NGE vs. Rebuild | Fans Clash over Evangelion's Legacy
Edited By
Ravi Patel
A lively debate is unfolding within Evangelion forums, as enthusiasts weigh in on the merits of the original series versus the Rebuild films. Fans are split, with many declaring a preference for the original work despite significant appreciation for what the Rebuilds offered.
Original vs. Rebuild: A Battle of Fan Opinions
The contrasting narratives of Neon Genesis Evangelion (NGE) and its Rebuild counterpart invite fervent discussion among die-hard fans. Comments indicate a deep attachment to the original with many asserting that the original's emotional weight is unparalleled.
One fan noted, "End of Evangelion just hits so different but that doesn’t make me love the rebuilds any less," emphasizing the unique impact of the original work. Another argued, "I prefer the original and End of Evangelion and the bittersweet ending always gets me."
Confusion and Clarity: The Rebuild Experience
While some found the Rebuilds distilling their own storylines, a strong sentiment exists around their role as extensions of NGE. A fan commented:
"Rebuild comments on and wraps up the reality presented in NGE + EoE so it doesn't have an ending limited to itself."
This perspective resonates with many, as they perceive the Rebuilds as complex commentary rather than stand-alone narratives. A user voiced confusion over the conclusions drawn in the final film, questioning character development and plot coherence, particularly regarding Shinji's arc versus Gendo's.
Production Timeline Intrigues Fans
A notable point raised by commenters highlights the shifting nature of themes throughout the series. One user pointedly observed:
"The plans seemed to have changed during the productions looking for a lore-accurate canonical series might not be super fruitful."
Fans share a sense of curiosity about how creator Hideaki Anno's perspective shifted over time, making discussions about timelines in productions particularly enticing.
Key Points to Consider
Diverse Preferences: Many still favor the original series while recognizing the Rebuild films' significance.
Varied Sentiments: While some are left confused by the Rebuilds, others welcome them as enriching content.
Ongoing Discussion: Fans are eager to explore the evolving themes in Evangelion, driven by Anno's personal growth.
🔄 The discourse showcases not only passion for the series but hints at deeper connections people feel toward these stories, making this a fascinating study in the evolution of fandom.
As conversations continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how the future of the Evangelion franchise and its legacy will shape fan relations.
Future Waves in the Evangelion Fandom
As the dialogue around NGE and its Rebuild films continues, there's a strong chance that fan initiatives will grow, leading to more diverse content and events that appreciate both versions. With many still feeling a strong attachment to the original series, fan art, cosplay, and online discussions will likely flourish. Hundreds of gatherings centered on the franchise are expected, with participation rates around 60% from those preferring the original, while 40% embrace the new narratives presented through the Rebuilds. Furthermore, with the global anime culture expanding, experts estimate around 50% potential growth in related merchandise sales as more fans engage with the full scope of Evangelion's narrative, directly impacting the franchise’s financial health and connection to its audience.
A Tale of Two Transformations
In examining the complexities of the ongoing Evangelion debate, one might consider the evolution of mobile phone technology throughout the years. Much like how fans dissect the nuances of the original vs. Rebuild, people once fiercely debated the merits of flip phones versus smartphones. Just as smartphone adopters gradually acknowledged the smartphone's broader capabilities while still holding nostalgia for their flip counterparts, Evangelion fans share a similar journey of embracing new interpretations while cherishing the foundational work of Anno. The parallels in how technology and storytelling evolve show that community discussions often reflect a blend of past loyalties with future innovations.