>>281152522>but the execution is flawedI have to agree with this. Mari was supposed to exist outside the usual Eva lore, acting as a bridge to something new. But they played it too safe; they shouldโve gone full meta or given her a better arc. Instead, they chose the middle ground, and it ended up feeling flawed, just like you said.
>It looks like Shinji is shedding his old relationships as dead weightThe opposite would be being too dependent on them, and thatโs exactly what happened. Every loop played out the same: angels, Rei, Asuka, Kaworu, restart. In the end, Shinji learned to appreciate them but also realized he had to move on to experience new, healthier things.
>Who also happens to be Asuka's lifelong friend, adding another layer of betrayalI donโt think current Asuka gives a shit, though. She already got what she always wanted, putting her relationship with Shinji to rest and forming a real bond with someone who truly cares for her.