Reader’s Question:
Can I understand the appeal of Evangelion if I start with the movie version?
Can You Really Get the Appeal of Evangelion Starting with the Movies?
Hey there, fellow anime enthusiasts! So, let’s dive into the intriguing world of “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” shall we? I recently came across a question
that really made me think: “Can I understand the appeal of Evangelion if I start with the movie version?” This got me reflecting on my own journey into the iconic series, and trust me, it’s been a wild ride. Buckle up; let’s explore this together!
Starting Off with the Movies
Alright, let’s be real for a second. If you jump straight into the movies without any background, you’re kind of diving into the deep end before learning how to swim. The original movie, “Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death and Rebirth,” is essentially a recap of the TV series mixed with new material. It’s like watching the season finale of a show without having seen any of the episodes leading up to it. You might catch some of the emotional beats, but a lot of the nuance will be lost on you.
But hey, I get it! Sometimes you’re just looking for a quick hit, especially with a title this legendary. I remember when I first stumbled upon the movies. I thought, “Why not start here? Everyone raves about Evangelion!” But by the end of “Death and Rebirth,” I was left with more questions than answers. Who’s this Shinji kid? Why is he so moody? And what’s the deal with all these giant robots?!
Understanding the Original Series
If you really want to appreciate what makes Evangelion such a groundbreaking series, I’d strongly recommend starting with the original 26-episode anime. Trust me; it’s worth it. The character development, the intricacies of the plot, and the psychological themes are all laid out in a way that makes the experience so much richer. I remember binging the series late at night, fully invested in Shinji’s struggles and the complexities of human emotions. It was almost like therapy, but with giant robots!
Once you’ve tackled the TV series, you’ll find that watching the movies becomes a whole different ballgame. The original film adaptations—especially the last two episodes—offer a unique reimagining that connects back to the themes established in the series. It’s like finding a secret level in a video game; you see the story from a new perspective, and it all starts to click.
The Rebuild Series: A Fresh Take
Now, let’s shift gears a bit. If you’re more intrigued by the newer interpretations, then the “Rebuild of Evangelion” series is where it’s at. This four-part film series takes the original premise and reimagines it for a new generation. And guess what? You can totally dive into these without having watched the original series. They stand alone in a way that’s incredibly accessible.
I remember watching “Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone,” and I was hooked pretty quickly. The animation was stunning, and the story moved at a pace that kept me engaged. There’s a freshness to the way the characters are portrayed, and while some elements are familiar, others take surprising turns that keep you guessing. It’s like meeting an old friend who’s suddenly become a rock star!
Connecting the Dots
Still, a little secret: Having the context from the original series makes the Rebuild series even more enjoyable. It’s like watching a cover band play your favorite songs—you love it, but you appreciate the original even more. If you know the backstory, you start to see how the new interpretations provide different angles on the same characters and themes.
If you decide to go through the Rebuild movies, I’d recommend watching them in order:
1. Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone
2. Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance
3. Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo
4. Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time
Each one builds on the last, and the character development remains rich and engaging throughout. Watching them in sequence is kind of like going on a roller coaster—you just have to hold on and enjoy the ride!
Final Thoughts
So, can you start with the movies? Sure, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you want to fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Evangelion. There’s something special about going through the original series that will enhance your understanding of the movies.
Whether you choose to binge the original series or dive into the Rebuild films, just remember to keep an open mind and allow yourself to feel the myriad of emotions that the story elicits. It’s a journey, folks—a psychological, sometimes bizarre journey, but a rewarding one. And who knows? You might find yourself laughing and crying in equal measure, just like I did.
So grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready to enter the world of Evangelion. Trust me; it’s a ride you won’t forget!
