Neon Genesis Evangelion

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-Neon Genesis Evangelion (新世紀エヴァンゲリオン Shin Seiki Evangelion) is a series produced by GAINAX which aired from October 1995 to March 1996. It is an extremely influential and popular anime, so much that new merchandise is still being created over ten years after its original release. +Neon Genesis Evangelion (新世紀エヴァンゲリオン Shin Seiki Evangelion) is a series produced by GAINAX which aired from October 1995 to March 1996. It is an extremely influential and popular anime, so much that new merchandise is still being created over ten years after its original release. It is also the cause of much controversy, due to its often cryptic, ambiguous nature which generally leaves the viewers to form their own conclusions about the meaning or outcome of various events. Another controversial aspect is the use of Judeo-Christian names and imagery.
 +<br>It is an apocalyptic [[mecha]] series, featuring a mysterious organization known as [[Organizations in Neon Genesis Evangelion | Nerv]] and its efforts to defeat the assailants known only as the [[Angels (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Angels]]. However, the series tends to focus upon the relationships and psychological states of the characters, and features many scenes specifically directed toward psychoanalysis of said characters.
==Plot== ==Plot==
{{Spoiler}} {{Spoiler}}
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==Characters== ==Characters==
[[Image:Shinji_Eva.jpg|thumb|Shinji Ikari]] [[Image:Shinji_Eva.jpg|thumb|Shinji Ikari]]
-;[[Shinji Ikari]] (碇シンジ Ikari Shinji):+;[[Shinji Ikari (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Shinji Ikari]] (碇シンジ Ikari Shinji):
;Voice: [[Megumi Ogata]] (Japanese)<br>[[Spike Spencer]] (English) ;Voice: [[Megumi Ogata]] (Japanese)<br>[[Spike Spencer]] (English)
;Birthdate: June 6, 2001 ;Birthdate: June 6, 2001
-Shinji is the protagonist of Neon Genesis Evangelion. He is the Third Children and the sole pilot of Evangelion Unit 01. He is very introverted, and therefore has difficulty communicating with and relating to other people. Shinji does not have much (if any) self-worth, and is frequently depressed throughout the series. This likely stems from being abandoned by his father, Gendo Ikari, as a very young child, after his mother's disappearance. After ten years of estrangement, Gendo suddenly summons Shinji to NERV, in order to have Shinji become an Evangelion pilot. With reluctance, he accepts, and eventually ends up living in Tokyo-3, with Misato Katsuragi as his guardian.+Shinji is the protagonist of Neon Genesis Evangelion. He is the Third Children and the sole pilot of EVA-01. He is very introverted, and therefore has difficulty communicating with and relating to other people. Shinji does not have much (if any) self-worth, and is frequently depressed throughout the series. This likely stems from being abandoned by his father, Gendo Ikari, as a very young child, after his mother's disappearance. After ten years of estrangement, Gendo suddenly summons Shinji to Nerv, in order to have Shinji become an Evangelion pilot. With reluctance, he accepts, and eventually ends up living in Tokyo-3, with Misato Katsuragi as his guardian.
[[Image:Rei_Eva.jpg|thumb|Rei Ayanami]] [[Image:Rei_Eva.jpg|thumb|Rei Ayanami]]
-;[[Rei Ayanami]] (綾波レイ Ayanami Rei):+;[[Rei Ayanami (Neon Genesis Evangelion)| Rei Ayanami]] (綾波レイ Ayanami Rei):
;Voice: [[Megumi Hayashibara]] (Japanese)<br>[[Amanda Winn-Lee]] (English) ;Voice: [[Megumi Hayashibara]] (Japanese)<br>[[Amanda Winn-Lee]] (English)
;Birthdate: Unknown ;Birthdate: Unknown
-Rei is the pilot of Evangelion Unit 00. She has received pilot training since the project's beginning, and therefore she is known as the First Children. She is a very enigmatic, isolated person. Rei is extremely introverted and aloof, even more so than Shinji, with her only apparent relationship being with Gendo Ikari, although at one point, Rei remarks to Shinji that she "doesn't know what kind of person he (Gendo) is". Rei does not seem to value her existence much either, but for entirely different reasons than Shinji.+Rei is the pilot of EVA-00. She has received pilot training since the project's beginning, and therefore she is known as the First Children. She is a very enigmatic, isolated person. Rei is extremely introverted and aloof, even more so than Shinji, with her only apparent relationship being with Gendo Ikari, although at one point, Rei remarks to Shinji that she "doesn't know what kind of person he (Gendo) is". Rei does not seem to value her existence much either, but for entirely different reasons than Shinji.
[[Image:Asuka_Eva.jpg|thumb|Asuka Langley Sohryu]] [[Image:Asuka_Eva.jpg|thumb|Asuka Langley Sohryu]]
-;[[Asuka Langley Sohryu]] (惣流・アスカ・ラングレー Souryuu Asuka Ranguree):+;[[Asuka Langley Sohryu (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Asuka Langley Sohryu]] (惣流・アスカ・ラングレー Souryuu Asuka Ranguree):
;Voice: [[Yuuko Miyamura]] (Japanese)<br>[[Tiffany Grant]] (English) ;Voice: [[Yuuko Miyamura]] (Japanese)<br>[[Tiffany Grant]] (English)
;Birthdate: December 4, 2001 ;Birthdate: December 4, 2001
-Asuka is the first pilot of Evangelion Unit 02, and the Second Children. She is of mixed decent, being only one-quarter Japanese, and three-quarters European, which explains her very non-Japanese appearance. In a severe contrast to the Evangelion pilots introduced before her, Shinji and Rei, Asuka appears to be a very strong, extroverted, arrogant, and fiercely independent person. However, this is a façade, behind which Asuka hides her truly vulnerable, insecure self, and a traumatic past. Perhaps because of this internal conflict, Asuka has a very volatile temperament, and is frequently verbally abusive, particularly to Shinji. She is the second Evangelion pilot to move into Misato's apartment.+Asuka is the first pilot of EVA-02, and the Second Children. She is of mixed decent, being only one-quarter Japanese, one-quarter German, and one half never specified, but presumably Caucasian, explaining her very non-Japanese appearance. In a severe contrast to the Evangelion pilots introduced before her, Shinji and Rei, Asuka appears to be a very strong, extroverted, arrogant, and fiercely independent person. However, this is a façade, behind which Asuka hides her truly vulnerable, insecure self, and a traumatic past. Perhaps because of this internal conflict, Asuka has a very volatile temperament, and is frequently verbally abusive, particularly to Shinji. She is the second Evangelion pilot to move into Misato's apartment.
