Reader’s Question:
I recently became interested in Evangelion and started looking for it on Netflix, but I found three different versions. I’m not sure which one to start with. What order should I watch them in?
My Journey with Evangelion: A Comedy of Errors
When I first dipped my toes into the
world of Neon Genesis Evangelion, I felt like a kid in a candy store—excited, a bit overwhelmed, and definitely ready for a good laugh. I mean, who knew mecha and existential dread could be so entertaining? So, there I was, scrolling through Netflix, my eyes widening as I stumbled upon three different versions of the series. I felt like I had just walked into a comedy club with three headliners, and I had to pick the right one to kick off my night. I remember thinking, “Do I want the classic stand-up routine or the fresh, new sketch?” I decided to start with the original TV series, Shin Seiki Evangelion, all 26 episodes. I dove in headfirst, and let me tell you, the combination of teenage angst and giant robots had me laughing and contemplating life in equal measure. The character interactions were so relatable, even if they were wrapped up in the most bizarre scenarios. After finishing the series, I figured I’d check out DEATH(TRUE)2, the recap movie. It was like going to a comedy show where they rehash the best bits but somehow make them even more profound. I found myself chuckling at moments I had missed the first time around. It was like watching a stand-up special where the comedian adds new punchlines to old jokes! Then came the 1997 movie adaptations, Air and Magokoro wo Kimi ni. Now, this was a wild ride! It felt like the director was taking me on a rollercoaster of emotions, throwing in plot twists that made me laugh one moment and question my life choices the next. I remember pausing halfway through to grab some snacks, thinking, “What did I just watch?” and giggling at how dramatic it all was. After that, I learned about the Rebuild of Evangelion series, which is available on Amazon Prime. I was like a kid at a buffet, trying to decide if I wanted to go back for seconds or just stick to the classics. Watching the new adaptations felt like a fresh spin on a classic joke—familiar yet exciting. As I shared my journey with friends, they laughed at my confusion but appreciated the enthusiasm I had for the series. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are the ones filled with a bit of chaos and plenty of laughs. So, if you’re diving into Evangelion, I’d suggest starting with the TV series, then moving on to DEATH(TRUE)2, and finally checking out the movies. And don’t skip the Rebuild series later; it’s like a fun reunion with old friends! What about you? Have you had similar experiences with shows or movies? I’d love to hear your stories or any tips you have for navigating the wild world of anime in the comments below!
