Monster. Hearing the title you may think like this is a story about a fictional Monster or something like that. Well, it is not. This is a story, a gem in the genre of Psychological Crime Thriller, Mystery and Drama which is frighteningly realistic. Have you ever wondered, are all human lives equal? Can People become anything like monsters? This is a series pondering over these questions.
Actually, people can become anything they want. It is our hatred, greed, anger, jealousy and all other negative aspects which makes us Monsters in real life. On the other hand, it is our love, care, gratefulness and morality that allows us to become more human. It all depends on our choice. ‘Monster’ has portrayed these thoughts so beautifully and perfectly. A True masterpiece.
Story(10/10): The Story revolves around an elite neurosurgeon, Dr. Kenzou Tenma. It is set in Germany in the 80s and 90s. It is a story about the journey of Dr. Tenma, pursuing a real life monster whose life he had saved believing in his own morals as a doctor, as a human. This may sound weird and predictable. But, believe me, this is a story full with morals, thrills and realism. Not a single aspect of this series is unrealistic or unrelatable with our life. Each and every episode teaches different aspects of morality, philosophy and nature of human beings.
Character(10/10): The Greatest aspect this show had, I would say were the characters. So well written, and so well detailed. The character development of each of the characters had me in awestruck. Dr. Kenzou Tenma, Johan Liebart, Nina, Dieter, Grimmer, Lunge actually all of the characters were really mesmerizing to witness. They were so realistic which took the greatness of the story to a completely different level.
Art and Sound(9.5/10): Although this was produced around 2004, the art and sound were ahead of its time. Perfectly fitted the vibes of the story. Really wonderful..
The only shortcoming this show had, I would say that it is painfully slow in the middle. If you don't have that level of patience, you won't be able to watch. A really hard show to binge. Even I thought of dropping it in the middle. But I am really glad I finished it. Now, I really don't mind the slowness in the middle. Really glad to witness such a Great Series..
From its brilliant characters to well paced story and realistic aspect, ‘Monster’ will have you at the edge of your seat. It is just too perfect.
If you are interested in watching it, I would suggest to just be a little patient in the middle because after you finish it, you will obviously term it as a masterpiece. Also, I would suggest to have a little idea about the Fall of Berlin Wall, Post World War II and Post Cold War effects on Germany and Eastern Europe. It would help you understand the story better.
Finally, a big appreciation for Naoki Urasawa, the writer and illustrator of Monster. He is a True Genius...