Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time - A Review

Neon Genesis Evangelion. The name alone conjures images of giant biomechanical angels, teenage pilots grappling with existential dread, and a narrative tapestry woven with complex religious and psychological themes. For years, fans have debated, dissected, and deconstructed Hideaki Anno's magnum opus. Now, after a journey spanning decades, the Rebuild of Evangelion tetralogy concludes with Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time. But does this final chapter deliver the closure, catharsis, and conclusion that fans have been craving? Or does it simply add another layer of complexity to an already labyrinthine narrative? Let's delve into the heart of this monumental film.

Plot Summary and Analysis

Picking up after the cataclysmic events of Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo, the film finds Shinji Ikari in a state of catatonic despair. The world is a desolate wasteland, ravaged by the Fourth Impact. He, along with Asuka and a Rei clone, are rescued by members of Wille, an organization dedicated to opposing NERV. They find refuge in Village-3, a small, self-sufficient community that represents a stark contrast to the technological and militaristic world they once knew. Here, they experience a semblance of normalcy, learning to live without Evangelions and confronting the emotional scars of their past.

This initial act, a significant departure from the series' usual high-octane action, serves as a crucial grounding element. It allows the characters, and particularly Shinji, to heal and develop in a way that was previously impossible. We see Asuka confronting her own vulnerabilities and Rei learning about human connection. Even Shinji, initially paralyzed by guilt and trauma, slowly begins to find a reason to live.

However, the peace is short-lived. Gendo Ikari, Shinji's enigmatic and emotionally distant father, continues his plan to trigger the Final Impact, aiming to reshape reality according to his own desires. Wille, led by Misato Katsuragi, prepares for a final confrontation with NERV. The latter half of the film shifts gears dramatically, plunging back into the familiar territory of Eva battles, philosophical debates, and mind-bending visuals.

The climax of the film takes place in a newly created anti-universe, a space where the laws of physics are malleable and the boundaries between reality and fiction are blurred. Here, Shinji confronts his father, not just as an enemy, but as a man grappling with his own pain and regrets. The ensuing battle is not just a physical one, but a psychological and emotional showdown, a confrontation with the trauma that has defined both their lives.

Ultimately, Shinji chooses to rewrite reality, creating a world without Evangelions, a world where he and his friends can live normal lives, free from the burden of piloting giant robots and fighting angels. This act of selflessness and acceptance marks a significant turning point for Shinji, transforming him from a passive and self-destructive figure into a proactive agent of change.

Character Development and Performances

One of the greatest strengths of Thrice Upon a Time is its focus on character development. Shinji's journey is the heart of the film, and his transformation is both believable and deeply moving. From his initial despair to his eventual acceptance and self-discovery, his arc is handled with sensitivity and nuance. Megumi Ogata's performance as Shinji is exceptional, capturing the character's vulnerability, pain, and ultimately, his newfound strength.

Asuka Langley Soryu, voiced by Yuko Miyamura, also undergoes significant development. While she retains her fiery personality, she reveals a deeper vulnerability and a longing for connection. Her interactions with Shinji are particularly poignant, hinting at a complex and unspoken love.

The Rei clones, voiced by Megumi Hayashibara, continue to be a source of mystery and intrigue. The film explores the nature of their existence and their connection to Lilith, the progenitor of humanity. The Rei introduced in the village setting provides a particularly interesting contrast to the stoic pilot we've come to know, showcasing a capacity for empathy and human connection that was previously absent.

Gendo Ikari, voiced by Fumihiko Tachiki, is perhaps the most complex and controversial character in the series. In Thrice Upon a Time, we finally gain a deeper understanding of his motivations and the source of his pain. The film humanizes him, revealing the tragedy that shaped his life and the desperate measures he took to try to reunite with his deceased wife, Yui. While his actions remain reprehensible, the film provides a glimpse into the broken heart that drove him.

Misato Katsuragi, voiced by Kotono Mitsuishi, continues to be a strong and supportive figure, guiding Shinji and leading Wille in their fight against NERV. Her sacrifice in the film is both heartbreaking and heroic, solidifying her status as one of the series' most beloved characters. The supporting cast, including Ritsuko Akagi, Maya Ibuki, and the other members of Wille, also play important roles in the narrative, providing emotional support and contributing to the overall sense of camaraderie.

Direction, Cinematography, and Animation

Hideaki Anno's direction is masterful, blending moments of intense action with introspective character studies. He utilizes a variety of visual techniques, including dynamic camera angles, creative editing, and innovative animation, to create a truly immersive and engaging experience. The film is a visual feast, showcasing the beauty and destruction of the post-apocalyptic world with stunning detail.