-;[[Misato Katsuragi]] (葛城ミサト Katsuragi Misato): +;[[Misato Katsuragi (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Misato Katsuragi]] (葛城ミサト Katsuragi Misato):
;Voice: [[Kotono Mitsuishi]] (Japanese) <br> [[Allison Keith]] (English) ;Voice: [[Kotono Mitsuishi]] (Japanese) <br> [[Allison Keith]] (English)
;Birthdate: December 8, 1986 ;Birthdate: December 8, 1986
-Misato is the chief operations officer at NERV, initially with the ranking of Captain, though later she is promoted to Major. She is very capable and professional in her work. This is severely contrasted by her behavior at home: Upon Shinji's arrival, Misato's house could not, in any way, be described as "tidy". She is also quite a drunkard, both starting and ending the day with a can of beer. She seems to be a lighthearted, cheerful person, but this is simply a defense mechanism used to run away from anything that appears to be developing into more than a surface relationship. Consistent with the dissonance of the rest of Misato's character, the loneliness caused by this defense mechanism causes her to take others under her metaphorical wing (Pen², Shinji, Asuka).+Misato is the chief operations officer at Nerv, initially with the ranking of Captain, though later she is promoted to Major. She is very capable and professional in her work. This is severely contrasted by her behavior at home: Upon Shinji's arrival, Misato's house could not, in any way, be described as "tidy". She is also quite a drunkard, both starting and ending the day with a can of beer. She seems to be a lighthearted, cheerful person, but this is simply a defense mechanism used to run away from anything that appears to be developing into more than a surface relationship. Consistent with the dissonance of the rest of Misato's character, the loneliness caused by this defense mechanism causes her to take others under her metaphorical wing (Pen², Shinji, Asuka).
-;[[Gendo Ikari]] (碇ゲンドウ Ikari Gendou): +;[[Gendo Ikari (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Gendo Ikari]] (碇ゲンドウ Ikari Gendou):
;Voice: [[Fumihiko Tachiki]] (Japanese)<br>[[Tristan MacAvery]] (English series and movies), [[John Swasey]] (English "Director's Cut" episodes) ;Voice: [[Fumihiko Tachiki]] (Japanese)<br>[[Tristan MacAvery]] (English series and movies), [[John Swasey]] (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
-Gendo is the commander of NERV. He is responsible for the research on the Evangelion units and the Human Instrumentality Project. Gendo is portrayed as a ruthless, yet brilliant scientist and politician, who will do anything to achieve his goals, even if this means treating people like objects, or even destroying the world as we know it. He is also the father of Shinji Ikari, but they have a strained relationship at best, as Gendo abandoned Shinji at a young age. Little is known about his background and personality. However, one thing that is made clear is his very strong emotional connection with the deceased Yui Ikari, which is perhaps his most significant motivator.+Gendo is the commander of Nerv. He is responsible for the research on the Evangelion units and the Human Instrumentality Project. Gendo is portrayed as a ruthless, yet brilliant scientist and politician, who will do anything to achieve his goals, even if this means treating people like objects, or even destroying the world as we know it. He is also the father of Shinji Ikari, but they have a strained relationship at best, as Gendo abandoned Shinji at a young age. Little is known about his background and personality. However, one thing that is made clear is his very strong emotional connection with the deceased Yui Ikari, which is perhaps his most significant motivator.
-;[[Ritsuko Akagi]](赤木リツコ Akagi Ritsuko): +;[[Ritsuko Akagi (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Ritsuko Akagi]](赤木リツコ Akagi Ritsuko):
;Voice: [[Yuriko Yamaguchi]] (Japanese)<br>[[Sue Ulu]] (English) ;Voice: [[Yuriko Yamaguchi]] (Japanese)<br>[[Sue Ulu]] (English)
;Birthdate: November 21, 1985 ;Birthdate: November 21, 1985
-Ritsuko is NERV's head scientist. Apart from Gendo and Fuyutsuki, she knows the most information about the Evangelion units, the Human Instrumentality Project, and the true nature of Rei Ayanami. Ritsuko is primarily in charge of the trio of supercomputers known as the MAGI, as well as being heavily involved in maintaining and repairing Tokyo-3's defense systems against the Angels. Ritsuko is very intelligent and pragmatic, and generally quite willing to sacrifice the lives of the Evangelion pilots, much to Misato's indignation. Ironically, despite her negative feelings toward her mother, Naoko Akagi, Ritsuko seems to be following in Naoko's footsteps in just about every way possible. Ritsuko has been friends with Misato since their college days, although as the series progresses and Misato learns more about NERV, this quickly dissolves.+Ritsuko is Nerv's head scientist. Apart from Gendo and Fuyutsuki, she knows the most information about the Evangelion units, the Human Instrumentality Project, and the true nature of Rei Ayanami. Ritsuko is primarily in charge of the trio of supercomputers known as the Magi, as well as being heavily involved in maintaining and repairing Tokyo-3's defense systems against the Angels. Ritsuko is very intelligent and pragmatic, and generally quite willing to sacrifice the lives of the Evangelion pilots, much to Misato's indignation. Ironically, despite her negative feelings toward her mother, Naoko Akagi, Ritsuko seems to be following in Naoko's footsteps in just about every way possible. Ritsuko has been friends with Misato since their college days, although as the series progresses and Misato learns more about Nerv, this quickly dissolves.
-;[[Ryohji Kaji]] (加持リョウジ Kaji Ryouji):+;[[Ryoji Kaji (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Ryoji Kaji]] (加持リョウジ Kaji Ryouji):
;Voice: [[Kouichi Yamadera]] (Japanese)<br>[[Aaron Krohn]] (English) ;Voice: [[Kouichi Yamadera]] (Japanese)<br>[[Aaron Krohn]] (English)
