Monster Anime Review: A Psychological Thriller That Redefines the Genre

Monster

Monster isn’t your typical anime. It’s a haunting, slow-burning psychological thriller that pulls you into a dark world filled with complex moral dilemmas, chilling suspense, and some of the most realistic characters ever written. Based on the manga by Naoki Urasawa, this anime is a must-watch for fans of intelligent, mature storytelling.

🧠 Anime Overview

Title	Monster
Original Run	April 2004 – September 2005
Total Episodes	74
Animation Studio	Madhouse
Original Creator	Naoki Urasawa
Genres	Psychological Thriller, Drama, Mystery

🧬 The Plot That Grabs You

Monster follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a talented neurosurgeon in Germany whose life changes when he chooses to save a young boy over a city mayor. That decision sets off a terrifying chain of events, as the boy he saves—Johan Liebert—grows up to become a charismatic and psychopathic killer. What unfolds is a cat-and-mouse chase across Europe, with Tenma trying to stop the “monster” he once saved.

👥 Characters That Feel Real

What sets Monster apart is its complex characters. Tenma is a deeply moral man burdened by guilt and responsibility. Johan is one of the most terrifying villains in anime—calm, calculated, and disturbingly human. Supporting characters like Nina, Inspector Lunge, and Grimmer each bring emotional weight and nuance to the story, making every subplot feel meaningful.

🔍 Themes That Hit Hard

Monster isn’t just a thriller—it’s a philosophical exploration of humanity, identity, and what it means to be evil. It challenges viewers to think about justice, the value of life, and whether some people are born monsters or created by society. These deep, uncomfortable questions are what make the series unforgettable.

🎨 A Realistic Visual Style

Produced by Madhouse, the animation is grounded and realistic, matching the mature tone of the story. The atmosphere is tense, the pacing deliberate, and the storytelling methodical. Each location—from quiet German suburbs to war-torn Czech towns—feels alive and relevant to the story.

📢 Final Verdict

Monster is not for those looking for action-packed fights or flashy powers. It’s for those who crave psychological depth, character-driven stories, and real-world consequences. If you enjoy cerebral thrillers like Death Note or crime dramas like True Detective, then Monster will absolutely leave a lasting impact on you.

Have you watched Monster? What are your thoughts on Johan’s character? Share your theories and reviews in the comments below!