The End Of Evangelion (1997) Review

The End.

  Neon Genesis Evangelion proved to be a hit back in '96. However, many fans and critics alike were polarized over the ending, which didn't end that well, in opinion. After various death threats and hate mails, production studio Gainax (who worked on the original series) along with anime studio Production I.G, famous for 1995's Ghost in the Shell, bring us The End Of Evangelion, a alternative continuation of Neon Genesis Evangelion. The main question a fan would ask is: "Is it any good?" Well, it's time we found out.

Some Spoilers Ahead

STORY & CHARACTERS- The movie starts with a weird scene, which I won't spoil. The End of Evangelion is a retelling of episodes 25 and 26, focusing on the events outside of Shinji's mind. After killing fellow friend Kaworu Nagisa, who is revealed to be the 17th final Angel, Shinji is broken and left with sorrow. Without spoiling much of the film, there are questions left by the series that are answered, which a good thing. However, we get a more mysterious ending that leaves room for interpretation. At first I was disappointed once again for its ambiguity, but as time passed I came to accept it philosophical meaning. Again, it will polarize many to some extent.

 Series regulars make an appearance in the movie, though EoE focuses more on Shinji this time. Shinji, now distraught and sad, must once again face the threat of the Angels with the help of his fellow crew. The first part of the film is the usual Evagelion action provided by Asuka. The second part, however, is where the story and plot goes full psychological, which I found to be pretty good. Themes and questions such as "Why do we exist" and so on adds much needed depth. A downside of it, is the risk of the audience getting lost and completely confused.

PRESENTATION- To start off, Production I.G did a marvelous job with the presentation,a s expected. The backgrounds and designs are amazing and the battles featuring the Eva are stellar. The sound is also a strong factor. The voice cast of the original series make a return, with some cheesy dialogue. Though, it's the soundtrack that is the best part. A brief look at the presentation shows how much substance is added to The End Of Evangelion.

OVERALL- With great production values and complex messages, The End Of Evangelion may leave viewers scratching their heads with "What the hell happened?" And it's understandable. Overall, the film is worth a look, especially for fans, and should provide a good time.

-The End Of Evangelion features more violence and sexual themes as well as blood compared to the original series. Recommended to mature ages-

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