If you have shared hate comments on the latest Evangelion movie by (Hideaki Anno’s Studio Khara) and made intolerable personal attacks, you could be sued by the studio, according to their latest press release.
Evangelion – Background information
Few anime in recent history have been looked forward to with such intense anticipation equivalent to Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time.
This movie was released after a long nine-year wait since the last Evangelion movie. This movie not only serves as the conclusion to the entire movie series but also acts as the endpoint of the entire franchise. As you know, this journey had started with the Neon Genesis Evangelion TV series way back in 1995.
Understandably, though, a certain segment of fans were so emotionally invested in the story, that they felt put off after seeing it. Fair enough. But, unfortunately, some of the disappointed fans have started to threaten and slander the members of Studio Khara, according to the animation house. And they will not have it.
According to the official statement by Studio Khara on their website:
Thank you for your support of the Rebuild of Evangelion. We have confirmed cases of slander, threats, and suggestions of criminal activity against individuals related to the film. As well as distorted misconstructions of the film’s content and articles and other media related to it.
This film was a collaborative production created by many staff members, principally at Studio Khara. Our company, in regards to created fiction, sincerely accepts the perceptions, reactions, feelings and opinions related to it.However, damaging the dignity of people related to the production, making slanderous or threatening remarks against them, or suggesting criminal activity based on individual interpretation and inferences of the film, or it not meeting personal expectations, are things we strongly object to, regardless of circumstances.
Furthermore, in cases of statements which clearly constitute criminal defamation, intimidation, or death threats, we will contact the police if the comments originate from inside Japan, and even for statements originating from overseas we will report the statements to each country’s respective investigative agencies and pursue legal action, including seeking monetary compensation for damages.
This is a truly hurtful experience for the entire team behind the movie.
Old-school Anime fans may remember that the Evangelion TV series ended on a controversial note in 1996. Even during that time, the creator/director Hideaki Anno was the subject of an intense backlash. So much so that he received comments from dissatisfied fans who said they wished he would die.
You might have heard that the anime in itself is known to lean heavily on Hideaki Anno’s struggle with depression. Anno, who technically runs the studio, has decided to make the company’s stance clear to protect his staff. Studio Khara is prepared to fight back against anonymous people who slander on a global scale.
Indian fans of the series, be mindful, and spread love, we say.
