One of the aims of the Rebuild of Evangelion films is to present an alternate retelling of the original anime series, and so far the first two films have shown several major changes, such as the inclusion of a new Eva pilot and Shinji Ikari not being a spineless coward in general.

While the third film isn’t due out until this Autumn, a series of videos have recently surfaced on the net that suggest fans are in for what could be the most shocking alteration yet: Gendo Ikari is going to shave his beard.

Of course, since the videos were actually released by Schick Japan to promote their new Evangelion crossover campaign, it’s unlikely the smiling, clean-shaven Gendo made it to the final cut.

Yes, we’re disappointed as well, but the promotion itself has plenty to get excited about: in addition to the bizarre commercial series, select Schick razors come packaged with one of seven adorable Eva figurines for a limited time and while supplies last. A limited-quantity Rei Ayanami razor stand is also being packaged with the Shick Hydro 5, which will soon be phased out for an Asuka version and then presumably followed by Mari.

And if you wanted the amazing image of Gendo and Ryoji going second impact on their stubble as a desktop background, just answer the 3-part questionnaire here (just enter your e-mail address in Q1, pick anything from the dropdown boxes for Q2 and Q3, and click the blue button on the left twice).

We’ve embedded the three commercials below along with an English translation　for your viewing pleasure.

▼“Initiation”

“Announced out of the blue: a collaboration between Schick and Evangelion! What on earth are the implications this unexpected combination? Looking for exhilaration, Gendo and Kaji take razor in hand, a whirlwind of thoughts running through their minds! And a bombardment of limited-quantity original Evangelion plastic figurines, each bursting with character! A campaign that aims for the ultimate refresh runs refreshingly to the top!”

▼“Gendo’s Decision”

“Shinji…I’m thinking of shaving my beard. Everyone will be happier that way. Don’t you have anything to say!? There’s no turning back. You hear me!? I’m going to shave it!

Exhilarating! Experience the ultimate refresh for yourself!”

▼“Misato’s Thoughts”

“What’s gotten into Commander Ikari, completely shaving his beard so suddenly? On top that, even he (Kaji) went and shaved it all off… What on earth are those guys thinking? All the sudden caring about their sex appeal, and now I feel like I’m becoming attracted to them!!!”

Source:YouTube/SchickJapan

▼The first batch of figurines. The next phase will bring a different 7.

▼The Rei Ayanami shaver stand that comes packaged with the Mach 5.
[ Read in Japanese ]