Reader’s Question:
Can I enjoy Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time even if I haven’t watched the anime? I’ve always been interested in Evangelion, and since there’s a revival screening, I thought it would be great to see it in theaters. However, I’ve only seen the first movie. I plan to
watch the anime afterward, but will I still be able to understand the movie? Also, which of the upcoming five films should I watch?
Can You Enjoy Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time Without Watching the Anime?
Hey there, fellow anime enthusiasts! So, I recently came across a question that got me thinking about a classic series that has puzzled and captivated fans for decades: Neon Genesis Evangelion. The specific query was about whether someone could dive into the latest installment, Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, without having gone through the whole anime series first. Spoiler alert: it’s a bit complicated.
The Intricate World of Evangelion
Evangelion is a beast in its own right. With its complex themes, psychological depth, and downright mind-bending plot twists, it’s no surprise that many fans are left scratching their heads even after multiple viewings. The original anime series came out in the mid-’90s and has since become a cornerstone of the mecha genre, blending action with deep existential questions and character development.
So, if you’re considering jumping straight into 3.0+1.0 without the anime, let’s just say you might be setting yourself up for a wild ride—one that could leave you more confused than entertained. While the film does have its own narrative, it heavily leans on the events of the earlier installments. The emotional weight of 3.0+1.0 relies significantly on the viewer’s understanding of previous character arcs and plot points.
What You Might Miss
For instance, you mentioned you’ve seen the first movie, which is a great start! However, that’s just scratching the surface. The first film serves as a reimagining of the original series, but it’s essential to know what happened in the show to grasp the full impact of the characters’ choices in the later films. Characters like Shinji, Asuka, and Rei have journeys that are rich with context, and without that, the emotional punches might just not land as they should.
Moreover, the intricacies of the Evangelion universe are woven into the very fabric of the characters and their relationships. You’ll find references, callbacks, and rich thematic elements that resonate much more deeply if you’ve experienced the anime. To put it simply, diving straight into 3.0+1.0 might feel like stepping into a highly advanced philosophical seminar without having taken any of the prerequisite courses.
Where to Start
If you’re still set on enjoying 3.0+1.0 in theaters, I’d recommend prioritizing the anime series first. There are a few options for you. You could opt for the original TV series, which is a classic in its own right. Or, if you want to save some time, you might consider watching the Rebuild of Evangelion movies. They offer a more condensed version of the story and might serve as a bridge to understanding the later films.
In fact, if you like a more streamlined version, the Rebuild films are designed to both recap the original series and present an alternate narrative. Starting with Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone, then moving on to 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance, before tackling 3.0+1.0 could serve you well. However, just a heads up—the emotional weight and complexity still won’t be fully realized without the original anime context.
In Conclusion
To sum it up, while it might be tempting to jump right into the cinematic experience of 3.0+1.0, you’ll likely find it much more rewarding to engage with the original series first. You don’t want to miss out on the layers and intricacies that make Evangelion such a monumental piece of art.
So grab some popcorn, buckle up, and get ready to dive into the world of mechas, angels, and psychological introspection. It’ll be a worthwhile journey, I promise! And who knows, by the time you get to 3.0+1.0, you might just find yourself with a newfound appreciation for the entire franchise. Happy watching!
