Courtesy of www.evangelion.jp

Through its development, Neon Genesis: Evangelion has proven to be an amazing anime. From its psychological mind games to its mysteries that make the viewer stay up late trying to decipher, Evangelion is undeniably masterclass.

Neon Genesis: Evangelion is an anime in which 14 year old main character Shinji Ikari (Megumi Ogata) is recruited by his absentee father to pilot a bio-mechanical mech called an Eva along with other children who have their own designated Eva’s. The purpose of the mechs is to save the world from catastrophe as there are interstellar creatures called “Angels” who spontaneously come to Earth, wreaking havoc. Despite the simple shonen-style plot, throughout the series deep mysteries are introduced that leave the audience wishing for more throughout the duration of the show.

On a first watch, the beginning of the show may appear boring to the average viewer. The beginning of the show feeds into its basic “boy in mech-suit fights giant monster” trope and can be seen as anti-climatic. While there are hints to deeper themes and mysteries, the majority is “boy versus monster”.

However, this bore should not discourage viewers from pursuing the series. Around episode eight, the seemingly monotonous show emerges into something much deeper as character Asuka Langley Soryu (Tiffany Grant) is introduced. Soryu’s character has much flair and adds an exciting spice to the show. 

Despite that bipolarity throughout the show, one thing that remains consistent throughout the series is the genius use of colors. At certain points of the show, the series flashes the viewer with stunning yet intriguing visuals that revolve around color. 

For example, a shot of Ikari walking through the city could be filled with unnatural pink hues. While eye candy, the meaning behind scenes like this goes much deeper. Color theory in Evangelion holds much significance and is a prime example of the show’s genius.

The transformation of the series from beginning to end is something that can be fully appreciated by the viewer and is yet another example of the genius behind it. 

The majority of the show is shown through an outside lens, not inherently through a certain point of view. Yet in the end of the show there is a clear switch to Ikari’s view point, how he sees his friends, the world around him, and most importantly how he views himself. This switch allows for a much more psychological perspective, truly enhancing the show.

Towards the end, the show alludes to many things rather than stating them upfront, leaving things up for fans to dive deep and explore. This psychological and mysterious take is something that can come across as uncomfortable to viewers, yet that’s what makes it so smart. Art is meant to leave people uncomfortable and questioning what they just saw.

While disliked by many viewers, the ending is exactly what it’s meant to be. It leaves the viewer saying “that’s it?” and often rewatching episodes to decipher the alluded answers. 

Despite the controversy, Neon Genesis: Evangelion proves time and time again to be the great show it is.