Review of Monster

(spoilers) To say this show is a masterpiece would be an understatement. The storytelling, character development, complexity... everything was exceptional. Monster is truly one of the most terrifying anime of all time, as it touches on the terrors of our real world: corruption, child abuse, suicide, drug addiction, and more. The realism of this show adds on to the eeriness, touching on historical subjects such as WWII and Hitler. However, Urasawa is so masterful in his storytelling as he perfectly weaves heartwarming moments that balance with the frightening, psychologically-horrifying scenes. Each character is very real in their backstories and personalities- you really feel a true connection tothem emotionally. The art is also outstanding because the characters are so unique and have a very realistic touch. Lunge is an amazing detective that has solved every case he's put on, but experiences many family issues and has no relationship with his family. Mr. Grimmer always has a smile and saves people, but cannot experience emotion. The side characters have compelling personalities and values that make me sob and grieve when one passes. Each character has a satisfying development and it makes me very emotional to watch them grow throughout the series.

The contrast between the protagonist and antagonist's ideals is striking: neurosurgeon Dr. Tenma believes that "all lives are equal" which he holds true throughout the show. Johan believes that the only thing people are equal in is death.
Johan calculates a "perfect suicide" as he plans Tenma to kill him, but fate is unexpected. Johan is the most terrifying villain because he is so realistic, unlike other villains that have extreme superpowers or magic. He makes a child commit suicide using just his words. He has experienced the sins of the world and embodies nihilism. Johan is the only character that I have met in my entire life that has made me scared to sleep alone and stay up all night (for many nights in a row).

There are various theories regarding the ending of the show. Urasawa leaves it up to the viewer to think back upon the series and determine what happens, which is so brilliant. It seems as if the two characters' ideals are constantly battling throughout the show, as Johan wants to show Dr. Tenma that people are only equal in death. Tenma saved Johan only because he did not know about his past actions. However, Tenma demonstrates that Johan is wrong, and saves him once again despite knowing the terrible things he's done, proving that all lives are equal and worth saving. The ending comes full circle and I believe it relates to Mr. Grimmer's Magnificent Steiner show, as Grimmer says that the Magnificent Steiner probably becomes human at the end of it. Johan is probably not a Monster anymore, and has become human at the end as well.

There are so many nuances in the philosophy weaven throughout the show that each of the 74 episodes has an impact on the entire story. There are countless lessons to be learned that have impacted me. Urasawa portrays the lives of all sorts of people and shines humanity on the people that society otherwise deem "worthless," such as alcoholics or abusers. I've held on to the ideal that all lives are equally worth saving and I've realized that every human has their own story. Everyone is fighting their own battle.

There is so much more I can say, but Monster was truly a gift. An incredible, emotional series that everyone must see. I will absolutely re-watch this show and read the manga in the future. Thank you, Monster.