recommended to watch “End of Evangelion” after finishing the main series.
Should I watch the original series or the Netflix version?
The Netflix version of Neon Genesis Evangelion includes a new English dub and a new translation that has been criticized by some fans for altering the meaning of certain lines. However, the Netflix version also includes the “Director’s Cut” episodes and “End of Evangelion,” which were not available in the original North American release. Ultimately, it is up to personal preference which version to watch.
Is there any other media related to Neon Genesis Evangelion that I should watch?
There are several other movies and spin-off series related to Neon Genesis Evangelion, but they are not essential to understanding the main story. Some examples include the movies “Rebuild of Evangelion” and the spin-off series “Neon Genesis Evangelion: The Shinji Ikari Raising Project.”
