An open letter to Japan re: Evangelion
“Dear Japan,
I know that you really loved Evangelion, but it’s been fifteen years now; its time to move on. Yes I know that it was groundbreaking (as well as heartbreaking) at the time, and yes it redefined for many what the medium represented and was capable of, but it is time to let go. So why then do I still see Evangelion merchandise clogging up the shelves of every figure shop in Japan, spreading rather than receding like creeping ivy, suffocating all before it? Why do the crowds mass round the cosplaying Reis and Asukas with such fervor so long after its release?
Like a guy in his mid-thirties who hasn’t been able to get over a high school crush, the passion for Evangelion burns strongly in the heart of Japan. Its time to leave the past where it belongs and let the healing process begin.
Do not misunderstand me Japan, for I love Evangelion too. I too was enthralled by the emotionally crippled and complex characters and the tension that resulted from their enforced relationships. However, its time to take that step out of pubescent angst and into the frightening world of adulthood.
I fear this is an empty plea, likely to be lost amongst the karaoke booths that still pump out the theme tune night after night at a deafening decibel level. Unless you are a religious person, there is nothing as omnipresent as Evangelion. From the cans of soft drinks you imbibe, to the UFO catchers, to the costume of every third cosplayer you see, Evangelion is everywhere.
Please Japan, for the sake of the both of us. It’s over.”
Facts about Evangelion
30% of Japan’s economy is related to the success of the Evangelion franchise
The average Japanese man thinks about Ayanami Rei once every six seconds
10/10 people know the Evangelion franchise
5/10 people spend at least 50% of their annual salary on Evangelion goods
1/10 people are currently attempting to build their own life-sized and fully functional Evangelion
2/10 people are currently attempting to build their own life-sized and fully functional Ayanami Rei robot
(N.B. These facts are not factual)
