4. "RE: How I found my way here"
In response to message #2
I guess reading the Symphony first sort of gives away the ending of Utena, doesn't it. After seeing Evangelion, I was pretty sure that Utena was going to fail before watching the last episode. When you consider that she accomplished what she did at *age 14*, it's hard not to expect greatness from Utena and those around her. So I doubt your views of the characters are too far off the mark.
I haven't read NXE, but it's definitely on my to-do list.