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Evangelion 1.01: You are [Not] Alone
Imagine having the ability to remake a movie several years later to not
only address certain plot holes but also open this movie to another
generation and just like George Lucas, Hideaki Anno, the creator of Neon
Genesis Evangelion has created Evangelion 1.01: You are [Not] Alone.
Even
though the original Neon Genesis Evangelion series is still one of the
most talked about anime series to date, the story was not the easiest to
follow and if you thought Akira was difficult, than you obviously had
not seen Neon Genesis Evangelion. Now if only George Lucas could remake
Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace!
Evangelion 1.01: You are [Not] Alone is the first remake of this new
series and is a fully fledged feature film. The film is set in 2015 and
mankind has been decimated by a meteor which hit in the year 2000 and
unfortunately this deadly meteor brought with it, the Angels.
Unfortunately these Angels are not godlike creatures and humanity has
banded together, more specifically the organisation called NERV to
create biomechanical creatures called Evangelions to protect Earth from
both the meteors and the Angels. To compound the situation, only
children can control these creations which makes things a little tricky
for all involved.
The
main protagonist in the movie is Shinji Ikari who the viewer is
introduced to early on the movie and as he roams the city breaking a
curfew, he is caught in a devastating battle between the military and a
monstrous creature. Thankfully he is rescued and brought to his mean
spirited father Gendo. Using the situation to his advantage, Gendo
decides to use his son to power one of the Evangelions who becomes the
reluctant hero and perhaps the saviour of humanity.
The
movie is quite top heavy with action, not that I'm complaining and if
you wish to watch battles of epic proportions, than you have come to the
right place. The characters are quite likeable, even the heartless
bastard Gendo and seeing the relationship between Shinji and his
acquaintance, Rei in the Evangelion program explored is quite
interesting to watch unfold. Of course, if you have seen the original
series, you already know how things will pan out, however there are
still a few new twists and turns along the way, to keep even the most
staunchest of fans pleased.
The video quality is quite impressive on DVD and the CGI and animation
looks visually stunning with a vibrant colour palette. This definitely
needs to be watched on widescreen and with your surround sound turned up
loud. Add in 5.1 surround sound and this is easily a true cinematic
experience. Unfortunately there are no extras included in this release
which is a shame.
In
conclusion, Evangelion 1.01: You are [Not] Alone was a thoroughly
enjoyable anime experience that goes beyond the original cartoon series.
With interesting and diverse characters, some great story telling, it's
easy to be drawn into this engaging tale about the final days of
mankind. Of course, the animation is also unparelled! |
