Evangelion: 1.0 You Are

Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone is a captivating and exceptional anime movie directed by Hideaki Anno and Kazuya Tsurumaki. The 2007 release, which stars veteran voice actors Megumi Ogata, Megumi Hayashibara, and Kotono Mitsuishi, was acclaimed by both critics and fans alike, not only in Japan but also internationally. This movie represents a reboot of the original 26-episode anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion, delivering a fresh adaptation with modern animation techniques while still embracing the essence of the original story.

The story kicks off in the recovery phase of a catastrophic event known as Second Impact, which has wiped out half of the Earth's population. Our world is in ruins, turned into a post-apocalyptic landscape, and is continually under threat from strange otherworldly creatures known as Angels.

At the forefront of this story is Shinji Ikari, voiced by Megumi Ogata, a seemingly ordinary teenager with a perpetually melancholic demeanor. Shinji is unceremoniously thrust into the role of Earth's last defense against the extra-terrestrial Angels when he is summoned by his estranged father, Gendo Ikari, who is the cold and mysterious leader of NERV, a special organization formed to combat the menacing Angels.

Our young protagonist, alongside his comrades at NERV, must pilot gigantic biomechanical beings known as Evangelions (Evas) into battle against these behemoth invaders. For someone so young, the weight of mankind's survival rests devastatingly heavy on Shinji's shoulders.

Joining Shinji on his daunting path is Rei Ayanami, voiced by Megumi Hayashibara, a withdrawn and enigmatic pilot who serves as a sharp contrast to Shinji's character. Rei's detachment and mysterious aura provide a tantalizing plot element and add to the building intrigue within the movie's narrative. Kotono Mitsuishi voices Misato Katsuragi, a major in the NERV organization who becomes Shinji's defacto guardian and provides a supportive and guiding presence to him.

Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone is more than a stunning display of action-packed sequences and devastating battles. It is a profound exploration of human psychology, dealing with themes of existential dread, loneliness, and the human capacity to endure in the face of despair. The movie masterfully folds deep human emotions and real-world issues into an elaborate science-fiction setting. Each character is allowed a significant emotional arc that elevates them above changeless archetypes. This results in a captivating narrative that retains its relevance and relatability even among apocalyptic scenarios and intense mecha battles.

The art and animation of this movie are stunning. The battles between the Evas and the Angels are executed with exhilarating precision. You can't help but be in awe of these technological titans battling amidst the ruins of a futuristic Tokyo. The grand scale and intensity of these scenes are a testament to the superb animation quality, an enthralling visual spectacle for the viewers. The surreal and horrific designs of the Angel adversaries add an eerie and unsettling aura to the film, keeping the audience enraptured and alert.

These visuals are complemented by stunning sound design. The roar of the Evas, the screeching of the Angels, and the destructive chaos of their battles fully immerse viewers in this apocalyptic world. Moreover, the orchestral soundtrack impeccably strikes emotional chords, intensifying scenes of triumph and despair, while also encapsulating the somber mood permeating the film.

Evangelion: 1.0 You are (Not) Alone is a must-watch for both fans of the original series and newcomers. Delivering on the promise of high-stakes action, complex character relationships, and a narrative depth that wrestles with the inner workings of the human mind, it succeeds at creating an atmosphere where despair intersects with determination. The film reinvigorates the initial series with a contemporary edge, diving into an immense narrative that maintains its relevance even after a decade since its release.