Some of you may have tuned in to SyFy channels "animondays", like I have, and seen the dub of Monster. Its really not like the typicall chibi or fight club type anime that most American channels show, yet its getting good ratings from both Otakus, and anime-illiterate viewers. why?

Well, to begin with, its an anime that you can watch, even of you know nothing of Asian customs. The show really does guide you through the cultural setups. Its really much more of an adult anime, in that the themes are serious and thought provoking with little or no attempt at humor whatsoever. Most of it portrays a very cynical world, but its real deep phylisophical questions are constantly put in conflict with each other.

The basic plot involves a doctor who saves a young boys life, although he has to break some rules to do it. The boy grows to be a serial killer, and the doctor goes on a man hunt to fix his "mistake".

The show takes a look at humanity in general and while the overall plot isn't hard to follow, all the interwoven sub-schemes can keep one interested. Many of the characters are eccentrics, and while many of thier basic motives seem admirable, it really makes you wonder how some people get so twisted up in thier heads.

So, while this anime is very dark, kinda creepy, and involves some heavy thinking, I thik its still very interesting and it really does show many people tht anime is MUCH more then just "japanese cartoons". This is a show that is meant to be taken seriously, and is overall good advertising for the genre.

I think I'd give it seven out of ten stars. It certainly not the best of anime, but its a great one for those watching and gettign into anime as adults. Or just want to watch a show without all the typicall gags.