;Birthdate: June 17, 1985 ;Birthdate: June 17, 1985
-Kaji is a special inspector for NERV, while at the same time being employed by the Japanese government to investigate NERV, as well as being used as a cat's-paw by both NERV and SEELE. It seems that his true loyalties do not adhere to any organization, but only in his desire to "find the truth". While Ryohji is his first name, everyone, even the people he is closest with, refers to him by his surname, Kaji. Kaji is a detached, easy-going, friendly person, who flirts indiscriminately with almost every female he comes across, and he seems to maintain this attitude even in times of crisis. Although these traits cause him to appear to be just an irresponsible, comic-relief character, he has a more serious side which appears on occasion.+Kaji is a special inspector for Nerv, while at the same time being employed by the Japanese government to investigate Nerv, as well as being used as a cat's-paw by both Nerv and Seele. It seems that his true loyalties do not adhere to any organization, but only in his desire to "find the truth". While Ryoji is his first name, everyone, even the people he is closest with, refers to him by his surname, Kaji. Kaji is a detached, easy-going, friendly person, who flirts indiscriminately with almost every female he comes across, and he seems to maintain this attitude even in times of crisis. Although these traits cause him to appear to be just an irresponsible, comic-relief character, he has a more serious side which appears on occasion.
-;[[Toji Suzuhara]] (鈴原トウジ Suzuhara Touji):+;[[Toji Suzuhara (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Toji Suzuhara]] (鈴原トウジ Suzuhara Touji):
;Voice: [[Tomokazu Seki]] (Japanese)<br>[[Brett Weaver]], [[Joe Pisano]], [[Michael O'Connor]] (English) ;Voice: [[Tomokazu Seki]] (Japanese)<br>[[Brett Weaver]], [[Joe Pisano]], [[Michael O'Connor]] (English)
;Birthdate: December 26, 2001 ;Birthdate: December 26, 2001
-Toji is brash, hotheaded, and somewhat of a delinquent (toward school, anyway). Originally from the Osaka region, he speaks with the [[kansai-ben | associated dialect]]. He is one of Shinji's classmates. At first, Toji has much animosity toward Shinji, since his younger sister was seriously injured in Unit-01's first battle due to what Toji perceived as the pilot's clumsiness. However, due to events which lead to Toji witnessing the amount of mental strain the pilot is subjected to during battles, Toji develops sympathy toward Shinji, and they become friends.+Toji is brash, hotheaded, and somewhat of a delinquent (toward school, anyway). Originally from the Osaka region, he speaks with the [[kansai-ben | associated dialect]]. He is one of Shinji's classmates. At first, Toji has much animosity toward Shinji, since his younger sister was seriously injured in EVA-01's first battle due to what Toji perceived as the pilot's clumsiness. However, due to events which lead to Toji witnessing the amount of mental strain the pilot is subjected to during battles, Toji develops sympathy toward Shinji, and they become friends.
-;[[Kōzō Fuyutsuki]] (冬月コウゾウ Fuyutsuki Kouzou):+;[[Kozo Fuyutsuki (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Kozo Fuyutsuki]] (冬月コウゾウ Fuyutsuki Kouzou):
;Voice: [[Motomu Kiyokawa]] (Japanese)<br>[[Guil Lunde]] (English series), [[Michael Ross]] (English movies) ;Voice: [[Motomu Kiyokawa]] (Japanese)<br>[[Guil Lunde]] (English series), [[Michael Ross]] (English movies)
;Birthdate: April 9, 1956 ;Birthdate: April 9, 1956
-Fuyutsuki is second-in-command at NERV, and often temporarily takes charge when Gendo is absent or otherwise unavailable. Although he is most commonly seen in the company of Gendo, Fuyutsuki does not particularly like Gendo, and their relationship is one of convenience. Fuyutsuki was originally a professor of metaphysical biology at Kyoto University. It was there that he met Yui Ikari, a young bioengineering student. While many of the details of their relationship are unclear, it seems that they were rather close, and even spent time with each other outside of school. It was through her that Fuyutsuki met Gendo, and became involved with NERV.+Fuyutsuki is second-in-command at Nerv, and often temporarily takes charge when Gendo is absent or otherwise unavailable. Although he is most commonly seen in the company of Gendo, Fuyutsuki does not particularly like Gendo, and their relationship is one of convenience. Fuyutsuki was originally a professor of metaphysical biology at Kyoto University. It was there that he met Yui Ikari, a young bioengineering student. While many of the details of their relationship are unclear, it seems that they were rather close, and even spent time with each other outside of school. It was through her that Fuyutsuki met Gendo, and became involved with Nerv.
-;[[Makoto Hyuga]] (日向マコト Hyuuga Makoto)+;[[Makoto Hyuga (Neon Genesis Evangelion)| Makoto Hyuga]] (日向マコト Hyuuga Makoto)
;Voice: [[Hiro Yuuki]] (Japanese)<br>[[Matt Greenfield]] (English series), [[Keith Burgess]] (English movies) ;Voice: [[Hiro Yuuki]] (Japanese)<br>[[Matt Greenfield]] (English series), [[Keith Burgess]] (English movies)
;Birthdate: February 13 (Year unknown) ;Birthdate: February 13 (Year unknown)
-Hyuga is one of the three main computer technicians at NERV. He is highly skilled at his work, being resourceful, quick-thinking and brave. However, he is also a bit of a nerd, often choosing to read [[manga]] during his breaks One of his most distinguishing traits is his huge attraction to Misato, although he never explicitly acts on this. Even when Misato's relationship with Kaji is rekindled, Hyuga doesn't attempt to interfere, nor does he become (visibly) upset. He seems to be very devoted to Misato, practically jumping at any opportunity to help her.+Hyuga is one of the three main computer technicians at Nerv. He is highly skilled at his work, being resourceful, quick-thinking and brave. However, he is also a bit of a nerd, often choosing to read [[manga]] during his breaks One of his most distinguishing traits is his huge attraction to Misato, although he never explicitly acts on this. Even when Misato's relationship with Kaji is rekindled, Hyuga doesn't attempt to interfere, nor does he become (visibly) upset. He seems to be very devoted to Misato, practically jumping at any opportunity to help her.
