Neon Genesis Evangelion Joins Criterion Channel's Curated Library
The landmark psychological anime series arrives September 1, featuring the original television run and essential companion films.
Hideaki Anno’s influential series Neon Genesis Evangelion is joining the Criterion Channel's curated streaming collection on September 1, 2026. The addition brings one of the most significant works of the mecha and psychological anime genres to a platform dedicated to cinematic preservation.
The streaming package includes the original 26-episode television series alongside two critical companion films: Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death (True)² and The End of Evangelion. Notably, the release features the classic English dub produced by ADV Films. This version differs from the modernized English dub currently utilized by Netflix, offering a presentation that aligns with the series' original era.
A Legacy of Psychological Sci-Fi
Originally airing from 1995 to 1996, Neon Genesis Evangelion redefined the boundaries of televised animation. While it begins as a story about teenagers piloting giant robots to defend humanity from "Angels," it evolved into a complex study of trauma, isolation, and existential dread. Its influence persists across the industry, shaping how psychological themes are integrated into high-concept science fiction.
Cinematic Recognition
The inclusion of the series in the Criterion Channel signals a shift in how the industry views prestige animation. By treating Evangelion as a work of significant artistic and cultural value, the platform elevates the series from a commercial product to a piece of cinema. This curation provides a centralized home for the television run and its concluding films, ensuring the narrative arc is preserved in a high-standard environment.
Future Outlook
As the September 1 launch approaches, the focus remains on the preservation of the ADV Films dub, which remains a point of contention and nostalgia for long-term fans. While the core series and films are confirmed, the move places Evangelion in the company of global cinema's most respected directors, further cementing its status as a timeless piece of art.