Reviewers often highlight the episode's masterful use of atmosphere and sound, particularly the inclusion of Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" during the final confrontation, which creates a jarring but iconic contrast between the beauty of the music and the horror of the situation.
: Kaworu's love is described as "intoxicating" because it is inhumanly perfect. Unlike the messy, conditional relationships Shinji has with Misato or Asuka, Kaworu accepts him completely, which makes the eventual tragedy even more devastating. Watch Neon Genesis Evangelion Episode 24 for f...
“Kaworu's openness and intimacy is intoxicating in its impossible inhumanity. Shinji got a straight dose of unconditional love, and he will never get it again.” Wrong Every Time · 1 year ago Key Highlights Reviewers often highlight the episode's masterful use of
: The episode also focuses on the total collapse of other characters, notably Asuka, who is found in a state of deep depression and "malnourished" in a bathtub. “Kaworu's openness and intimacy is intoxicating in its
: This episode is the ultimate exploration of this recurring theme—the idea that the closer people get, the more they hurt one another.
: By the end of the episode, Shinji is "broken, finally and completely". Having to kill the one person who truly loved him leaves him in a state of catatonic guilt that leads directly into the events of The End of Evangelion . Critical Perspectives