-;[[Maya Ibuki]] (伊吹マヤ Ibuki Maya)+;[[Maya Ibuki (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Maya Ibuki]] (伊吹マヤ Ibuki Maya)
;Voice: [[Miki Nagasawa]] (Japanese}<br>[[Kendra Benham]] (English series), [[Amy Seeley]] (English movies), [[Monica Rial]] (English "Director's Cut" episodes) ;Voice: [[Miki Nagasawa]] (Japanese}<br>[[Kendra Benham]] (English series), [[Amy Seeley]] (English movies), [[Monica Rial]] (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
;Birthdate: July 11, 1991 ;Birthdate: July 11, 1991
-Maya is one of the three main computer technicians at NERV. She frequently assists Ritsuko, whom she affectionately refers to as "[[sempai]]", and has a close bond with. Maya is optimistic and cheerful, as well as trusting and faithful. She is also very sensitive, and tends to shy away from or become nauseated by violence. Maya idealizes science and technology+Maya is one of the three main computer technicians at Nerv. She frequently assists Ritsuko, whom she affectionately refers to as "Ritsuko-[[sempai]]" or simply "Sempai", and has a close bond with. Maya is optimistic and cheerful, as well as trusting and faithful. She is also very sensitive, and tends to shy away from or become nauseated by violence. Maya idealizes science and technology very much, perhaps because they were the primary thing that saved the post-Second Impact world she grew up in.
-;[[Shigeru Aoba]] (青葉シゲル Aoba Shigeru)+;[[Shigeru Aoba (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Shigeru Aoba]] (青葉シゲル Aoba Shigeru)
-;[[Kensuke Aida]] (相田ケンスケ Aida Kensuke)+;Voice: [[Takehito Koyasu]] (Japanese)<br>[[Jason C. Lee]] (English series and movies), [[Vic Mignogna]] (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
-;[[Kaworu Nagisa]] (渚 カヲル Nagisa Kaworu)+;Birthdate: May 5 (Year unknown)
-;[[Hikari Horaki]] (洞木ヒカリ Horaki Hikari)+Shigeru Aoba is the last of the three main computer technicians at Nerv. His character is not explored much within the series, so not much is known about him. He is an avid guitar player, and is commonly seen carrying a guitar, reading guitar-related magazines, and even playing air guitar. Aoba also seems to be a bit of a cynic, often scoffing at Maya's extreme faith in technology.
-;[[Naoko Akagi]] (赤木ナオコ Akagi Naoko)+;[[Kensuke Aida (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Kensuke Aida]] (相田ケンスケ Aida Kensuke)
-;[[Yui Ikari]] (碇ユイ Ikari Yui)+;Voice: [[Tetsuya Iwanaga]] (Japanese)<br>[[Kurt Stoll]] (English)
-;[[Kyoko Zeppelin Sohryu]] (惣流・キョウコ・ツェッペリン Souryu Kyouko Tsepperin)+;Birthdate: September 12, 2001
-;[[Pen²]] (ペンペン Penpen)+Kensuke is a classmate of Shinji's, as well as being a friend of both Toji and Shinji. He is a military [[otaku]], and one of his favorite things to do is to go out into the wilderness and stage elaborate war scenarios, all on his own. He desperately wants to become an Evangelion pilot, even after seeing a pilot in action. Kensuke's father works for Nerv, which Kensuke uses to his advantage by hacking into his father's data files. Due to this, he often knows more about the internal workings of Nerv than Shinji. Despite his odd obsession with warfare, Kensuke is portrayed as a gentle, though somewhat nerdy character, sometimes acting as a counter-balance to Toji's often reckless behavior.
 +;[[Kaworu Nagisa (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Kaworu Nagisa]] (渚カヲル Nagisa Kaworu)
 +;Voice: [[Akira Ishida]] (Japanese)<br>[[Kyle Sturdivant]] (English series), [[Aaron Krohn]] (English movies), [[Greg Ayres]] (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
 +;Birthdate: September 13, 2000
 +Kaworu is the Fifth Children, and surrogate pilot of EVA-02. He is a very mysterious person, and quickly becomes very close friends with Shinji.
 +;[[Hikari Horaki (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Hikari Horaki]] (洞木ヒカリ Horaki Hikari)
 +;Voice: [[Junko Iwao]] (Japanese)<br>[[Carol Amerson]] (English)
 +;Birthdate: February 18, 2002
 +Hikari is the [[class representative]] of Class 2-A, which is the same class that all of the Evangelion pilots attend. She adheres very closely to her duties as class rep, and is very strict in making sure that the jobs of the other students are taken care of correctly. When Asuka arrives, she and Hikari quickly become friends. This is possibly the closest friendship that Asuka has within the series.
 +;[[Naoko Akagi (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Naoko Akagi]] (赤木ナオコ Akagi Naoko):
 +;Voice: [[Mika Doi]] (Japanese)<br>[[Laura Chapman]] (English)
 +;Birthdate: Unknown.
 +Naoko Akagi is Ritsuko's deceased mother, and the creator of the Magi supercomputers.
 +;[[Yui Ikari (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Yui Ikari]] (碇ユイ Ikari Yui):
 +;Voice: [[Megumi Hayashibara]] (Japanese)<br>[[Kim Sevier]] (English series), [[Amanda Winn Lee]] (English movies)
 +;Birthdate: March 30, 1977
 +Yui Ikari is Shinji's mother and Gendo's wife. She disappeared during a strange accident in 2004.
 +;[[Kyoko Zeppelin Sohryu (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Kyoko Zeppelin Sohryu]] (惣流・キョウコ・ツェッペリン Souryu Kyouko Tsepperin)
 +;Voice: [[Maria Kawamura]] (Japanese)<br>[[Kimberly Yates]] (English)
 +;Birthdate: 1974 (exact date unknown)
 +Kyoko is Asuka's deceased mother. She worked with the German branch of [[Organizations in Neon Genesis Evangelion | Gehirn]].
 +;[[Pen² (Neon Genesis Evangelion) | Pen²]] (ペンペン Penpen)
 +;Voice: [[Megumi Hayashibara]] (Japanese)<br>[[Amanda Winn Lee]] (English series and movies), [[Mandy Clark]] (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
 +;Birthdate: Unknown.
 +Pen² is Misato's pet, who lives at her apartment. He is a "warm-water penguin", and, according to the manga, a result of genetic engineering. In both the manga and the series, Pen² displays traits that penguins and birds do not normally have, such as his three retractable claws at the end of each wing. He also appears to possessed greatly enhanced intelligence, as he is shown watching television, taking hot baths, and even reading newspapers. Pen² is the [[animal mascot]] of the series, and as such, generally serves as comic relief in many episodes.
==Openings/Endings== ==Openings/Endings==

