Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion is an influential and complex anime series that delves deep into the realms of psychology, philosophy, and the intricacies of human nature. Set in a futuristic post-apocalyptic world, the story follows the journey of a young teenager named Shinji Ikari, who is thrust into a world of giant mecha known as “Evas” and the desperate battle against mysterious creatures called “Angels” that threaten the existence of humanity.

The narrative unfolds in the city of Tokyo-3, a fortress-like metropolis built to protect its inhabitants from the relentless Angel attacks. Shinji, estranged from his father Gendo Ikari, is summoned to the city by the clandestine organization known as NERV. There, he discovers that he has been chosen to pilot one of the Evas, colossal bio-mechanical robots created to combat the Angels. Reluctantly accepting his fate, Shinji joins a group of equally young and damaged individuals who pilot the Evas alongside him, including the enigmatic Rei Ayanami and the fiery Asuka Langley Soryu.

As the series progresses, the plot becomes increasingly intricate, delving into the psychological depths of each character. Shinji, burdened by a troubled past and a fragile sense of self-worth, finds himself grappling with the weight of his responsibilities as an Eva pilot, questioning his purpose and struggling with the moral implications of his actions. The enigmatic Rei, with her enigmatic origins, explores her own identity and purpose, while the tempestuous Asuka grapples with her own personal demons and the scars of her past.

Beneath the surface of the intense mecha battles and the looming threat of the Angels, Neon Genesis Evangelion explores deeply philosophical and existential themes. The series delves into the human desire for connection, the consequences of isolation, and the inherent flaws and frailties that define humanity. It poses thought-provoking questions about the nature of existence, the meaning of life, and the impact of one’s choices on both personal and global scales.

Throughout the narrative, religious and mythological symbolism abound, with references to Christian imagery and biblical themes, further adding layers of complexity and depth to the story. The enigmatic organization NERV, led by Shinji’s distant and mysterious father, Gendo, harbors its own secrets and dark intentions, as it strives to unlock the true potential of the Evas and harness the power of the Angels.

Background:
Director Hideaki Anno’s depression is what led to the dark themes of Neon Genesis Evangelion. Budgetary problems and parental complaints about content led to the original ending being scrapped and replaced with an extremely limited-animation ending breaking from the main plot.

A movie, End of Evangelion, was later made based in part on the original planned ending and in part on Anno’s increasing frustration with the otaku fanbase. The series’ mix of psychoanalysis, religious symbolism, and genre deconstruction proved extremely influential on mature anime in the late ’90s onward. The Japan Media Arts Festival in 2006 ranked it as the most popular anime of all time.