Hideaki Anno, a visionary director and animator in the Japanese film industry, is best known for his exceptional work in anime, particularly in the genre of mecha. However, his contribution to the world of cinema extends beyond just the realm of anime, as he has produced many live-action films too. His talent for exploring the human psyche, society, and existential themes through his work have made him one of the most impactful directors in modern Japanese cinema. With a unique ability to blend raw emotion, innovative narratives, and striking visuals, his films consistently captivate audiences and challenge traditional storytelling paradigms. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Hideaki Anno films of all time.
10. Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo (2012)
“Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo” centers on Shinji Ikari, who awakens 14 years after causing the near destruction of Earth. The world has changed drastically, and Shinji is thrust into a landscape where NERV, the organization he once served, is decimated, and familiar allies are now adversaries. The surrounding environment feels alien, with cities rebuilt yet scarred by the past events. As he struggles with feelings of isolation and a desire to mend what he has shattered, Shinji encounters the mysterious Kaworu, who offers guidance and a chance for redemption.
Hideaki Anno presents a fresh chapter in the iconic Evangelion saga with this film. Anno’s genius is evident as he explores the inner turmoil of characters who grapple with their past choices and the new world order. It’s a film that challenges the viewer, offering both a continuation and a deconstruction of the Evangelion narrative, highlighting Anno’s mastery in anime storytelling. Its visuals, brimming with details of this post-apocalyptic setting, immerse the audience further into its gripping plot.
9. Shin Kamen Rider (2023)
“Shin Kamen Rider” revitalizes the classic Kamen Rider tale for modern audiences. When a young man encounters a mysterious organization conducting malevolent experiments, he gets imbued with powers that transform him into the titular superhero, the Kamen Rider. Faced with challenges that test his moral compass, he navigates the thin line between heroism and vigilantism. As he grapples with his newfound abilities, he is thrust into a world of intrigue, combating forces that threaten humanity’s very existence, while also confronting his personal demons and the weight of his responsibilities.
Hideaki Anno’s rendition of this legendary franchise demonstrates his ability to seamlessly merge nostalgic elements with contemporary themes. The film marries intense action sequences with a thoughtfully crafted narrative. Anno’s distinct approach to character development shines, providing depth to the iconic figures of the Kamen Rider universe. His knack for infusing stories with layers of emotion and tension ensures that the audience is not only entertained but deeply invested in the protagonist’s journey, ensuring that this is one of the best Hideaki Anno films.
8. Cutie Honey (2004)
In “Cutie Honey,” Anno introduces audiences to Honey Kisaragi, an android with the power to transform into the titular superhero. Her quest is to avenge the death of her creator and father figure against the nefarious Panther Claw organization. Throughout her journey, Honey grapples with her own sense of self, often caught in a whirlwind of emotions that challenge the very essence of her artificial nature. As Cutie Honey battles a range of unique villains, the lines between human and android blur, raising questions about identity and purpose, and compelling viewers to reflect on what it truly means to be alive.
Anno’s live-action adaptation of the beloved manga is an explosion of color, humor, and action. His directorial flair is unmistakable as he balances over-the-top comedic elements with the deeper philosophical queries that mark his work. With an uncanny ability to merge light-hearted entertainment with profound thought, Anno crafts a narrative that is both exhilarating and contemplative. The film stands as a testament to Anno’s versatility, proving he can tackle diverse genres with equal prowess.
7. Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone (2007)
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where monstrous beings known as Angels threaten humanity’s survival, “Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone” introduces Shinji Ikari. Recruited by NERV, an organization led by his estranged father, Shinji becomes the pilot of a giant bio-machine to combat these Angels. As the story unfolds, viewers gain insight into the complexities of Shinji’s relationships, especially with his fellow pilot, Rei Ayanami. The weight of the world rests on his shoulders as he confronts not only external adversaries but also his personal demons, and throughout the film, the intricate balance between human connection and duty becomes increasingly evident.
This film marks the beginning of Hideaki Anno’s reimagination of the original “Neon Genesis Evangelion” series. Anno crafts a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience, reintroducing fans to beloved characters and iconic sequences. His attention to detail and ability to evolve the story while maintaining its foundational themes showcases his storytelling prowess. The revisited narrative encapsulates the core essence of Evangelion while introducing new plot elements, solidifying its place as one of the best Hideaki Anno films of all time.
6. Shin Godzilla (2016)
“Shin Godzilla” unveils a modern-day Tokyo in chaos as an evolving, colossal creature emerges from Tokyo Bay, wreaking havoc on the city. As the government scrambles ineffectively to address the threat, a team of misfit bureaucrats, scientists, and strategists gather, aiming to find a solution to stop the creature before it’s too late. With the nation’s fate hanging in the balance, the team’s dynamic interactions and creative problem-solving become pivotal. Their challenge is twofold: battling the behemoth known as Godzilla and navigating the red tape of political bureaucracy.
Hideaki Anno’s take on the iconic Godzilla franchise is both a thrilling monster movie and a sharp critique on bureaucratic inefficiency. Through intense sequences and a fast-paced narrative, Anno offers a fresh perspective on a classic monster, emphasizing its terrifying power while also spotlighting the human element of crisis response. He masterfully juxtaposes the raw might of Godzilla against the intricate workings of human governance. This reimagined tale stands as a testament to Anno’s capability to inject depth and meaning into well-established genres and franchises.
5. Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance (2009)
Continuing from its predecessor, “Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance” follows the story of Shinji Ikari and his comrades at NERV as they confront the threat of the Angels. Beyond the tangible enemies, the story masterfully portrays the fight within, where characters grapple with their own past and fears. Amidst the external battles, internal struggles emerge. Rei and Asuka, fellow pilots, develop their relationships with Shinji, leading to increased tensions and emotions. A new pilot, Mari Illustrious Makinami, joins the fray, adding a fresh dynamic to the team’s operations. The interpersonal dynamics, combined with the escalating Angel threats, create a layered narrative.
