Mari Makinami Illustrious

Mari Makinami Illustrious (真希波・マリ・イラストリアス) is a unique and captivating character introduced in the Rebuild of Evangelion film series, specifically in Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance. Unlike the original cast of the Neon Genesis Evangelion series, Mari is not initially tied to NERV or Seele but instead operates as an independent Evangelion pilot, which immediately sets her apart from the more emotionally complex characters like Shinji, Asuka, and Rei. Mari’s introduction brought a breath of fresh air to the series, and she quickly became an intriguing character due to her enigmatic nature and carefree demeanor.

Mari’s character is marked by her exuberance and enthusiasm, both of which she channels into her role as an Evangelion pilot. Her approach to combat and piloting the Evas is filled with a sense of freedom and a lack of conventional seriousness, which contrasts with the emotional turmoil that the other pilots often experience. Whereas characters like Shinji are burdened by their responsibilities, Mari exhibits a more spontaneous attitude, seemingly enjoying the battles and challenges presented by the Evangelions without getting weighed down by the psychological and emotional conflicts that typically haunt the other characters. This more carefree approach also reveals a certain depth to her character, as it highlights her resilience and her ability to remain grounded despite the overwhelming stakes of her world.

Mari’s backstory and origin were carefully crafted to add a new dynamic to the Evangelion universe. Her name, “Makinami,” is derived from the Makinami destroyer of the Imperial Japanese Navy, and “Illustrious” is a reference to the British aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious. This reflects Evangelion’s tradition of naming characters after warships, blending British and Japanese military history as a thematic component in Mari’s character design. Her inclusion in the Rebuild series was also part of a deliberate effort by director Hideaki Anno and producer Toshimichi Ōtsuki to introduce a character who could offer a new perspective on the emotional challenges faced by the Evangelion pilots.

Psychologically, Mari is portrayed as an ENFP (Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) type, known for being curious, energetic, and spontaneous. This personality type aligns with her open-mindedness and willingness to embrace the unknown, as well as her tendency to act on impulse, which makes her a wildcard in the Evangelion universe. While Mari’s actions are often unpredictable and impulsive, she remains incredibly competent and focused when the situation demands it, showing that her impulsiveness does not hinder her ability to succeed when it matters.

Mari’s journey in the Rebuild series also serves as a foil to the other Evangelion pilots. While characters like Shinji struggle with self-worth, trauma, and existential crises, Mari’s more carefree and positive attitude offers a contrasting perspective on the roles of the pilots. Throughout the series, Mari’s character development touches on themes of identity, autonomy, and the complexities of human emotions. She undergoes significant personal growth, and while her interactions with other characters are often less emotionally intense, her involvement in the larger narrative demonstrates that she plays an integral role in the resolution of the story.

Since her introduction, Mari has become one of the most popular characters in the Evangelion fandom. Fans have embraced her distinct personality, her role as an independent and strong-willed pilot, and her ability to break away from the more traditional, emotionally burdened archetypes seen in the series. Her carefree attitude and mysterious origins have fueled much speculation, leading to deeper analyses and discussions about her character’s significance within the Evangelion lore. Mari’s presence in the Rebuild films has sparked interest and excitement, contributing to the ongoing appeal and cultural impact of the Evangelion franchise, ensuring that her character remains a fan favorite long after her debut.