Reader’s Question:
I have a question about Evangelion. If I watch “EVANGELION: DEATH (TRUE) 2” and “Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion,” can I skip the 26 episodes of the anime? Or is it better to watch the anime series as well?
Diving into Evangelion: Do You Really Need to Watch
the Series?
Ah, Neon Genesis Evangelion. The cornerstone of anime that can make even the most seasoned viewers question their sanity. If you’re asking whether you can skip the original 26 episodes and head straight for “EVANGELION: DEATH (TRUE) 2” and “Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion,” let me take you down this rabbit hole of existential angst and giant robots.
The Original Series: A Must-Watch?
First off, let me just say that Evangelion isn’t just an anime; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of animation and storytelling. The original 26 episodes serve as a deeply layered narrative filled with complex characters and psychological themes. In my own experience, watching the series felt like being pulled into a psychological labyrinth where every corner has something new to confront—whether it be my own fears or the existential dread that seems to permeate every episode.
Now, can you grasp the essence of Evangelion by diving straight into DEATH or End of Evangelion? The short answer is: sort of. DEATH acts as a sort of recap, but it’s not your standard “previously on” kind of deal. It’s more like a really intense highlight reel that leaves out a ton of context, character development, and emotional nuance that you’d get from the series itself.
The Characters: More Than Just Pilots
One of the most significant aspects of Evangelion is its characters. Shinji, Asuka, Rei—each of them embodies complex psychological states that are often explored in depth throughout the series. When you skip the show, you miss out on the gradual build-up of their personalities and the emotional heft that makes their arcs so compelling.
For instance, Shinji’s struggles with self-worth and his tumultuous relationships aren’t just background noise; they’re central to understanding the series’ themes. Watching him grapple with these issues over 26 episodes allows you to empathize with him, rather than just observing his pain from a distance. Trust me, when you finally get to those climactic moments in the films, you’ll wish you had that emotional investment.
The Films: A Different Experience
Now, don’t get me wrong—both DEATH and End of Evangelion are visually stunning and have their own merits. DEATH is an interesting reinterpretation that can provide a semblance of understanding if you’re really short on time. But, honestly, if you’re looking to grasp the “what,” “how,” and “why” of Evangelion, you might walk away feeling more confused than enlightened if you skip the series entirely.
When I first watched End of Evangelion, I was both captivated and bewildered. The film takes the series’ themes and cranks them up to eleven. It’s like the creators said, “Let’s throw in some mind-bending visuals, psychological turmoil, and a dash of the metaphysical for good measure.” But without the foundational understanding that the series provides, much of that impact can be lost, leaving newcomers feeling a bit adrift.
Conclusion: The Journey Matters
So, can you watch DEATH and End of Evangelion and feel like you’ve experienced Evangelion? Well, yes, but it’s like attending a concert of your favorite band and only hearing the greatest hits—all the deep cuts are left out. If you’re truly interested in understanding the intricate web woven by Hideaki Anno and his team, I strongly suggest investing your time in the original series. It’s a commitment, for sure, but one that pays off in spades!
In my opinion, if you want to truly appreciate the beauty and complexity of Evangelion, you owe it to yourself to watch all 26 episodes. It’s like going on a journey—you can’t just teleport to the destination without experiencing the twists and turns along the way. So grab some popcorn, a comfy blanket, and prepare for a ride through the emotional rollercoaster that is Neon Genesis Evangelion. You won’t regret it!
