Fans of the original Neon Genesis Evangelion can rejoice, as the series’ climactic movie ending, End of Evangelion, is making its American theatrical debut– almost 27 years after its original release in Japan. While the movie has been released on home video and streaming before, this release marks the film’s first appearance in select theaters across the US.
The film, which is seeing a limited release from GKIDS, will be screened on March 17 and March 20, 2024, in theaters nationwide. The screening will be of the original Japanese version with English subtitles, something likely to be welcomed by long-time fans of the series.
While other Evangelion films, particularly the Rebuild of Evangelion tetralogy, have already hit theaters, it can be shocking to realize what was arguably the first Evangelion movie (it was proceeded by a compilation film, Death and Rebirth, recapping the series) has never actually been screened for audiences in America.
End of Evangelion Provides Essential Context to the Series
End of Evangelion Was Created By Hideaki Anno & Studio Gainax
Upon ending, the original Neon Genesis Evangelion anime received some degree of backlash for its bizarre ending, with the last two episodes comprised of soliloquy and introspection rather than climactic giant robot action. End of Evangelion was conceived as an alternate retelling of these two final episodes, and as such is split into two parts: Episode 25′ and Episode 26′. While the series’ ending revolved around the inner thoughts and fears of the characters, the End of Evangelion version finally offered the action-packed climax many fans were hoping for.
That’s not to say that End of Evangelion completely replaces the original ending, however. The two endings are meant to take place in tandem, as is hinted at by flashes of reality seen in the original episodes 25 and 26, which were expanded into full scenes in the movie. End of Evangelion itself has plenty of strange and confusing imagery in it, which might leave some viewers just as confused as they were with the original ending. Watching both endings is generally recommended by fans, providing a clearer picture of events.
End of Evangelion Coming to American Theaters Cements its Legacy
End of Evangelion was not only satisfying for fans, but became beloved by critics as well, who found the dark themes and unique visuals compelling. The movie holds a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes, which is especially impressive considering this is its first theatrical release. Fans should be aware that the film contains some disturbing content, both violent and sexual in nature, although those who’ve seen the series should be fairly well-prepared. With only two nights in theaters, fans need to act fast if they want to seize this opportunity to see Neon Genesis Evangelion‘s big ending on the silver screen.
Look for End of Evangelion when it releases in theaters on March 20th!