Hideaki Anno carries forward the Evangelion saga with captivating visuals and an ever-complex narrative. His vision for this sequel brings forth new challenges, both on the battlefield and in the heart. With every confrontation, the stakes rise, and the characters’ motivations and desires become more evident, while Anno’s ability to weave psychological depth with mecha action stands strong. His distinctive touch ensures that the story resonates powerfully, leaving viewers invested in the fates of their favorite characters. The film, another chapter in the Evangelion series, holds its own, showcasing Anno’s unique storytelling brilliance.
4. Ritual (2000)
“Ritual” introduces viewers to a young man struggling with his emotions and relationships in contemporary Tokyo. Disconnected from society, he immerses himself in the virtual world, searching for solace. As he navigates this digital realm, the stark contrast between online interactions and genuine human connections becomes evident and the lines between reality and digital existence blur, forcing him to begin to face the question of what true human connection means in an increasingly isolated world. The protagonist’s journey resonates with many who find themselves in the crossroads of technology and authentic human interaction.
In “Ritual,” Hideaki Anno explores the profound effects of technology on human relationships. The narrative seamlessly integrates moments of introspection with the protagonist’s digital encounters, emphasizing the dichotomy he experiences. With a narrative that is both contemplative and unsettling, Anno probes the limits of human emotion in the age of digital immersion, with the film serves as a reflective mirror, prompting viewers to evaluate their own lives in the digital era. Through subtle storytelling techniques, “Ritual” urges the audience to confront their own reliance on virtual worlds, ensuring that this is one of the best Hideaki Anno films ever.
3. Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time (2021)
The final entry in the Rebuild of Evangelion film series, “Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time” offers closure to the epic journey of Shinji Ikari and his associates at NERV. Post the traumatic events of the previous film, Shinji faces an existential crisis, distanced from his allies and questioning his place in the world. He grapples with feelings of abandonment, and the haunting memories of battles fought, while seeking meaning amidst the chaos. As the ultimate battle looms, characters come to terms with their past, seeking resolution both personally and for humanity’s future. The stakes are monumental, with the fate of the world and the essence of individual identity intertwining in a climactic showdown.
Hideaki Anno’s conclusion to the saga is a masterclass in anime storytelling. He navigates the complex emotions of his characters with grace, amplifying the gravity of their decisions in this final chapter, while also brilliantly tying up loose ends, offering audiences the catharsis they’ve long awaited. While retaining the series’ trademark psychological depth, Anno ensures that the film remains accessible to newcomers and dedicated fans alike. The culmination of character arcs and overarching themes demonstrates Anno’s attention to detail and commitment to delivering a satisfying resolution.
2. Love & Pop (1998)
Love & Pop” stands out as a dramatically different direction from Anno’s usual mecha-driven narratives. Going beyond massive robots and battles, it immerses the audience into the life of a high school girl named Hiromi and her close friends. Together, they navigate the controversial world of “compensated dating” within the vibrant and often overwhelming metropolis of Tokyo. Beyond the surface, the story also captures the intricate interplay of confronting the complexities of adolescence and pressures from society around them. Throughout her journey, Hiromi grapples with understanding herself, all while surrounded by the dazzling neon lights and the relentless pulse of the city’s streets.
Marking Anno’s first dive into live-action filmmaking, “Love & Pop” offers a genuine and raw exploration into the lives of Tokyo’s youth. Moving away from otherworldly settings, this film spotlights Anno’s versatile capability to transition from expansive sci-fi tales to stories that are deeply rooted in reality and human emotion. Using his innovative vision, he employs unconventional camera angles and novel storytelling techniques, bringing forth a distinctive lens on a topic many shy away from. This approach crafts a narrative that not only engages but challenges viewers. As one immerses in the plot, the film evolves into a compelling piece that lingers in the mind, making one reflect on the many challenges that the youth face in a rapidly changing world.
1. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion (1997)
Serving as both a conclusion and an alternate ending to the “Neon Genesis Evangelion” TV series, “The End of Evangelion” dives deep into the psyches of the series’ main characters, particularly Shinji. As NERV faces external threats, Shinji’s internal world crumbles, with his emotions and decisions becoming the focal point of the narrative. Leading to sequences that challenge the boundaries of animation and storytelling, the visuals and symbolic imagery in the film are both haunting and mesmerizing. The world teeters on the edge of apocalypse, and the choices of the Evangelion pilots will determine humanity’s fate, with every action and consequence carrying significant weight.
Hideaki Anno’s magnum opus, “The End of Evangelion,” is a culmination of his unique vision and storytelling prowess. A film that has been dissected, analyzed, and celebrated by fans worldwide, it stands as a landmark in anime history. The movie serves as a testament to Anno’s ability to craft a narrative that resonates on multiple levels, offering both closure and new avenues for interpretation. Anno’s fearless approach to narrative structure and character exploration pushes the boundaries of what is possible in cinema. Its impact is not limited to the world of anime, as it challenges viewers to reflect deeply on their own real life vulnerabilities and beliefs, ensuring that this is one of the best Hideaki Anno Films ever.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Hideaki Anno films of all time:
- Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo (2012)
- Shin Kamen Rider (2023)
- Cutie Honey (2004)
- Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone (2007)
- Shin Godzilla (2016)
- Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance (2009)
- Ritual (2000)
- Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time (2021)
- Love & Pop (1998)
- Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion (1997)
