DVD Corner

Monster Box Set 1 DVD Review

“Monster” is a one of a kind anime series.

GRADES:

Content: A-

Picture: B-

Audio: B

Extras: C-

Don’t be fooled by the title of this anime series because this is not a supernatural/horror series. Instead, it’s a dark dramatic series revolving around a gifted Doctor named Kenzo Tenma. This intricately plotted series cannot be described without going into spoiler territory, so I will just say viewers can expect stories involving murder, past mistakes, a serial killer, twins, surgeries, a Hospital Director, a love interest, and an Inspector doing an investigation. How does this all play together? You’ll just have to tune in to see. “Monster” is based on Naoki Urasawa’s manga series of the same name

It’s best if you know nothing about “Monster” before watching the series as it will make the viewing experience that much more rewarding. “Monster” is unquestionably one of the most unique anime series around. The scripts are full of deep characters, meaty and complex themes about morality, mistakes and consequences, and intriguing subplots that will keep viewers glued to the screen. Best of all, the series is completely unpredictable. By the time the third episode rolls around and jumps the story forward 9 years, you will be wondering what will happen next.  

Summary: I wish there were more challenging adult anime series like “Monster.” Recommended.

Note: Box set 1 includes the first 15 episodes of the series.

The Fullscreen picture quality is average. The 2D animation looks a bit fuzzy in spots.

Included in this 3 disc set are English and Japanese 2.0 Stereo tracks. The English dub is so-so. Some of the voice work is good and some voices can make you cringe. The Japanese language audio track, on the other hand, is a safe bet.

Extras include Manga trailers for “Pluto: Urasawa X Tezuka,” “Twentieth Century Boys,” a Manga “Monster” ad, a text creator interview, text character profiles, episode summaries, and location history text info.

December 17, 2009 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 1 | Monster Anime, Monster Box Set 1 DVD Review, Monster Manga