Thus, the theatrical film The End of Evangelion was produced as a direct response. It is simultaneously a sequel, an alternate ending, and a meta-critique of the fans themselves. The "1997 exclusive" refers specifically to the theatrical version released on July 19, 1997 (Episode 25': "Air") and August 13, 1997 (Episode 26': "Sincerely Yours").
Most "chosen one" stories end with the protagonist finding inner strength. Shinji, however, spends much of the film in a state of moral and emotional paralysis. It is a raw, uncomfortable, and deeply honest depiction of clinical depression. neon genesis evangelion the end of evangelion 1997 exclusive
But The End of Evangelion is the wound. Raw. Open. Bleeding. Thus, the theatrical film The End of Evangelion
Let’s get one thing straight: The End of Evangelion is not a film. It is a 87-minute psychological war crime. It is a flaming sword thrown at the gates of escapism. And it is, without question, the most uncompromising vision of human connection ever committed to celluloid. Most "chosen one" stories end with the protagonist
Anno famously included shots of the theater audience and fan mail, turning the camera back on the viewers who demanded a more "concrete" ending. The Exclusive Legacy