After yet another engaging and thoughtful discussion, (
Thoughts on EoE), I took the initiative to finally watch the first three films in the Rebuild of Evangelion series. I'd like to use this thread for you to share your thoughts on the films, and any hopes/expectations for the final film.
Personally, I love love LOVE these films. It's so fascinating to see certain scenes reanimated with all the advances in animation we have today. 1.0 was such fan service, and the battles are always so exciting to watch. I highly recommend watching them on Blu-Ray.
I think the new character Mari is a great addition to the cast and doesn't feel shoe-horned or out of place with the existing characters. Certain characters like Ritsuko are seriously lacking in character development, but I'm assuming the creators intended for you to watch these films after you've seen the TV series.
As for the extreme changes in the storyline and mythos, count me in! I'm glad that it isn't just the series re-drawn and that it's a big departure from the story we all know. I think the new Eva designs are fantastic (especially Unit 13 from 3.0) and really liven up the story.
Of all the films, 3.0 has been my favorite. It's probably the furthest departure from the TV series and such an interesting twist as far as what I was expecting to happen after the end of 2.0. That, and the handling of Kaworu's character (the tension between him and Shinji was PALPABLE) are just ace. I really hope he returns in some form in the final film. The light-hearted, adventurous ending of this film is also something I far prefer to the psychological calamity that EoE goes for.
So, thoughts?