The work of Hideaki Anno is widely recognized and celebrated among both hardcore and casual anime fans. One of his most notable contributions to the industry is Neon Genesis Evangelion, which has achieved immense popularity and continues to be highly anticipated with each new format or box set release.
Even after more than 20 years since its initial release, Neon Genesis Evangelion remains a must-watch for any generation. This is a testament to the lasting impact of both the series itself and Hideaki Anno’s influence on the anime industry.
Anno is known for his unique signature style, which combines slapstick comedy and parody with brooding darkness. This distinctive approach is evident in his most famous works, establishing him as one of the most prolific names in 90s anime and carrying his influence into subsequent generations.
While his work in the 90s solidified his legacy, Anno’s rise in the industry began with collaborations with some of the most renowned names and studios of the 80s.
Hideaki Anno’s journey in animation started while he was studying at the Osaka University of Arts. During this time, he worked as an animator on Super Dimension Fortress Macross and contributed to the opening animations for the Nipon SF Taikai sci-fi conventions, known as Daicon III and Daicon IV.
Anno’s talent caught the attention of Hayao Miyazaki, who played a significant role in his career. Miyazaki was impressed with Anno’s work and entrusted him with animating some of the most complex scenes, including the awakening of the God Warrior in Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. This collaboration led to a long-lasting friendship, with Miyazaki serving as a mentor to Anno and even casting him as the main character in The Wind Rises.
In 1984, Anno co-founded Gainax with some of his former college classmates. Initially intended as a temporary entity, Gainax was established to create Royal Space Force: The Wings of Honneamise in collaboration with Bandai. Anno worked as the animation director for this film and later became the premier director for the studio, overseeing the creation of some of the most iconic anime series.
Gunbuster
Anno’s directorial debut came with Gunbuster, a follow-up to Gainax’s classic movie debut, Royal Space Force. Gunbuster parodied movies like Top Gun and Aim for the Ace! while also delivering a darker narrative. The series explored themes of time dilation and the emotional toll of space missions on the crew.
Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water
Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water, loosely based on Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, followed Gunbuster. This grand adventure story featured mystery and a confrontation against neo-Atlantean forces. Nadia showcased Anno’s talent for incorporating parodies and references to other anime while exploring complex character development.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion stands as Anno’s most famous work, leaving a profound impact on the anime industry. The series takes place 15 years after a cataclysmic event and follows three teenage mech pilots as they face off against invading celestial beings known as Angels. Evangelion delves into themes of anxiety, depression, and trauma, combining genre parody with a gripping and emotionally intense narrative.
Despite initial controversy in Japan due to its mature content being broadcast in a timeslot aimed at younger audiences, Neon Genesis Evangelion gained immense popularity among older anime fans during late-night reruns. Budgetary constraints led to a rushed ending, but Anno and Gainax later released Death and Rebirth and End of Evangelion to provide a more satisfying conclusion to the story.
His and Her Circumstances
Anno’s final series on this list is His and Her Circumstances, a departure from his previous works. This high school romance story explores dark emotions within a comedic slapstick framework. Anno’s involvement in the series was marred by artistic differences and animation restrictions, but it remains a worthwhile watch for fans of romance and classic anime.
Hideaki Anno’s legacy in the world of Japanese animation is undeniable. His abstract storytelling, genre deconstruction, and exploration of human emotions have left an indelible mark on the industry. While he has continued to work on both anime and live-action movies after the 90s, Anno’s most respected and famous directorial efforts took place during this classic era of anime.
Neon Genesis Evangelion remains his most iconic work, but any fan of classic anime should not miss out on his other contributions. Anno’s talent and influence have shaped the medium and continue to resonate with audiences today.
This article discusses Hideaki Anno, the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, and his ongoing success in the anime industry.
This article discusses Hideaki Anno and his popular anime, Neon Genesis Evangelion. It highlights the continued anticipation and excitement surrounding new releases of the series, even after 20 years.
Hideaki Anno, the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, is aiming for the top with his latest work. This article highlights the continued popularity and anticipation surrounding his projects, even over 20 years later.