How ‘Pacific Rim’ Paid Homage to ‘Evangelion’: The Hidden Connection

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In the year 1995, I bore witness to the groundbreaking series “Neon Genesis Evangelion” by Hideaki Anno, a work that paved the way for subsequent productions in its genre. It offered a richly intricate backdrop, populated with characters who seemed strikingly real, and, of course, colossal robots. Over the years, this masterpiece has earned itself the title of a beloved classic, amassing an immense fanbase.

In the year 2013, Pacific Rim made its entrance to much acclaim for its impressive scale and monstrous battle scenes. Its plot concept was exceptionally original, unlike anything previously presented in a Hollywood film.

The film, Pacific Rim, was thrilling, fresh, and absolutely breathtaking. However, astute anime enthusiasts soon noticed the resemblances, as it seemed to have drawn significantly from Neon Genesis Evangelion. To what degree did Neon Genesis Evangelion influence the Academy Award-winning movie? What commonalities and differences exist between them?

In a more conversational manner: Pacific Rim was an exciting, original, and jaw-dropping spectacle. But eagle-eyed anime fans noticed that it bore strong similarities to Neon Genesis Evangelion. How much did Neon Genesis Evangelion impact the Oscar-winning movie? What features do they share and what sets them apart?

Pacific Rim’s Jaegers and Evangelion’s Evas

The film Pacific Rim was truly remarkable, and yet its deepest tribute can be found in the way it, like Neon Genesis Evangelion, uses giant robots as living representations of their operators. While mecha are not a new concept, this marked a significant leap towards bio-mechas – machines that, in essence, exhibit life.

In Anno’s “Evangelion,” the Evas are biologically created using Angel DNA and require a strong psychic connection, known as synchronization, to be controlled. Few individuals can establish this connection and operate these powerful machines. If there is a breakdown in this link, it frequently leads to destructive outbursts or disastrous feedback.

These Jaegers, despite being purely mechanical, prioritize the relationship and compatibility between their two pilots rather than the connection between a human and the device itself, much like Del Toro’s creations.

For optimal control of the Jaegers, it’s crucial that the pilots share a unified consciousness with the machine, as their mental states become intertwined with it. When Raleigh Becket and Mako Mori confront their individual emotional struggles – be it Raleigh’s sorrow over his deceased brother or Mako’s burden of survivor guilt – their Jaeger may malfunction or even turn against them.

These mechanical entities resemble the relentless connection of the Evas from Neon Genesis Evangelion. As per these self-aware machines, they do not align with humanity’s interests. Only when the pilots possess the necessary skills should they assume control; otherwise, there is no need for them to pilot at all.

In both realms, these mechanical beings transition from being merely instruments into emotionally charged hindrances, compelling their operators to grapple with deep-seated personal struggles alongside the ongoing external conflicts.

Character parallels and the divergent perspectives

Apart from their technical aspects, Pacific Rim shares character traits similar to those found in Evangelion. The hesitant heroism displayed by Shinji Ikari is mirrored in Raleigh Becket’s struggle with guilt. Rei Ayanami’s enigmatic calmness can be seen reflected in Mako Mori’s steadfast determination, a resolve that remains unwavering regardless of circumstances.

In both series, the emotions of Asuka Langley – her pride and internal struggles – find a parallel in Chuck Hansen’s character. While their father figures differ, they both play significant roles in controlling the piloting of the mechas.

In a simpler phrase, we can say that Gendo Ikari’s authoritative control contrasts with Marshal Pentecost’s motivational direction; both methods yield successful outcomes, but Gendo concentrates on control and coordination, whereas Pentecost emphasizes inspiration.

Although they share some similarities in terms of their themes, Evangelion and Pacific Rim differ philosophically. While the former explores feelings of isolation, existential fear, and self-discovery, the latter presents a more hopeful and luminous outlook on life.

This concept advocates for universal unity amidst external menacing forces, and it highlights the power of collective bravery. Essentially, it conveys a call for global collaboration and promotes the ideals of peace on a worldwide scale.

In Neon Genesis Evangelion, each fight could lead to a mental breakdown, while in Pacific Rim, every Jaeger mission requires pilots to mend their emotional wounds or else suffer severe repercussions.

In the world of Evangelion, battles often lead to mental strain, whereas in Pacific Rim, Jaeger operations necessitate healing from psychological trauma to avoid dire outcomes.

The blend of intense personal emotions, epic battles featuring fantastical beasts from another realm leaves no doubt that the movie Pacific Rim drew significant influence from Neon Genesis Evangelion.

You can currently stream Neon Genesis Evangelion and Pacific Rim on Prime Video.

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2025-04-27 04:33