Having been disappointed with the overly abstract and narrow focus of the ending to the TV series (see review below dated 13th September 2007) I was pleased to be informed that an alternative ending existed in the form of this here movie.Just to get some of the confusion regarding the various Evangelion films out of the way – Death and Rebirth also contains additional footage but nothing that isn’t included in the director’s cut of the TV series or EoE and really isn’t worth watching.
My main problem with the TV ending isn’t its confusingly surreal nature (which seems to be why most people find it so off-putting) but that it never concludes the main storyline. Much to my relief, EoE does this perfectly as it replaces the tangential episodes 25 and 26 with something far more in keeping with the quality of the rest of the show.
It’s hard to say much without giving away potentially massive spoilers but the tow extended episodes contains a finality to each of the characters journeys, large portions of insight into the intentions and motives of the concerned factions as well as some top notch Eva action.
Things, predictably, do turn surreal towards the end but the content is much more relevant to the plot; and although it is of a much grander scope than the original finale it is suitably shorter.
I know there are many who prefer the series ending but I really can’t see why. A claustrophobic and overly drawn-out psychoanalytical debate is fine as long as it brings together the main themes and plot issues to a satisfying conclusion but the type on offer at the end of the series is only suitable as a side story in my opinion.
End of Evangelion is the definitive climax to Neon Genesis Evangelion and is compulsory viewing for those who’ve watched the series.
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