Revision as of 22:45, 28 July 2008

Neon Genesis Evangelion
新世紀エヴァンゲリオン
(Neon Genesis Evangelion)
Genre Mecha, Apocalyptic/Post-apocalyptic, Psychological Thriller
Anime
Directed by Hideaki Anno
Animation by Suzuki Shunji
Takeshi Honda
Shin'ya Hasegawa
Music by Shirou Sagisu
Script by Hideaki Anno
Akio Satsukawa
Youji Enokido
Studio Gainax
Tatsunoko Productions
Production I.G
MOVIC
Star Child
Network TV Tokyo
Other networks:
Original run October 4, 1995 – March 27, 1996
No. of episodes 26
Manga
Written byYoshiyuki Sadamoto
PublisherKadokawa Shoten
Original run1995 – ongoing
Volumes11 (currently)
Game: Koutetsu no Girlfriend
Developer Gainax Network Systems
PublisherBandai
Genre Visual novel
RatingAges 12 and up
Platform Windows
Macintosh
PlayStation
Sega Saturn
PlayStation2
Released February 1998
March 23, 2006
Game: Ayanami Ikusei Keikaku/Ayanami Ikusei Keikaku with Asuka Hokan Keikaku
Developer Gainax/Broccoli
Genre raising sim
RatingAges 13 and up
Platform PC
Playstation2
Nintendo DS
Released April 4, 2001
April 18, 2002
December 11, 2004
August 28, 2008
Game: Koutetsu no Girlfriend 2nd
Developer Gainax Network Systems
PublisherBroccoli
Genre Visual Novel
RatingAges 15 and up
Platform Windows
Macintosh
PlayStation2
Released March 2, 2006
Game: Ikari Shinji Ikusei Keikaku
Developer Gainax
PublisherBroccoli
Genre life simulation
RatingAges 15 and up
Platform PC
Released September 24, 2004
Movies

Neon Genesis Evangelion (新世紀エヴァンゲリオン Shin Seiki Evangelion) is a series produced by GAINAX which aired from October 1995 to March 1996. It is an extremely influential and popular anime, so much that new merchandise is still being created over ten years after its original release. It is also the cause of much controversy, due to its often cryptic, ambiguous nature which generally leaves the viewers to form their own conclusions about the meaning or outcome of various events. Another controversial aspect is the use of Judeo-Christian names and imagery.
It is an apocalyptic mecha series, featuring a mysterious organization known as Nerv and its efforts to defeat the assailants known only as the Angels. However, the series tends to focus upon the relationships and psychological states of the characters, and features many scenes specifically directed toward psychoanalysis of said characters.

Contents

Plot

Spoiler warning: Plot and/or ending details follow.

Episode 1

In the year 2015AD, Shinji is waiting for a mysterious woman named Misato to pick him up when a large monster, referred to as an angel, attacks the city. The defense forces are powerless against it and Shinji is in danger, when the woman appears and takes him to the headquarters of NERV, hidden underneath the city of Tokyo 3. Here his father explains that he wants Shinji to pilot a giant robot called an evangelion to fight the monster and save the earth. The conflicted Shinji refuses at first, but the angel causes damage to the building. The robot activates itself to save Shinji. After seeing the injuries on his substitute he agrees to fight.

Episode 2

Shinji pilots Eva Unit 1 for the first time in his fight against the angel. Damage to the Eva causes Shinji to pass out, waking in the hospital after the battle is over. Higher-ups dicuss the future use of eva's and something called the Human Development Project. When Gendo meets his son again, his disappointment is noticeable. News of the angels becomes public and the city begins preparing for future attacks. Shinji moves in with Misato and Pen Pen. The arc flashes back to the fight. After the Eva is damaged, it goes "beserk" quickly destroying the monster in a terrifying display of power.

Episode 3

Shinji begins to train with unit 1, revealing general information about the machines. Shinji returns to school to find the other pilot, Rei, has also enrolled. In class they go over the history of world since the emergence of the angels. The students find out Shinji is the pilot. While some are excited, others bully him for his mistakes. A second angel arrives. Two of Shinji's classmates sneak out to watch the fight. With Shinji losing badly, the two are forced to take cover in his eva. Shinji gains the courage to finish off the angel and win his classmates' respect.

Episode 4

Shinji has run away. Searching the city for answers, he finds himself outside of the city limits. Misato begins to wondering if Shinji is fit to pilot the eva, thinking back to the lecture she gave him after he disobeyed her orders. Shinji's classmate, Aida finds Shinji wondering the wilderness and they spend some time becoming closer friends. Security forces take Shinji back to NERV. He officially resigns, but changes his mind and stays.

Episode 5

The episode begins with a flashback of a test for an evangelion (unit 0) gone awry. It begins to attack the observation room where Gendo is standing. Instead of caring for his own safety, he pries open the scalding hot door to Rei's entry plug. Shinji begins to wonder about Rei's past. Ritsuko gives Shinji Rei's ID card and an excuse to visit the girl. Rei is not pleased and the two make the uncomfortable trip to NERV. Another angel arrives and Shinji is sent out. The angel attacks before Shinji is ready and blowing a hole through the center of the robot.

