Set in 1986 in a divided Germany, “Monster” begins with the promising career of Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon working at Eisler Memorial Hospital in Düsseldorf. His life takes a drastic turn when he is faced with a moral dilemma: whether to prioritize the life of a young boy named Johan Liebert or the mayor of the city, who was admitted to the hospital at the same time. Against the hospital’s orders and societal expectations, Tenma chooses to save Johan, a decision that sets off a chain of events with far-reaching consequences.
Years later, mysterious murders begin to occur, all connected to Johan Liebert, now an enigmatic and charismatic figure. Tenma becomes embroiled in the investigation, realizing that Johan is no ordinary criminal but a master manipulator capable of bending others to his will. As Tenma delves deeper into Johan’s past, he uncovers a web of lies, trauma, and tragedy that stretches back to their shared childhood in the Red Rose Mansion orphanage.
As the body count rises and Johan’s influence grows, Tenma becomes obsessed with stopping him, even if it means sacrificing everything he holds dear. Along the way, he encounters a cast of compelling characters, from the determined Inspector Lunge to the tormented former detective Grimmer, each with their own motivations and secrets.
A Symphony of Realism
What sets “Monster” apart from other anime is its unwavering commitment to realism. Every character, every plot twist, and every moral quandary feels authentic, grounded in the complexities of the human experience. From the moral ambiguity of Tenma’s actions to the psychological warfare waged by Johan, the series refuses to offer easy answers or convenient resolutions.
The creators of “Monster” masterfully weave together elements of suspense, drama, and psychological horror to create an atmosphere of palpable tension. Each episode is a slow burn, gradually building towards a climax that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. But it’s not just the plot that captivates—it’s the characters, flawed and multifaceted, who breathe life into the story.
The Underrated Gem
Despite its undeniable quality, “Monster” remains a hidden gem in the world of anime. Overshadowed by more mainstream titles, it has yet to receive the recognition it truly deserves. But for those who have experienced its brilliance, “Monster” occupies a special place in their hearts—a testament to the power of storytelling to transcend genre conventions and touch upon universal truths.
In an industry dominated by flashy visuals and larger-than-life narratives, “Monster” stands as a reminder of the beauty of simplicity. It’s a story about ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances, forced to confront the darkness that lurks within us all. And in that confrontation lies the true essence of what it means to be human.
In the world of anime, where the boundaries of imagination are limitless, “Monster” stands out as a beacon of realism and authenticity. It’s a series that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths, to question the nature of good and evil, and to recognize the humanity that binds us all together. For anyone seeking a true masterpiece of storytelling, “Monster” is an experience not to be missed.
Catch “Monster” on Netflix.
