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A review by nataliestorozhenko
Naoki Urasawa's Monster, Volume 1: Herr Dr. Tenma by Naoki Urasawa
5.0
"Who is the real monster?"
I have to say that this is one of the best mangas I have ever read. I am a big fan of psychological thrillers, especially when they are executed through Japanese manga and anime. This spectacular manga is no exception. Everything about it is perfect - the characters, the plot, the twists, the suspense, the stories within stories, the premise, and the overall vibe. The author has put a lot of thought into every aspect of the story, even down to the creepy tales that influenced the "Monster's" character. (And of course, all the creepy and horrendous ideas come from post-communistic countries).
"At last, he had found a name, but there was no longer anyone around to call him by it. Such a shame, because Johan was such a wonderful name."
I have a list of fictional men who I wish could be a blueprint for a real man in my life. For example, Peeta Mellark is one of them. Now, Dr. Tenma has also been added to that list. I loved everything about his character development and how he handled all the trauma and trials with tremendous dignity.
As for Johan. Yes, it's obvious that no matter how traumatic we find his backstory, there is no way to wash away his sins and easily forget his choices. He's a villain through and through from all the points of view. But when I think about him overall as a handsome and very complex character who inspired a lot of fan art, I am jokingly reminded of that meme:
"- He was the best guy around!
- What about the people he murdered?
- Whaaaat murdaaa?"
I need more genius stuff like this. I will certainly reread it and it undoubtedly goes to the top of my list. Both manga and anime adaptation with its badass opening.
I have to say that this is one of the best mangas I have ever read. I am a big fan of psychological thrillers, especially when they are executed through Japanese manga and anime. This spectacular manga is no exception. Everything about it is perfect - the characters, the plot, the twists, the suspense, the stories within stories, the premise, and the overall vibe. The author has put a lot of thought into every aspect of the story, even down to the creepy tales that influenced the "Monster's" character. (And of course, all the creepy and horrendous ideas come from post-communistic countries).
"At last, he had found a name, but there was no longer anyone around to call him by it. Such a shame, because Johan was such a wonderful name."
I have a list of fictional men who I wish could be a blueprint for a real man in my life. For example, Peeta Mellark is one of them. Now, Dr. Tenma has also been added to that list. I loved everything about his character development and how he handled all the trauma and trials with tremendous dignity.
As for Johan. Yes, it's obvious that no matter how traumatic we find his backstory, there is no way to wash away his sins and easily forget his choices. He's a villain through and through from all the points of view. But when I think about him overall as a handsome and very complex character who inspired a lot of fan art, I am jokingly reminded of that meme:
"- He was the best guy around!
- What about the people he murdered?
- Whaaaat murdaaa?"
I need more genius stuff like this. I will certainly reread it and it undoubtedly goes to the top of my list. Both manga and anime adaptation with its badass opening.