The first Evangelion movie captivated me with its raw emotion and creativity, while this movie left me with a comforting feeling that there is hope for everyone to become a “happy adult”.
Never have I wanted such a depressing story to give me a break. Every time I got my hopes up, characters were forced through trauma after trauma. Who hurt you Hideaki Anno?
The visuals are as gorgeous as ever and some of my favorite scenes are of the village, where hope and regular living continue, despite the chaos. It also sharply contrasts the three troubled protagonists still haunted by the past. Oh, and that CGI scene we don't speak about.
Characters (spoilers)
Shinji - A love-hate relationship. On one hand, I relate to his loneliness, immaturity, and being held captive by insecurities. These are things people experience to a certain extent throughout their lives. Yet, his indecisiveness and inability to take action can be infuriating. When I first watched Evangelion as a teen, I wanted to beat him up like Asuka did in this movie. Now, I wish someone had given him a sincere hug earlier. Seeing the worst aspects of depression embodied in him is off putting, but Anno finally puts an end to his suffering. I'm really happy to see Shinji as a cheerful adult, now being the one in control.
Asuka - Outgrew her feelings for Shinji and matured both emotionally and physically. Glad to see her finally match her age, even though the erotic aspect of it was distasteful. Maybe it is a representation of her breaking free of her suit; mature enough to not be a prisoner to all it stands for.. especially for some fans.
Rei - Never cared for her before but grew on me throughout this movie. Her end was grotesque but somewhat expected. Everything about her was perverse from the start; a failed sad attempt by Shinji’s father, Gendou, to hold on to the past. I wish she matured like Asuka did but I hope she rests in peace.
Mari - Best girl and I don’t even know why. Very different from Asuka and Rei in a good way, and I wish we saw more of her. Cheerful, self-aware, and somewhat insane.
Misato - Waifu. Motherly figure that continuously sacrifices herself for what she believes in.
#
Music
Breathtaking and some of my favorite songs ever. What else can I say, I cried listening to “One Last Kiss”. “Beautiful World” will also always hold a special place in my heart.
To sum up my thoughts, this franchise was like being holed up inside an empty room for years, only to then step outside and feel the warmth of the sun on my face... realizing the world isn’t always as bad as it seems.
Adios Evangelion, I hope you never come back.