Episode 6

Unit 01 has been damaged. With Shinji's life in danger, NERV retracts the Eva and begins to study the angel's attack method. The monster also begins drilling toward NERV's underground headquarters. Katsuragi decides to fire a massive positron sniper rifle requiring all of the energy in Japan. The pilots prepare for the last-minute operation with some hesitation from Shinji. Unit 01 and the angel exnchage fire, resulting in a miss for the first shot. Rei uses a special shield to protect Shinji as he recharges the gun, but her Eva is damaged. Shinji destroys the angel and runs to help Rei. Both of the cildren are ok.

Episode 7

The morning begins uneventfully. Gendo meets with a mysterious man. They discuss the budget for building additional Eva's. Ritsuko explains that the natural disaster known as the second impact was actually a self-desctruction mechanism of the 1st angel before heading to a technology conference where they discuss different ways to build the Evas. A robot not built by NERV and run by nuclear energy short circuits and endangers thousands of lives. Misato volunteers to enter to core and manually disengage the robot. Shinji uses his Eva to get her on and stop the monster. Misato manages to force the cooling system into place, but realizes all of the problems were a set-up. Ristuko tells Gendo the operation was a success.

Episode 8

Misato, Shinji and his classmates fly out to a UN naval fleet to meet the new Eva and its pilot, Asuka, the German second child. Kaji, Asuka's older friend, creates some discomfort for Misato. Asuka decides she and Shinji will defeat the angel with the Unit 02. Kaji seems nervous about the attack and leaves half why through the battle to make a delivery. The angel grabs hold of Unit 02. Misato scuttles two battleships, and uses the Eva's power cable to drag the angel into their guns. Kaji delivers a fetus-like object to Gendo who calls it the first human being, while Shinji and his friends return to school to find Asuka enrolled in their class.

Spoilers end here.

Episode List

Ep # Title (English) Title (Japanese) Angel Attacking
Ep 1 Angel Attack 使徒、襲来 ("Shito, Shūrai") - "Angel Attack" Sachiel
Ep 2 The Beast 見知らぬ、天井 ("Mishiranu Tenjō") - "Unfamiliar Ceiling" None
Ep 3 A transfer 鳴らない、電話 ("Naranai Denwa") - "The Phone That Never Rings" Shamshel
Ep 4 Hedgehog's Dilemma 雨、逃げ出した後 ("Ame, Nigedashita Ato") - "Rain, Escape and Afterwards" None
Ep 5 Rei I レイ、心のむこうに- ("Rei, Kokoro no Mukou ni") - "Rei, Beyond Her Heart" Ramiel
Ep 6 Rei II 決戦、第３新東京市- ("Kessen, Daisan Shin Tōkyō-shi") - "Showdown in Neo Tokyo 3" Ramiel
Ep 7 A Human Work 人の造りしもの- (" Hito no Tsukurishimono") - "The Human Creation" Jet Alone1
Ep 8 Asuka Strikes! アスカ、来日- ("Asuka, Rainichi") - "Asuka Arrives in Japan" Gaghiel
Ep 9 Both of You, Dance Like You Want to Win! 瞬間、心、重ねて- ("Shunkan, Kokoro, Kasanete") - "With One Accord In A Flash" Israfel
Ep 10 Magma Diver マグマダイバー - "Magma Diver" Sandalphon2
Ep 11 The Day Tokyo-3 Stood Still 静止した闇の中で- ("Seishi Shita Yami no Naka de") - "In The Still Darkness" Matarael
Ep 12 She said, "Don't make other suffer for your personal hatred." 奇跡の価値は- ("Kiseki no Kachi wa") - "The Value of a Miracle is..." Sahaquiel
Ep 13 Lilliputian Hitcher 使徒、侵入 ("Shito, Shinnyū") - "Angel Invasion" Ireul3
Ep 14 Weaving A Story ゼーレ、魂の座 ("Seele, Tama no Za") - "Seele, Throne of Souls" Unit 004
Ep 15 Those women longed for the touch of others' lips, and thus invited their kisses. 嘘と沈黙 - ("Uso to Chinmoku") - "Lies and Silence" None
Ep 16 Splitting of the Breast 死に至る病、そして- ("Shi ni Itaru Shitsu, Soshite") - "Sickness Unto Death, And..." Leliel
Ep 17 Forth Child 四人目の適格者- ("Yoninme no Tekikakusha") - "The Fourth Child" None
Ep 18 Ambivalence 命の選択を- ("Inochi no Sentaku o") - "The Judgement of Life" Bardiel5
Ep 19 Introjection 男の戦い- ("Otoko no Tatakai") - "A Man's Fight" Zeruel
Ep 20 Weaving A Story 2: Oral Stage 心のかたち 人のかたち- ("Kokoro no Katachi, Hito no Katachi") - "Form of the Mind, Form of the Man" None
Ep 21 He was aware that he was still a child. ネルフ、誕生- ("NERV, Tanjou") - "The Birth of NERV" None
Ep 22 Don't Be. せめて、人間らしく- ("Semete, Ningen Rashiku") - "At Least, Be Human" Arael
Ep 23 Rei III 涙- ("Namida") - "Tears" Armisael
Ep 24 The Beginning and the End, or "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" 最後のシ者- ("Saigo no Shisha") - "The Final Messenger" None
Ep 25 Do you love me? 終わる世界- ("Owaru Sekai") - "The World Ending" None
Ep 26 Take care of yourself. 世界の中心でアイを叫んだけもの- ("Sekai no Chūshin de 'Ai' o Sakenda Kemono") - "The Beast Who Shouted 'Love' at the Heart of the World" None

Characters

Shinji Ikari
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Shinji Ikari
Shinji Ikari (碇シンジ Ikari Shinji)
Voice
Megumi Ogata (Japanese)
Spike Spencer (English)
Birthdate
June 6, 2001

Shinji is the protagonist of Neon Genesis Evangelion. He is the Third Children and the sole pilot of EVA-01. He is very introverted, and therefore has difficulty communicating with and relating to other people. Shinji does not have much (if any) self-worth, and is frequently depressed throughout the series. This likely stems from being abandoned by his father, Gendo Ikari, as a very young child, after his mother's disappearance. After ten years of estrangement, Gendo suddenly summons Shinji to Nerv, in order to have Shinji become an Evangelion pilot. With reluctance, he accepts, and eventually ends up living in Tokyo-3, with Misato Katsuragi as his guardian.

