A Comprehensive Analysis of the Rebuild of Evangelion Films

Evangelion stands as a masterpiece to many anime fans, but the Rebuild versions by Hideaki Anno completely reimagine the beloved series with their own unique narrative, visual, and technical elements. This article delves into the structure, story changes, visual and technical enhancements, themes and tone, as well as the introduction of new characters and elements in the Rebuild films.

Structure and Length:

The original anime of Neon Genesis Evangelion consists of 26 episodes that aired from 1995 to 1996, developing a complex narrative over a longer format. In contrast, the Rebuild films, which began in 2007, take a different approach in storytelling.

Structure and Length

The structure and length of the Rebuild films differ significantly from the original. The series started with the first film in 2007 and went on to release a second film in 2009, followed by the third in 2012. The Rebuild films are designed to provide a more streamlined, albeit more intense, narrative experience. The production of these films faced numerous delays, with the last film only debuting in 2021 due to pandemic-related production complications.

Story Changes

Plot Adjustments: The Rebuild films modify certain plot points and character arcs differently. For instance, in the films, the story follows a more linear narrative path, simplifying some of the complex elements present in the original series. This adjustment makes the plot more accessible to a broader audience.

Character Development: The Rebuild series offers a more in-depth exploration of characters, especially in the roles of Asuka and Kaworu. Asuka receives extensive development, showcasing more of her inner turmoil and motivations, while Kaworu's role is more significantly expanded, with new dimensions introduced to his character.

Visual and Technical Enhancements

Animation Quality: The Rebuild films feature advanced animation techniques and higher production values, resulting in a visually stunning experience. The use of modern CGI and animation styles elevates the visual quality compared to the original series, which relied more on traditional cel animation.

Soundtrack: The films feature a new soundtrack by composer Shiro Sagisu that includes both new compositions and reimagined themes from the original series. The music enhances the emotional and psychological depth of the films, contributing to their overall impact.

Themes and Tone

Exploration of Themes: While both the original series and the Rebuild films explore deep psychological and philosophical themes, the Rebuild films often present these themes in a more straightforward manner, making them more accessible and digestible for a broader audience.

Endings: The conclusions of the two series are notably different. The original series ends with an abstract and introspective finale, leaving much to the viewer's interpretation. In contrast, the Rebuild films provide a more definitive and action-oriented resolution, providing closure that complements the more straightforward storytelling.

New Characters and Elements

Introduction of New Characters: The Rebuild films introduce several new characters and elements that were not present in the original series. These additions add complexity to the narrative, providing new dimensions to the world of Evangelion.

Changes in the Setting: The world-building is altered slightly with some new technological advancements and changes to the geopolitical context of the story, further enriching the narrative.

Conclusion

Overall, while the original Evangelion is a masterful work, the Rebuild versions offer a fresh take on the series, enhancing its visual and narrative elements. These films not only pay tribute to the original but also introduce new perspectives and complexities that enrich the overall experience for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.