Cast
View AllMegumi Ogata
as Shinji Ikari (voice)
Megumi Hayashibara
as Rei Ayanami / Yui Ikari (voice)
Yuko Miyamura
as Asuka Shikinami Langley (voice)
Maaya Sakamoto
as Mari Illustrious Makinami (voice)
Kotono Mitsuishi
as Misato Katsuragi (voice)
Yuriko Yamaguchi
as Ritsuko Akagi (voice)
Koichi Yamadera
as Ryoji Kaji (voice)
Fumihiko Tachiki
as Gendo Ikari (voice)
Motomu Kiyokawa
as Kozo Fuyutsuki (voice)
Miki Nagasawa
as Maya Ibuki (voice)
Takehito Koyasu
as Shigeru Aoba (voice)
Hiro Yuuki
as Makoto Hyuuga (voice)
Tomokazu Seki
as Toji Suzuhara (voice)
Tetsuya Iwanaga
as Kensuke Aida (voice)
Junko Iwao
as Hikari Horaki (voice)
Crew
Director
- Masayuki
- Kazuya Tsurumaki
- Hideaki Anno
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Masayuki brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 255 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 49 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Aliens, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Face/Off and Alien Weekend explore similar territory, Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 26, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 52m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $44,339,362
Where to Watch

