Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time (2021) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie takes place across multiple key locations: Paris serves as the backdrop for WILLE's heroic efforts to restore the city, Tokyo-3 is depicted as a post-apocalyptic settlement where survivors gather, and Antarctica plays a crucial role in the unfolding mission with a sense of urgency and adventure.

• paris
• tokyo-3
• antarctica
• setting
• locations

The film is set in a dystopian future, depicting the aftermath of apocalyptic events caused by recurring conflicts involving giant mechs and their pilots. Characters navigate a world marred by tragedy and remnants of past battles as they seek redemption and a chance to rebuild.

• dystopian future
• post-apocalyptic
• time period
• setting

The movie centers on two major themes: redemption, particularly for Shinji and Asuka as they confront past relationships and traumas while seeking forgiveness and healing; and existence, as characters grapple with their purpose in a world shaped by trauma and conflict, embodied in Shinji's decision to reset reality for a better future.

• redemption
• existence
• themes
• meaning

Shinji Ikari is the conflicted young pilot who grapples with the weight of his past decisions and the expectations placed upon him. Throughout the movie, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing, ultimately choosing to reset existence for a better future. His relationships with Asuka and Rei highlight his struggles with connection and responsibility.

• shinji ikari
• pilot
• protagonist
• character

Rei Ayanami embodies calm and introspection, representing the paradox of individuality and purpose in a world of clones. Her evolution from a silent figure to a more humanized version is marked by her growing emotional connection to Shinji and the community. Her bittersweet farewell underscores the theme of loss and the transient nature of existence.

• rei ayanami
• clone
• character role

Gendo Ikari is portrayed as a tragic figure driven by loss and the desire to reunite with his wife. His actions reveal the depths of his ambition as he pursues the Human Instrumentality Project, highlighting the lengths one might go to in the name of love and the consequences that ensue.

• gendo ikari
• human instrumentality project
• motivation

Asuka Langley Shikinami is a strong-willed character fighting against her inner demons while seeking validation and connection. Her emotional arc unfolds as she confronts her feelings for Shinji and reassesses her identity as a pilot. The removal of her eyepatch symbolizes her vulnerability and willingness to accept the truth about herself.

• asuka langley
• emotional arc
• character development

Mari Makinami Illustrious is a vibrant and skilled pilot who injects a sense of spontaneity into the narrative. Her unique approach to piloting offers moments of levity amidst the darker themes. As she supports Shinji and Asuka, her character represents hope and resilience in a world still in flux.

• mari makinami
• pilot
• supporting character
• hope

The Human Instrumentality Project is a central plot element pursued by Gendo Ikari. It represents the culmination of his ambition driven by personal loss, aiming to fundamentally alter humanity's existence. The project connects to the film's themes of existence and the philosophical questions about reality and purpose.

• human instrumentality project
• geass
• plot device

Antarctica plays a crucial role in the unfolding mission, adding urgency and adventure to the narrative. It serves as the location for climactic action sequences during the final battle, representing the high-stakes nature of the characters' challenge to confront NERV and alter the course of humanity's fate.

• antarctica
• battle location
• climax