Reader’s Question:
Are the Evangelion anime and movies all connected? Or is the Rebuild of Evangelion series just a remake of the original Neon Genesis Evangelion movies with the same content? Please let me know.
Is Evangelion All Connected? Understanding the Relationship Between the Original and Rebuild Series
Hey there, fellow anime
lovers! Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s been on my mind for a while: the relationship between the original Neon Genesis Evangelion series and the Rebuild of Evangelion films. With all the twists, turns, and existential crises packed within this franchise, it can be a little confusing to sift through what’s connected and what’s not. So let’s take a closer look, shall we?
The Genesis of Evangelion
When I first encountered Evangelion, it felt like stepping into a vast ocean of philosophy and psychology, with a sprinkle of giant mechs and teenage angst. Initially, the original TV series aired in 1995, and it was a game-changer in the anime landscape. It shattered conventions and made viewers question not only the nature of humanity but also their own existence. Crazy, right?
So, fast forward to the mid-2000s, and we have the Rebuild of Evangelion films starting to take shape. This new project kicked off as a sort of remake of the original series. The creator, Hideaki Anno, had not planned on revisiting this world, but circumstances—like a tumultuous takeover of his studio, Gainax—pushed him to start a new company, Studio Khara, and eventually, the Rebuild project was born.
From Remake to Something Deeper
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Initially, Anno intended for the Rebuild series to be a reimagining of the original story. The first two films—Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone and Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance—were quite faithful to the original plot. In fact, they felt like a rehash, only with modern animation and a fresh coat of paint. I mean, let’s be honest; the visuals were stunning, but I was kind of left wondering, “What’s new here?”
But then, something shifted. After the devastating events of March 11, 2011, Anno found himself compelled to express a sense of loss and despair through his work. This led to the third film, Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo, which took a sharp turn into a narrative filled with new characters and themes. Suddenly, it felt like we were no longer just watching a remake; we were on a completely new journey. The original plans were scrapped, and a whole new direction emerged. Talk about a plot twist!
Connecting the Dots
So, are these series really connected? The answer is layered. On a strict plot level, the original series and the Rebuild films diverge significantly after the first two films. However, when you consider the emotional journey of Hideaki Anno himself—his struggles, his growth, and his reflections on life—it’s all intertwined. The themes of despair, hope, and human connection resonate throughout both the original and the Rebuild series.
The Rebuild films essentially serve as a commentary on the evolution of Anno’s mindset, making both series connected through the lens of the creator’s personal journey. It’s fascinating how this reflects in the narrative style and character development. You can see shifts in tone and perspective that mirror Anno’s own life experiences. It’s like watching a man grow up and confront his demons through his art—how cool is that?
Final Thoughts: The Conclusion of Eva
As we reach the end of the Rebuild series with Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, it feels like a bittersweet closure not just for the characters but also for the legacy of Evangelion itself. Anno managed to encapsulate all the different layers of the franchise—old and new—creating a conclusive statement that ties everything together.
In conclusion, yes, the original Neon Genesis Evangelion and the Rebuild of Evangelion films are connected, but not in the straightforward sense of a linear story. They are woven together through the experiences and evolution of Hideaki Anno, which ultimately enriches our understanding of both narratives. It’s a complex relationship, but one that offers a deeper appreciation for the work as a whole.
So, if you haven’t yet, I highly recommend diving into both series. Whether you’re revisiting the original or exploring the Rebuild films, there’s a wealth of material to reflect on. And who knows? You might find new connections and meanings that resonate with you, just as they did for me. Happy watching!
