Monster is a dark psychological thriller anime that deserves its reputation as a masterpiece. With 74 episodes, it has the space to develop its complex plot and multilayered characters.
The story follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a Japanese neurosurgeon working in Germany. When he has to choose between operating on a young boy or a town mayor, he picks the boy, starting a chain of events that radically alters his life. The boy, Johan Liebert, later becomes a cunning serial killer that Tenma feels compelled to stop.
What makes Monster stand out is how realistically it portrays the characters' inner turmoils. Tenma struggles with the consequences of saving Johan rather than the mayor. Johan is more than just a heartless killer - we see flashes of his traumatic childhood that shaped him. Even the minor characters have depth.
The pacing of the plot is masterfully done. It maintains intrigue through slow revelatory breadcrumbs rather than action-packed thrills. The direction and visuals are subtly ominous, with many scenes taking place at night or dim settings.
Some may find the pacing too slow, but patient viewers are rewarded by seeing the full tapestry of the characters' motivations gradually revealed. Monster requires you to pay close attention to connect all the subtleties. The realistic animation and muted color palette perfectly capture the somber, unsettling tone.
With its complex, psychologically dense narrative, Monster is one of the most mature and riveting anime out there for those wanting more than just entertainment. Its dark cat-and-mouse game and multidimensional characters stick with you long after finishing. I give it a 9/10.
