I recently finished this incredible series and to say I’m sad to see it go is an understatement.
Monster, a 2004 anime with a 2009 English dub, is (to put it briefly), an incredible show about Dr. Kenzo Tenma
and the people he saves. Every character in this show is treated with the utmost love and attention to detail. Monster features
some of the best characterizations I’ve seen in media, from the overbearingly lovable Kenzo Tenma, to some of the most detestable
people imaginable. Every person, from those featured in single episodes, to the main characters and antagonists, feel real,
lived in, and baked into their unique world-views.
The art of the show is comfortable, beautiful, grounded in our world in a way that sparks appreciation. Every painting stuck with me
in a way that postcards cannot. The world Monster exists in, despite being our own, feels otherworldly and beautiful; soft, airy,
and bright. It exists ultimately in contrast to the depth of the plot. It reeks of comfort in a deeply uncomfortable story. These
contrasts only heighten Monster’s storytelling and the characters we follow.
The plot begins slowly and quickly ramps up into its true showcase. The series is unafraid to throw questions at the viewer, endless
small details that stack into the show’s truth. While perfectly enjoyable as a casual watch, it provides so much material for discussion
in every episode. One of my favorite parts of watching was how often we paused to talk about our theories and understandings. Desperate
to put together the ending, desperate to communicate with the characters and warn them of their fate.
Monster (2004) took a top spot in my personal favorites ranking. There is so little to critique in my eyes; from the plot, to the art,
to the voice acting- every detail had me enthralled and glued to the series.