If you liked
Shinseiki Evangelion
|
...then you might like
Bokura no
|
The comparison between Eva and Bokurano is really popular, so I want to make a little point: IMO, their similarities are mostly surface-level (mentally ill teenagers piloting mecha, and that's about it... well there's also ephebophilia). Structurally and thematically, they're very different. Their core similarities are that they both deconstruct the tropes of the mecha genre and they're both depressing as all hell, but each in a different way. For Evangelion fans: Bokurano features much more focus on the civilian casualties, as well as the exploration of how a real-world Japanese society would react to mecha fighting. The protagonist lineup is a lot bigger, with pretty much no character getting more than one focus episode, but their development is well done and they're generally more sympathetic than the EVA cast. If you're the type to enjoy depression, Bokurano kicks Evangelion's ass at that — the kids' powerlessness to get out of their shitty situation is hammered down strongly and repeatedly. For Bokurano fans (if there are any who haven't watched EVA xD): Evangelion has a much smaller main cast, with more detailed development and a focus on how mental illness cripples people. The plot is intrincate as hell and very well constructed, and in my honest opinion, the messaging is way better (more humane, more optimistic, and more useful) than that of Bokurano. EVA is a series that will reward you for watching it. Finally, the animation is beautiful (in the parts where they had budget xD). P.S.: They also both have two of the best damn opening themes anime has ever been blessed with.