Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Neon Genesis Evangelion.
What is Neon Genesis Evangelion?
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a landmark 1995 anime series created by Gainax that follows teenagers piloting giant bio-mechanical robots to defend Earth from mysterious entities called Angels. It blends mecha action with deep psychological themes, exploring trauma, depression, and human connection through its complex narrative.
Who are the main characters?
The story centers on Shinji Ikari, a reluctant pilot chosen by his father to drive Unit-01, alongside fellow pilots Rei Ayanami and Asuka Langley Soryu. They are guided by the enigmatic Gendo Ikari and monitored by the mysterious organization SEELE while struggling with their own emotional burdens.
Where should new viewers start?
Beginners should watch the original 26-episode TV series first to experience the complete narrative arc, including its controversial ending. Afterward, you can choose to view 'The End of Evangelion' movie for an alternate conclusion or explore the four Rebuild films as a separate, modernized retelling.
What are the Angels?
Angels are powerful, otherworldly beings that appear sequentially throughout the series with unique forms and abilities threatening humanity's existence. They serve as both physical antagonists for the Evangelions to fight and metaphysical symbols representing barriers between humans and their origins.
Why is the ending of the TV series so confusing?
The final two episodes were produced under severe budget constraints, forcing the creators to replace planned action sequences with abstract psychological introspection. This unconventional approach left many viewers bewildered but ultimately sparked a cult following and led to the release of 'The End of Evangelion'.
What is Instrumentality?
Human Instrumentality is a central plot concept involving the merging of all human souls into a single collective consciousness to eliminate individual isolation and pain. It represents the ultimate choice between maintaining painful individuality or achieving a unified, emotionless existence.
Who created Neon Genesis Evangelion?
The series was primarily conceived by Hideaki Anno, who served as director, writer, and character designer while drawing heavily from his personal experiences with depression. The production team included key figures like Yoshiyuki Sadamoto for character design and Ikuto Yamashita for the mecha designs.
What is the difference between the TV series and the Rebuild films?
The original TV series offers a gritty, psychological drama that concludes with 'The End of Evangelion,' while the Rebuild film quadrilogy reimagines the story with updated animation and significant plot deviations. The Rebuild saga eventually diverges into an entirely new narrative path distinct from the 1990s source material.
What are the Evangelions?
The Evangelions, or Evas, are colossal bio-mechanical weapons powered by human souls that can only be piloted by specific children. Unlike traditional robots, they possess organic flesh and require a synchronization link with their pilots to function effectively in battle.
What is the significance of NERV?
NERV is a paramilitary organization headquartered under Tokyo-3, tasked with developing Evangelions and coordinating defense strategies against Angel attacks. While publicly presented as a UN agency, it secretly operates under the directives of the shadowy council known as SEELE to execute their own agenda.