Reader’s Question:
I’m thinking about watching Evangelion, but could you please tell me the best order to watch it?
Embarking on the Evangelion Journey
Ah, Evangelion! The name alone conjures up a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts. I remember the first time I decided to dive into the world of NERV and
the enigmatic Eva units. It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I had stocked up on snacks—an assortment of chips, a couple of chocolate bars, and, of course, some caffeinated drinks to keep me awake through the mind-bending plot twists. I settled in, ready to immerse myself in the iconic series.
Starting with the Classics
The consensus among fans, as you’ve seen, is to begin with the original Shinseiki Evangelion series. It’s the cornerstone of the entire franchise, and honestly, I couldn’t agree more. Watching those 26 episodes felt like stepping into a beautifully chaotic dream. I remember laughing and gasping at the same moments, often questioning my own sanity—like when Gendo’s motivations became clearer, or when Asuka’s complexities unfolded. It was a rollercoaster, to say the least! After finishing the series, I dove into Air/まごころを、君に. It was fascinating to see how the creators reinterpreted the last two episodes of the TV series. I remember sitting in silence as the credits rolled, feeling a strange mix of satisfaction and confusion, which is pretty much the Evangelion experience in a nutshell.
The Marvel of Manga
Now, if you have the time (and I highly recommend you do), the manga by Sadamoto Yoshiyuki adds another layer to the story. It’s not often that adaptations differ so significantly, but this one does in the best way possible. I found myself chuckling at the subtle differences in character interactions that weren’t as pronounced in the anime. Plus, the artwork is just stunning! I recall one evening, completely lost in the pages, forgetting about dinner until my roommate reminded me (with a laugh) that I was, indeed, starving.
New Beginnings with Rebuild
Once you’ve soaked in the original series and the manga, it’s time to tackle the Rebuild of Evangelion. Watching Shin Evangelion felt like reuniting with old friends but in a completely different context. The visuals are breathtaking, and the new twists kept me at the edge of my seat. I still chuckle when I think back to how I accidentally watched Q before 破—what a wild ride that was! These films are akin to reimagining a classic; they bring fresh perspectives while keeping the core essence intact. It’s a different experience, and I found myself reflecting on how my understanding of the characters had evolved since the first viewing.
Final Thoughts
In retrospect, my journey through Evangelion was more than just watching a series; it was an exploration of complex themes, character development, and, most importantly, my own emotional responses to profound storytelling. I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you embarked on this journey yet? What were your standout moments, or perhaps you stumbled into some unexpected twists? Share your experiences or any tips you might have in the comments below!
