15 Best Anime Tie-In Movies Of All Time
2. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End Of Evangelion
A series' ending can have a big impact on the show altogether. That's why many people were rubbed the wrong way by the conclusion of the groundbreaking anime, Neon Genesis Evangelion.
While the show's climax delivered something philosophical and full of symbolism, it didn't go out with a bang. But thankfully, Hideaki Anno (the creator) got a second chance.
The aptly titled End of Evangelion takes the show's last two episodes and remakes them. It follows as Seele launches an attack on Nerv in an attempt to initiate Human Instrumentality - turning all life into one consciousness. The protagonist Shinji becomes wrapped up in this as the battle rages on.
One term that hits the nail on the head with this one is; messed up. Evangelion always played with bombastic violence/gratuity, but this movie pushed it even further. There are scenes - including the opening - that are tough to sit through.
Still, behind the layers of surface-level shocks comes the true genius of End of Evangelion, that being the symbolism and philosophy. This movie creates an abstract and, at times, nonsensical story. However, it's rich in visual storytelling and obtuse concepts, such as existence and individuality, making it a profound exploration of what animation can accomplish.
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An honourable mention goes to the rebuild trilogy, which is also spectacular.