Evangelion 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone review

2007’s Evangelion 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone was an ambitious retelling of the first six episodes of Neon Genesis Evangelion. Intended for both lapsed fans as well as newcomers, the 98-minute theatrical film delivered the sheen of modern animation as well as reworked the series’ narrative beats, all under the vigilant supervision of Evangelion’s creator, Hideaki Anno.

For dedicated devotees of Anno’s universe, the film’s most immediate draw was the stunning technical upgrade. Here, backgrounds shimmered with freshly drawn cityscapes, while the mighty Evas and Angels were rendered with realistic weight and moved with fluidity. Meanwhile, the incorporation of CG contributed a sense of scale that was absent from the original 1995 series. While purists might scoff at the incorporation of digital effects layered over analog artistry, the battle sequences gave the film a visual punch that still impresses.

With the Blu-ray release of Evangelion 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone, these Angel confrontations remain a pulse-accelerating highlight, now presented in pristine high definition that heightens every explosive clash and quiet moment of introspection. Beyond the spectacle, however, it’s the film’s emotional resonance, underscored by Hikaru Utada’s end theme, “Beautiful World”, that endures. Even as the visuals dazzle, 1.11 reminds us that beneath the steel and circuitry lies a profoundly human story of isolation, connection, and the fragile hope that defines Anno’s world.

Where 1.11 succeeds most is in how it condenses the early arc of the original series without sacrificing emotional weight. From Shinji Ikari’s unenthusiastic arrival at NERV, his uneasy bond with Rei Ayanami, and the encumbering expectations of his father all receive tauter pacing and some newfound perspectives. For better or worse, the restructured storyline trims some of the rambling introspection of the TV show, replacing it with a palpable urgency suited for film. Yet, it’s Anno’s partiality for quiet, lingering moments, like the hum of an elevator or the austere lighting of a hospital room that remains intact, grounding the film’s spectacle.

The Blu-ray’s remastered transfer and lossless audio mix make the film’s audiovisual impact even more pronounced. From the roar of an Evangelion’s activation sequence, the signature shriek of an Angel’s assault, to Shirō Sagisu’s rich orchestral score, the film’s aesthetics all benefit from the format’s clarity. Colors snap with a vibrancy, especially in scenes set within Tokyo-3’s glowing skyline and the red-streaked chaos of mechanized battle. This release not only preserves Anno’s theatrical releases but augments it with a cut that extended three minutes longer. Beyond a 16-page booklet, you’ll also find an array of bonus features that range from theatrical teasers, television spots, and the Angel of Doom music video. Sadly, Hikaru’s music video didn’t make the cut.

Yes, for all of its strengths and shrewd alterations, some of 1.11’d decisions might prove contentious. Those familiar with the original series may find its faithfulness occasionally constraining, as many scenes are shot-for-shot recreations. And while the film hints at some fascinating divergences, particularly in the characterization of Rei and the visual foreshadowing of events yet to come, it stops short of fully reimagining its source material. Moreover, as the first entry in the Rebuild project, it plays more as a foundation than a standalone story, setting the stage for the narrative and thematic explorations of 2.22 and 3.0+1.01.

Ultimately, Evangelion 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone functions as both tribute and transformation. Expectedly, the film captures the spirit of the original Neon Genesis Evangelion while giving it a cinematic adaptation that still feels monumental nearly two decades later. Undoubtedly, the film’s explorations of human vulnerability, identity, and connection remain just as relevant today.

Evangelion 1.11 You Are (Not) Alone is available via Amazon and GKIDS’ store.