Summary
End of Evangelion, a climactic film that concludes the original Neon Genesis Evangelion series, hits US theaters after nearly 27 years. The film provides essential context and action, serving as an alternative conclusion to the series’ original mysterious ending. Despite some confusing moments, the film is still critically acclaimed, scoring 90% on Rotten Tomatoes, with a limited theatrical release in March 2024.
Fans of the original Evangelical Neon Genesis can rejoice that the series’ climactic concluding film, End of Evangelion, is coming to American theaters– nearly 27 years after its initial release in Japan. Although the film has been released on home video and streaming before, this release marks the film’s first appearance in select theaters across the United States.
The film is in limited release from GKIDS, will be shown on March 17 and 20, 2024, in theaters nationwide. The screening will be in the original Japanese version with English subtitles, which will likely be welcomed by longtime fans of the series.
While other Evangelion films, especially the Rebuild of Evangelion quartet, have hit theaters, it may come as a shock to realize the film is arguably the first Evangelion (it was followed by a compilation film, Death and Rebirth, a recap of the series) was never actually shown to audiences in the US.
The end of Evangelion provides essential context for the series
Evangelion’s ending was created by Hideaki Anno & Studio Gainax
Following its conclusion, the original Neon Genesis Evangelion anime received some backlash for its bizarre ending, with the final two episodes consisting of monologues and introspection rather than climactic giant robot action. End of Evangelion was conceived as an alternate retelling of these last two episodes and is thus divided into two parts: Episode 25′ and Episode 26′. While the ending of the series revolves around the inner thoughts and fears of the characters End of Evangelion finally delivers the action-packed climax many fans have been waiting for.
However, that doesn’t mean End of Evangelion completely replaces the original ending. The two endings are intended to run parallel, as suggested by flashes of reality seen in the original episodes 25 and 26, which were expanded into full scenes in the film. The Evangelion ending itself has a lot of strange and confusing imagery, which may leave some viewers just as confused as the original ending. Watching both endings is often recommended by fans, providing a clearer picture of the events.
The end of Evangelion’s arrival in US theaters cements its legacy
End of Evangelion not only pleased fans but was also loved by critics, who found its dark themes and unique visuals appealing. The film holds a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes, which is especially impressive considering it was its first theatrical release. Fans should be aware that the film contains some disturbing content, both violent and sexual in nature, although those who have seen the film should be quite prepared. With only two nights left in theaters, fans need to act fast if they want to take advantage of this opportunity to watch Evangelical Neon Genesisbig ending on the silver screen.
Search The end of the Gospel when it hits theaters on March 20!