In a recent interview with Yahoo Japan, Neon Genesis Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno stated he is currently working on the fourth Rebuild Of Evangelion film, fresh off directing Shin Godzilla (aka Godzilla: Resurgence).
Though most of the interview focused on all things Godzilla, when asked about the long-delayed final installment of the Rebuild of Evangelion series, Anno responded, “I’ll work hard [on it]. I mean, I’m already working hard [on it].” Obviously, translation and tone make it hard to parse out any subtext here, but doesn’t this sound a bit like what you’d tell your mom about that school project you haven’t started yet? (Thanks to Kotaku for the translation.)
In the interview, Anno brushed off the notion of helming another Godzilla film, telling Yahoo, “that’s not something I decide. Ask Toho.” He then added, “I’ve had enough.” Still, given the film’s success in Japan, it’s likely Toho could approach him for the job in the future.
Back in July, Anno apologized to Eva fans for the long wait for the fourth Rebuild film. In addition to devoting much of his time to Shin Godzilla, Anno said the experience of making Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo was especially draining on a personal level. “After doing the third entry [...] I thought I wasn’t going to make any more,” he said. “I went into talks with Toho [about Godzilla], and it saved me. I think this is how I’m able to keep making Evangelion. However, since it is a fact that I’m making everyone wait, I deeply apologize for that.” The Evangelion series, and the character of Shinji in particular, was partly inspired by Anno’s battle with depression.
Anno didn’t hint toward a release date (or even a release window) for Evangelion 3.0 + 1.0, but it’s heartening to hear he’s back to work on the project at last, if perhaps reluctantly so.
What do you think of the Rebuild of Evangelion films, compared to the original anime? What would you like to see happen in Evangelion 3.0 + 1.0? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.