Rei Ayanami
Enlarge
Rei Ayanami
Rei Ayanami (綾波レイ Ayanami Rei)
Voice
Megumi Hayashibara (Japanese)
Amanda Winn-Lee (English)
Birthdate
Unknown

Rei is the pilot of EVA-00. She has received pilot training since the project's beginning, and therefore she is known as the First Children. She is a very enigmatic, isolated person. Rei is extremely introverted and aloof, even more so than Shinji, with her only apparent relationship being with Gendo Ikari, although at one point, Rei remarks to Shinji that she "doesn't know what kind of person he (Gendo) is". Rei does not seem to value her existence much either, but for entirely different reasons than Shinji.

Asuka Langley Sohryu
Enlarge
Asuka Langley Sohryu
Asuka Langley Sohryu (惣流・アスカ・ラングレー Souryuu Asuka Ranguree)
Voice
Yuuko Miyamura (Japanese)
Tiffany Grant (English)
Birthdate
December 4, 2001

Asuka is the first pilot of EVA-02, and the Second Children. She is of mixed decent, being only one-quarter Japanese, one-quarter German, and one half never specified, but presumably Caucasian, explaining her very non-Japanese appearance. In a severe contrast to the Evangelion pilots introduced before her, Shinji and Rei, Asuka appears to be a very strong, extroverted, arrogant, and fiercely independent person. However, this is a façade, behind which Asuka hides her truly vulnerable, insecure self, and a traumatic past. Perhaps because of this internal conflict, Asuka has a very volatile temperament, and is frequently verbally abusive, particularly to Shinji. She is the second Evangelion pilot to move into Misato's apartment.

Misato Katsuragi (葛城ミサト Katsuragi Misato)
Voice
Kotono Mitsuishi (Japanese)
Allison Keith (English)
Birthdate
December 8, 1986

Misato is the chief operations officer at Nerv, initially with the ranking of Captain, though later she is promoted to Major. She is very capable and professional in her work. This is severely contrasted by her behavior at home: Upon Shinji's arrival, Misato's house could not, in any way, be described as "tidy". She is also quite a drunkard, both starting and ending the day with a can of beer. She seems to be a lighthearted, cheerful person, but this is simply a defense mechanism used to run away from anything that appears to be developing into more than a surface relationship. Consistent with the dissonance of the rest of Misato's character, the loneliness caused by this defense mechanism causes her to take others under her metaphorical wing (Pen², Shinji, Asuka).

Gendo Ikari (碇ゲンドウ Ikari Gendou)
Voice
Fumihiko Tachiki (Japanese)
Tristan MacAvery (English series and movies), John Swasey (English "Director's Cut" episodes)

Gendo is the commander of Nerv. He is responsible for the research on the Evangelion units and the Human Instrumentality Project. Gendo is portrayed as a ruthless, yet brilliant scientist and politician, who will do anything to achieve his goals, even if this means treating people like objects, or even destroying the world as we know it. He is also the father of Shinji Ikari, but they have a strained relationship at best, as Gendo abandoned Shinji at a young age. Little is known about his background and personality. However, one thing that is made clear is his very strong emotional connection with the deceased Yui Ikari, which is perhaps his most significant motivator.

Ritsuko Akagi(赤木リツコ Akagi Ritsuko)
Voice
Yuriko Yamaguchi (Japanese)
Sue Ulu (English)
Birthdate
November 21, 1985

Ritsuko is Nerv's head scientist. Apart from Gendo and Fuyutsuki, she knows the most information about the Evangelion units, the Human Instrumentality Project, and the true nature of Rei Ayanami. Ritsuko is primarily in charge of the trio of supercomputers known as the Magi, as well as being heavily involved in maintaining and repairing Tokyo-3's defense systems against the Angels. Ritsuko is very intelligent and pragmatic, and generally quite willing to sacrifice the lives of the Evangelion pilots, much to Misato's indignation. Ironically, despite her negative feelings toward her mother, Naoko Akagi, Ritsuko seems to be following in Naoko's footsteps in just about every way possible. Ritsuko has been friends with Misato since their college days, although as the series progresses and Misato learns more about Nerv, this quickly dissolves.

Ryoji Kaji (加持リョウジ Kaji Ryouji)
Voice
Kouichi Yamadera (Japanese)
Aaron Krohn (English)
Birthdate
June 17, 1985

Kaji is a special inspector for Nerv, while at the same time being employed by the Japanese government to investigate Nerv, as well as being used as a cat's-paw by both Nerv and Seele. It seems that his true loyalties do not adhere to any organization, but only in his desire to "find the truth". While Ryoji is his first name, everyone, even the people he is closest with, refers to him by his surname, Kaji. Kaji is a detached, easy-going, friendly person, who flirts indiscriminately with almost every female he comes across, and he seems to maintain this attitude even in times of crisis. Although these traits cause him to appear to be just an irresponsible, comic-relief character, he has a more serious side which appears on occasion.

Toji Suzuhara (鈴原トウジ Suzuhara Touji)
Voice
Tomokazu Seki (Japanese)
Brett Weaver, Joe Pisano, Michael O'Connor (English)
Birthdate
December 26, 2001

Toji is brash, hotheaded, and somewhat of a delinquent (toward school, anyway). Originally from the Osaka region, he speaks with the associated dialect. He is one of Shinji's classmates. At first, Toji has much animosity toward Shinji, since his younger sister was seriously injured in EVA-01's first battle due to what Toji perceived as the pilot's clumsiness. However, due to events which lead to Toji witnessing the amount of mental strain the pilot is subjected to during battles, Toji develops sympathy toward Shinji, and they become friends.

