Plot: What’s it about?
The year 2015 finds mankind a broken species, with only a few scattered remnants left and the survivors haven’t fared too well. Those who have remained alive inhabit underground cities, hiding from the attackers and in some cases, making plans on how to battle back and just maybe win back their homeworld. The invasion was by a group known as the Angels and while not a lot is known about them, it is obvious they’re a threat and unless a plan is enacted, the will conquer Earth and leave mankind as a distant memory. As hopeless as the situation sounds, the world does have a glimmer of hope, thanks to a team known as the Evangelions. This band of warriors isn’t made up of normal fighters, but instead, a force of massive bio-mechanical robotic behemoths, ones which just might be able to overcome the Angels. In fact, the Evangelions are the sole chance to even fight back, as nothing else can withstand the defense mechanisms of the Angels, let alone long enough to do some damage. As the battles rage on, the group behind the Evangelions, NERV is trying to uncover more information about the Angels, information on how to weaken, attack, and in the end, defeat these invaders. With the fate of mankind hanging in the balance, these forces will do whatever it takes to triumph, but which side will emerge victorious?
This is one of those anime series that has amassed a massive fanbase, thanks to its complex storyline, well developed characters, and solid visuals. After you’ve watched all the episodes in this collection, its easy to see why Neon Genesis Evangelion has become so popular, though you do need to experience the entire series. It starts off well enough, then tapers off, then picks up a lot of steam, and then barrels toward the finale, much like you’d want from a series with this many episodes, I would assume. So yes, it has slows parts and some pieces don’t fit together until later on in this series, but it all works and comes together in terrific fashion. The story is a superb one and while the premise isn’t that original, the details remain unique and the plot movements are well crafted, so it never seems like rehashed material. I do think the visuals are a little on the average side, but for when it was made, Neon Genesis Evangelion looks solid enough. I think some more vivid colors, smoother animation, and detailed visuals would have enhanced the series, but when you’re watching, it won’t even cross your mind. I highly recommend this series to anime fans, especially since ADV Films has released this complete Perfect Collection.
ADV Films had already issued all nine volumes of Neon Genesis Evangelion, but in this Perfect Collection, you can nab them all in one motion. You’ll find all nine discs tucked into a gorgeous slipcover that has immense visual flair, with a deep black base and etched text & images, simply a beautiful example of how well this kind of package can be done. Even if you’re not an anime fan, this kind of visual excellent is certain to grab your attention from the shelves, as it looks awesome and stands out from other releases. But aside from the case, you have no real reason to purchase this collection if you’re already an owner of the series. This could be good news, as there’s no exclusive content for buyers of the collection, but then again, some additional extras or what not would have been nice, regardless. So if you’re already an owner of the series, its up to you to decide if the beautiful box is reason to start over, but for those who have waited, this is one collection that comes close to its namesake, as it is close to perfect. I can’t recommend this series enough and by turn, this Perfect Collection is a more than worthwhile purchase.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in full frame, as intended. Although this series doesn’t look as impressive as some more recent anime releases, the episodes look very good and for the material, you can’t ask for much else. I saw minimal color errors and compression flaws were absent, which makes for a clean, sharp overall presentation. The colors come across in bright form, but lack the richness and depth I had expected, but again, the hues do look natural and consistent, so no need to storm the gates here. No problems in terms of contrast, as black levels shine and never falter, which means detail is good throughout. All in all, an above average visual effort than should delight fans, which is what counts here.
Audio: How does it sound?
The episodes are presented in full frame, as intended. Although this series doesn’t look as impressive as some more recent anime releases, the episodes look very good and for the material, you can’t ask for much else. I saw minimal color errors and compression flaws were absent, which makes for a clean, sharp overall presentation. The colors come across in bright form, but lack the richness and depth I had expected, but again, the hues do look natural and consistent, so no need to storm the gates here. No problems in terms of contrast, as black levels shine and never falter, which means detail is good throughout. All in all, an above average visual effort than should delight fans, which is what counts here.
Supplements: What are the extras?
All of the discs are home to unique character profiles, which take a close look at the various personalities within the show’s world. I wish some textless credit sequences or talent interviews were included, but no such luck.
