Neon Genesis Evangelion and Its Films Coming to Criterion Channel on September 1
One of the landmarks of the anime world, Neon Genesis Evangelion, is joining the Criterion Channel library on September 1 in a long-awaited digital move. This release, licensed by GKIDS, includes not only the original 1995 TV series but also the films Evangelion: Death (True)² and The End of Evangelion. These three works are considered the cornerstone of the Evangelion universe.
Created by Hideaki Anno, this work fundamentally changed the mecha genre when it premiered in 1995, becoming one of the most complex and impactful works in anime history with its deep psychological themes, religious symbolism, and existential questions. The End of Evangelion (1997), which followed the original series, offered an alternate ending and sparked years of debate among fans. The version added to Criterion Channel, along with the compilation Death (True)², promises a comprehensive experience that complements the series' story.
This move once again demonstrates the importance Criterion Channel places on anime content. Having previously brought Akira, Ghost in the Shell, and some Studio Ghibli masterpieces to the platform, Criterion now offers subscribers one of the most respected works in the anime canon with Evangelion. GKIDS, in recent years, has played a significant role in the industry by reviving classics like Evangelion both in theaters and on digital platforms. The series, especially brought back into the spotlight with the 2021 film Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, is also being discovered by a new generation of viewers.
As of September 1, Criterion Channel subscribers will be able to access these unique works with original Japanese audio and English subtitle options. Compared to the previously released version on Netflix, the Criterion Channel version is noted to potentially differ in image quality and extra content. For Evangelion fans, this offers an opportunity to reassess the series' cultural impact in a broader context, while for new viewers, it's the perfect time to dive into this complex yet fascinating masterpiece of anime history.