The cinematography is equally impressive, employing a rich color palette and dramatic lighting to create a sense of mood and atmosphere. The action sequences are particularly well-executed, with fluid animation and exhilarating choreography. The use of CGI is seamless, blending seamlessly with the traditional animation to create a visually stunning and believable world. The film also incorporates live-action footage in subtle ways, blurring the lines between reality and fiction and adding another layer of complexity to the narrative.

The animation quality is a significant improvement over the previous Rebuild films. The character designs are more refined, the movements are more fluid, and the overall level of detail is significantly higher. The Eva units themselves are rendered with incredible detail, showcasing their biomechanical complexity and their raw power. The film also features some truly breathtaking visual effects, particularly during the climactic battle sequence.

Themes and Messages

Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time explores a wide range of complex themes, including:

• Trauma and Healing: The film delves into the psychological scars of the characters, exploring the long-term effects of trauma and the importance of healing and self-acceptance.
• Parental Relationships: The complex and often destructive relationships between parents and children are a central theme, particularly the relationship between Shinji and Gendo.
• The Nature of Reality: The film questions the nature of reality and the power of human consciousness to shape it.
• Free Will vs. Determinism: The characters grapple with the question of whether their lives are predetermined or whether they have the power to choose their own destiny.
• The Meaning of Life: The film explores the search for meaning and purpose in a world that often seems meaningless and chaotic.
• The Power of Human Connection: The importance of human connection and the ability to find solace and support in others is a recurring theme.
• Letting Go: Ultimately, the film is about letting go of the past, accepting the present, and embracing the future.

The film's message is ultimately one of hope and redemption. It suggests that even in the face of unimaginable trauma and despair, it is possible to find healing, acceptance, and a reason to live. It also emphasizes the importance of human connection and the power of love to overcome even the darkest of challenges.

Comparison to Other Works

Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time is the culmination of a long and complex journey that began with the original Neon Genesis Evangelion anime series in 1995. The Rebuild of Evangelion films are not simply remakes of the original series, but rather a reinterpretation and expansion of the story. While the basic plot elements remain the same, the Rebuild films introduce new characters, new plot twists, and a different overall tone.

Compared to the original series and the End of Evangelion film, Thrice Upon a Time offers a more optimistic and hopeful conclusion. While the original series ended on a note of ambiguity and despair, Thrice Upon a Time provides a sense of closure and resolution. Shinji's final act of rewriting reality is a clear rejection of the nihilistic tendencies of the original series and a reaffirmation of the power of human agency.

The film also draws inspiration from other works of science fiction and philosophical literature, including the works of Carl Jung, Sigmund Freud, and Friedrich Nietzsche. The themes of existentialism, psychoanalysis, and the nature of consciousness are all present in the film, adding layers of depth and complexity to the narrative.

In terms of other anime films, Thrice Upon a Time shares similarities with works such as Akira and Ghost in the Shell, which also explore themes of technology, identity, and the future of humanity. However, Evangelion distinguishes itself through its unique blend of action, drama, and psychological introspection.

Positive Aspects

• Satisfying Conclusion: The film provides a definitive and emotionally resonant conclusion to the Evangelion saga.
• Excellent Character Development: The characters are well-developed and their emotional journeys are compelling.
• Stunning Visuals: The animation, cinematography, and visual effects are all top-notch.
• Thought-Provoking Themes: The film explores complex and meaningful themes that resonate with viewers.
• Masterful Direction: Hideaki Anno's direction is masterful, blending action, drama, and psychological introspection seamlessly.

Constructive Criticism

• Pacing Issues: The film's pacing can be uneven at times, with the first act feeling slow and deliberate compared to the action-packed second half.
• Overly Complex Plot: The plot can be difficult to follow at times, particularly for viewers who are not familiar with the previous Evangelion works.
• Some Unresolved Questions: While the film provides a sense of closure, some questions remain unanswered, which may frustrate some viewers.
• Fan Service Elements: Some elements of the film feel like fan service, which may detract from the overall narrative.

Conclusion

Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time is a monumental achievement in animation and a fitting conclusion to the Rebuild of Evangelion tetralogy. While it may not be perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The film is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and intellectually stimulating experience that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll. It is a testament to the power of animation to explore complex themes and tell compelling stories. Whether you're a longtime fan of Evangelion or a newcomer to the series, Thrice Upon a Time is a must-see film that will leave you pondering the nature of reality, the meaning of life, and the importance of human connection.

Rating: 9.5/10