Is is, in fact, an end of all Evangelion. Hopefully no one will come up with milking it no more.
Before starting the entirety let's all of u ask yourself, how much u love Evangelion, what it's mean for you? This finale is pretty much definition of love letter, not only for the fans, but as well Anno himself from himself. At last we are bound to strict and smooth vision, that ending in so bombastic but as well self-aware style it's beyond me and whole franchise as it is.
This review is completely spoiler-free.
THE STORY: 9
We do pick up basically more or less where we left off all these years ago. But thanks to enormously long runtime we have all of the characteristich psychological issued deepened and even further explained. What maked this movie the deepest and most intriguing in the whole tetralogy. Plus realism of writing is taken whole level up, especially considering what our expectations were towards Shinji, we can count on few really nice suprises. Ultimately is is cathartic and sad piece of work, but not to spoil, it is't End of Evangelion. It's Anno strong and clear with his vision. Yall be satisfied.
ART: 9
Well, it's outstanding, polished designs on the big screen are just like wet dream come true. Plus the art direction, world and mecha designs top notch with outstanding mix of really quality CGI was done more than decent. Color palette is light and very bright, create king of lighthearted atmosphere when it's really necessary, plus wide camera angles make it wven more fun. It's studio khara's best quality work up to date, immersive and eye-catching. A must see on big screen, so when yall have a chance - just head for your local cinema.
SOUND: 8
Sound design if reminded me of anything - Youjo Senki. Beautifully mixed and astonishingly rendered was an concerto for my ears. Returning seiyuu staff delivered what we expected, both - realistic and powerful performances. Soundtrack is as epic as it should be, monumental with some electronic extras here and there. And finally the beautiful ending theme 'One Last Kiss' by amazing Hikaru Utada ft. Hina, it hits harder and deeper, when u realise it's the final ending for the franchise. Song and artist choice was perfect. Will leave u sobbing at the very end of the ending credits.
CHARACTER: 8
Here I can literally say: HERE WE GO AGAIN.
But no, somehow I felt huge difference between earlier works and this. Now, when we entered the mature world of the ending, our characters have even less choices and there are still sacrifices to make. Shinji's progression is actually my favourite one, unlike in the old version, he became somewhat likeable and strong character. Plus having all the burden on the back shared just with the girls is feelable. It's definitely the best in the series from the point of psychological build. And rebuild, movie touches differently - meaning it will have different impact. I might bitch a bit, but unfortunately Maki character is the weakest part of the movie, but here I go again - no spoilers.
ENJOYMENT: 9
Well, I was always having tons of fun speaking of Evangelion in terms of enjoyment, but yes, this is bombastic, powerful and just stromng ending. Delivered tons of fun, great, great fights and huge destructions on-screen. Great action flick, great psychological tractat, great audiovisuals. Yes, by all means, I enjoyed it. And I enjoyed it TWICE. And will enjoy couple more times definitely. Plus, come on, it's damn Evangelion, we all have been waiting for it. And waiting since forever. Let yourself enjoy this movie, it's worth the time, money and your smile mixed with tears.
OVERALL: 9
Yes, it is ultimate Evangelion for the new generation, lighter, funnier and definitely less depressing. I like Anno when he have his vision sharp and clear, this time there's no place for some weird complications, it's a great finale this franchise deserves, it's as well poignant goodbye. Never expected to get such an ending, especially having orgy of destruction before my eyes. But yes, you will be satisfied, whether u are fan of the franchise or just casual viewer. Evagelion is done.
The end of all Evangelion has finally arrived, rejoice. It was great 25 years long journey. Thank you Mr. Anno, I am forever grateful. We all are.
