The anime series of “Neon Genesis Evangelion” had an ending that divided fans. Passions were so high that even death threats were sent in response to the finale. In 1997, “The End Of Evangelion” set out to offer an alternative ending. With a bigger budget, we get more action and more spectacular visuals. We also got even darker themes than were explored in the series. This is not a good place for those unfamiliar with the series to start.

After defeating the last of the ‘Angels’, Shinji Ikari and the other pilots of the giant mechs find their base under attack. It is revealed that the next step in the evolution of humanity is about to take place. As things progress, Shinji falls increasingly into despair as he struggles to find reasons to justify his existence. The fate of the world hangs in the balance in this disturbing conclusion to the saga.

If you thought the show pushed the characters to their limit, “End Of Evangelion” somehow goes even further. The pressure on Shinji becomes truly crippling. Asuka is also determined to prove herself in one of the most thrilling action sequences in the franchise. Some of the designs of the characters and their bizarre forms are quite unsettling at times. The animation on the characters is terrific.

I enjoyed the ending of the show but I also like this darker ending. I don’t want to spoil anything but I think this ending is a little more consistent with the tone of the series. This film turns into a nightmarish hellscape filled with religious imagery. I can see many people hating this film but for fans of the series, this is a satisfying end. It almost feels like “Akira” meets “2001: A Space Odyssey”. Like the show, “End Of Evangelion” doesn’t always make sense but it pulls you into its world of madness.