Story: The story, as a remake of the original series, is fantastic. The plot is the same thus far (as I'm sure it will change in the next movies to come). The story has changed slightly in some aspects. Depending on how well you watched the first one, you'll see minor changes, (like the new NERV and SEELE logos). Also, there is less character analysis. You focus on the main characters (Shinji, Misato and Rei up until now). You don't see Shinji in the classroom at all, there is very little interaction other than the important ones. The reason being; you should've watched the first series first. That would've given you a little more character background. One of the biggest changes as far as the story went, was the battle with Ramiel. In the original series, it was a simple shot of the sniper rifle... Ramiel had 2 attacks. Very basic. In the new movie, the battle lasts nearly two times longer, and even though Ramiel is still killed with a sniper rifle, Operation Yashima is MUCH more thought out. Rameil's arsenal now includes about 5 or 6 attacks (which, are all impressive to be seen with the CGI enhancement)...
Art: Like I just mentioned, there is CGI enhancement. They show it a lot during the battle with Rameil, but also, it's used a lot within the entry plug, and within NERV headquarters. It's very impressive and well done; it wasn't overdone to say the least. Just the right amount of enhancement. You still get the vibe you're watching a hand-drawn anime, but, with a little kick to it.
Sound: Very impressive, as is everything else. The music has changed up a little bit from the original series' line up. It has the classical music playing in more critical areas. Aside from the music, there is also the sound effects. The sounds of shots, rawrs from angels or evas, and even just small random effects; they are all in sync and all match the correct time to be matched with.
Character: The characters, are still spot on from the original series. In some instances, I believe Shinji is a little more masculine than the original series, but, I never had a problem with that to begin with (as most people who judge the series apparently do). Misato develops her affinity towards Shinji a lot sooner. She is already holding his hand in some instances, and in one scene slaps her self after scolding Shinji because she obviously had regret for doing so. The rest of the cast are roughly the same. Minor changes obviously, but nothing huge.
Enjoyment: I've watched it twice so far...a week apart from both. The original series (as well as the manga) are/is my favorite series. They are perfect in my mind, and with the upcoming of this new series, I see little reason to say it's flawed in any way. It's just as good as the original, and with all of the enhancements, it has the capability of being better...or at least tied, to satiate you old school lovers.
Overall: Well, through the 5 previous categories, I think I basically summed up my views and hopes for the series. I am avidly awaiting Rebuild of Evangelion 2.0 : Division as I write this.
Thanks for reading,
Cory/Ikashashi