Kozo Fuyutsuki (冬月コウゾウ Fuyutsuki Kouzou)
Voice
Motomu Kiyokawa (Japanese)
Guil Lunde (English series), Michael Ross (English movies)
Birthdate
April 9, 1956

Fuyutsuki is second-in-command at Nerv, and often temporarily takes charge when Gendo is absent or otherwise unavailable. Although he is most commonly seen in the company of Gendo, Fuyutsuki does not particularly like Gendo, and their relationship is one of convenience. Fuyutsuki was originally a professor of metaphysical biology at Kyoto University. It was there that he met Yui Ikari, a young bioengineering student. While many of the details of their relationship are unclear, it seems that they were rather close, and even spent time with each other outside of school. It was through her that Fuyutsuki met Gendo, and became involved with Nerv.

Makoto Hyuga (日向マコト Hyuuga Makoto)
Voice
Hiro Yuuki (Japanese)
Matt Greenfield (English series), Keith Burgess (English movies)
Birthdate
February 13 (Year unknown)

Hyuga is one of the three main computer technicians at Nerv. He is highly skilled at his work, being resourceful, quick-thinking and brave. However, he is also a bit of a nerd, often choosing to read manga during his breaks One of his most distinguishing traits is his huge attraction to Misato, although he never explicitly acts on this. Even when Misato's relationship with Kaji is rekindled, Hyuga doesn't attempt to interfere, nor does he become (visibly) upset. He seems to be very devoted to Misato, practically jumping at any opportunity to help her.

Maya Ibuki (伊吹マヤ Ibuki Maya)
Voice
Miki Nagasawa (Japanese}
Kendra Benham (English series), Amy Seeley (English movies), Monica Rial (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
Birthdate
July 11, 1991

Maya is one of the three main computer technicians at Nerv. She frequently assists Ritsuko, whom she affectionately refers to as "Ritsuko-sempai" or simply "Sempai", and has a close bond with. Maya is optimistic and cheerful, as well as trusting and faithful. She is also very sensitive, and tends to shy away from or become nauseated by violence. Maya idealizes science and technology very much, perhaps because they were the primary thing that saved the post-Second Impact world she grew up in.

Shigeru Aoba (青葉シゲル Aoba Shigeru)
Voice
Takehito Koyasu (Japanese)
Jason C. Lee (English series and movies), Vic Mignogna (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
Birthdate
May 5 (Year unknown)

Shigeru Aoba is the last of the three main computer technicians at Nerv. His character is not explored much within the series, so not much is known about him. He is an avid guitar player, and is commonly seen carrying a guitar, reading guitar-related magazines, and even playing air guitar. Aoba also seems to be a bit of a cynic, often scoffing at Maya's extreme faith in technology.

Kensuke Aida (相田ケンスケ Aida Kensuke)
Voice
Tetsuya Iwanaga (Japanese)
Kurt Stoll (English)
Birthdate
September 12, 2001

Kensuke is a classmate of Shinji's, as well as being a friend of both Toji and Shinji. He is a military otaku, and one of his favorite things to do is to go out into the wilderness and stage elaborate war scenarios, all on his own. He desperately wants to become an Evangelion pilot, even after seeing a pilot in action. Kensuke's father works for Nerv, which Kensuke uses to his advantage by hacking into his father's data files. Due to this, he often knows more about the internal workings of Nerv than Shinji. Despite his odd obsession with warfare, Kensuke is portrayed as a gentle, though somewhat nerdy character, sometimes acting as a counter-balance to Toji's often reckless behavior.

Kaworu Nagisa (渚カヲル Nagisa Kaworu)
Voice
Akira Ishida (Japanese)
Kyle Sturdivant (English series), Aaron Krohn (English movies), Greg Ayres (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
Birthdate
September 13, 2000

Kaworu is the Fifth Children, and surrogate pilot of EVA-02. He is a very mysterious person, and quickly becomes very close friends with Shinji.

Hikari Horaki (洞木ヒカリ Horaki Hikari)
Voice
Junko Iwao (Japanese)
Carol Amerson (English)
Birthdate
February 18, 2002

Hikari is the class representative of Class 2-A, which is the same class that all of the Evangelion pilots attend. She adheres very closely to her duties as class rep, and is very strict in making sure that the jobs of the other students are taken care of correctly. When Asuka arrives, she and Hikari quickly become friends. This is possibly the closest friendship that Asuka has within the series.

Naoko Akagi (赤木ナオコ Akagi Naoko)
Voice
Mika Doi (Japanese)
Laura Chapman (English)
Birthdate
Unknown.

Naoko Akagi is Ritsuko's deceased mother, and the creator of the Magi supercomputers.

Yui Ikari (碇ユイ Ikari Yui)
Voice
Megumi Hayashibara (Japanese)
Kim Sevier (English series), Amanda Winn Lee (English movies)
Birthdate
March 30, 1977

Yui Ikari is Shinji's mother and Gendo's wife. She disappeared during a strange accident in 2004.

Kyoko Zeppelin Sohryu (惣流・キョウコ・ツェッペリン Souryu Kyouko Tsepperin)
Voice
Maria Kawamura (Japanese)
Kimberly Yates (English)
Birthdate
1974 (exact date unknown)

Kyoko is Asuka's deceased mother. She worked with the German branch of Gehirn.

Pen² (ペンペン Penpen)
Voice
Megumi Hayashibara (Japanese)
Amanda Winn Lee (English series and movies), Mandy Clark (English "Director's Cut" episodes)
Birthdate
Unknown.

Pen² is Misato's pet, who lives at her apartment. He is a "warm-water penguin", and, according to the manga, a result of genetic engineering. In both the manga and the series, Pen² displays traits that penguins and birds do not normally have, such as his three retractable claws at the end of each wing. He also appears to possessed greatly enhanced intelligence, as he is shown watching television, taking hot baths, and even reading newspapers. Pen² is the animal mascot of the series, and as such, generally serves as comic relief in many episodes.

Openings/Endings

  • Opening: Cruel Angel's Thesis [1] (lyrics) from Anime Lyrics's Search Engine
  • Ending: Fly Me to the Moon [2] (lyrics) from Anime Lyrics's Search Engine

Links

Retrieved from "http://animepedia.com/Neon_Genesis_Evangelion"
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