The Evangelion fandom remains sharply divided over a newcomer’s place in the recent films. Many fans are questioning the character's significance, with heated discussions unfolding online.
In various forums, a strong sentiment has emerged that the character fails to integrate meaningfully into the original narrative. "It's hard to even call her a character," one comment stressed, echoing a broader feeling that her design may be more appealing than her storytelling depth.
Frustration Over Character Development
Fans continue to express disappointment in the character's lack of backstory and depth. "Her presence feels more like a fan-created original character than an essential part of the story," a contributor pointed out. Several commenters noted, "She doesn't add much but honestly she doesn’t really subtract from anything either—she’s a welcome new addition."
Others suggested that her execution suffers due to limited runtime, proposing that had the film been longer, she could have effectively balanced out the darker themes presented by the original cast. One fan speculated, "With another 26 episodes, she could easily have been a significant character."
Interestingly, some supporters defend the character's place in the narrative. A fan argued, "Mari represents a new door opening for character dynamics, helping Shinji grow in ways the original series didn’t."
Merchandising or Meaning?
A recurring theme in this debate is the perceived soullessness behind the character's introduction, fueling accusations of a marketing gimmick. "She’s not a character; she’s a merchandising scheme," lamented one fan, reflecting a common frustration that character development took a backseat to selling merchandise.
However, many voice a different perspective, highlighting her positive traits, like being comfortable with her sexuality, providing a contrast to the struggles faced by existing characters. "It appears as if Mari is Anno's way of offering a healthier mold for his characters," one comment read, noting her potential to rejuvenate the series.
"This character was built up in all the advertising but barely does anything."
Community Reflections
The fandom's response encompasses a mixture of disappointment and cautious optimism. While many criticize her lack of narrative weight, there are voices suggesting that future installments might address these concerns, potentially enhancing her narrative role.
△ Many fans view the character as an empty vessel lacking meaningful integration.
▽ Some appreciate the character as a refreshing addition, with potential for deeper future storytelling.
※ "She had so much potential to be a good character" - A fan lamenting lost opportunities.
As the community voices their opinions, it remains uncertain whether the creators will adapt the character's role. For Evangelion fans, the ongoing discussions present a chance to analyze character significance and narrative integrity, leaving an open question about the future direction of the film series. Will the creators respond to this discontent, or is the character fated to linger as a point of controversy?