Evangelion, officially titled Neon Genesis Evangelion, is a groundbreaking anime that redefined the medium and remains one of the most influential works in the genre. Whether you're a seasoned anime fan or someone just stepping into this world, Evangelion offers a rich, multifaceted experience that resonates on numerous levels—emotional, psychological, philosophical, and aesthetic. Below are compelling reasons why you should watch Evangelion, a series that goes far beyond the surface of giant robots battling monstrous creatures.
1. Deeper Than Mechs and Monsters
At first glance, Evangelion might seem like just another mecha anime. However, what sets it apart from other series in the genre is its intense exploration of human nature, personal trauma, and existentialism. While giant robots (the Evas) fight mysterious, apocalyptic creatures known as Angels, this conflict is simply a backdrop for exploring much larger themes. The characters are deeply flawed individuals, struggling with issues like loneliness, fear, self-worth, and identity. The series subverts the typical "heroic" narrative often found in giant robot shows and instead examines the emotional and psychological costs of being thrust into a role of savior.
2. Psychological Depth and Character Development
The psychological complexity of the characters is one of Evangelion’s most notable features. Shinji Ikari, the protagonist, is a confused and emotionally distant 14-year-old boy who is summoned to pilot one of the Evas. His journey is not about becoming a traditional hero; it's about confronting his inner demons, such as his unresolved relationship with his father, his lack of self-acceptance, and his fear of rejection. Unlike many anime protagonists, Shinji is deeply flawed, indecisive, and emotionally vulnerable. He struggles with a sense of purposelessness and often questions whether his actions matter in the grand scheme of things.
As you follow Shinji’s growth, you’ll notice that other characters like Rei Ayanami, Asuka Langley Soryu, and Misato Katsuragi are also deeply humanized. They all face their own crises—Rei’s identity and purpose, Asuka’s overcompensation for deep insecurity, and Misato’s struggle to balance her professional and personal life. Each character’s development is integral to the series' thematic exploration of the human condition.
3. Philosophical and Existential Themes
Evangelion is not only a character study but also a philosophical exploration of existential themes. The series delves into concepts such as meaning in life, the fear of isolation, the struggle for personal identity, and the inherent anxiety of existence. The narrative presents the idea that human beings are ultimately alone in their struggles, but they must still forge connections with others, even if those connections are flawed or imperfect. Evangelion doesn't shy away from presenting a bleak outlook on the human experience, yet it also offers moments of transcendence, showing that meaning can be found even in the face of overwhelming odds.
The show is filled with references to religious symbolism, such as Christian imagery (the Angels, the Lance of Longinus, the Spear of Longinus), and philosophical concepts drawn from thinkers like Freud, Jung, and Nietzsche. However, these elements are not used for religious or intellectual spectacle but to underscore the deep emotional and existential crises the characters are going through. The complexity of these ideas rewards multiple viewings, as each time you revisit the series, you may discover new layers to unpack.
4. Innovative Animation and Direction
Evangelion revolutionized anime production in terms of both animation quality and direction. Directed by Hideaki Anno, the show utilizes a blend of traditional hand-drawn animation, still frames, and psychological, sometimes surreal imagery to convey complex emotions. The Evas themselves are beautifully animated, and the battle sequences with the Angels are tense, thrilling, and full of visual flair. The careful attention to detail and the unique artistic choices make it stand out in the realm of anime.
However, Evangelion is also known for breaking conventional anime tropes, especially with its use of abstract, non-linear storytelling in certain episodes. The show sometimes uses minimalistic or heavily stylized visuals to represent a character’s internal turmoil. It shifts from intense action scenes to quieter, more intimate moments without warning, which reflects the characters’ emotional states and adds to the narrative's power. The incorporation of unconventional and sometimes disturbing imagery enhances the psychological experience, making the anime unforgettable.
5. Cultural Impact and Legacy
When Neon Genesis Evangelion first aired in 1995, it made a massive impact on the anime industry, influencing not only future anime but also popular culture as a whole. The series reshaped what audiences expected from anime—moving away from action-oriented shows to ones that offered more complex and thought-provoking narratives. The characters' struggles with mental health and their nuanced emotional journeys paved the way for future anime series that dared to explore deep psychological and existential themes.
Even today, Evangelion remains one of the most referenced and discussed anime series worldwide. Its influence can be seen in the work of directors like Yoshiyuki Tomino (Mobile Suit Gundam) and Shinichirō Watanabe (Cowboy Bebop), as well as in the broader media landscape. For anyone interested in understanding the history and evolution of anime, Evangelion is a must-watch.
6. A Timeless Story About the Human Condition
Above all, what makes Evangelion such a compelling watch is that it is ultimately a timeless story about the human condition. The series doesn't just focus on the external battles between mechas and monsters, but on the internal struggles that define our existence. Shinji's feelings of inadequacy, Asuka’s inner pain masked by arrogance, Rei’s search for identity—these are issues that transcend the show’s setting and resonate with viewers of all backgrounds and experiences. Watching Evangelion is an exploration of who we are, why we feel the way we do, and how we navigate the complexities of life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Neon Genesis Evangelion is much more than a standard mecha anime. It is a deep psychological, philosophical, and emotional journey that has shaped the anime medium. The powerful character development, stunning animation, exploration of existential themes, and its cultural impact make it a series that’s not only worth watching but also worth reflecting on. Even if you're new to anime, Evangelion offers a unique and thought-provoking experience that stays with you long after you've finished it. So, if you're ready for an anime that challenges you both intellectually and emotionally, Evangelion is an essential watch.