Monster

Black Jack addpermalink

Both series have  very similar subjects and characters. Both involve doctors that get caught in the middle of serious humanitarian situations. "Monster" has an overarching storyline, where "Black Jack" is episodic (unless you watch Black Jack 21). 

report Recommended by Kuro-chan

Both series are about a kick ass doctor who goes around saving people/performing operation. But it's more about the characters, then each operations. They also both have a little kid who follows them around (although the little girl in "Black Jack" is actually a tumor...yeah don't ask). Urasawa clearly likes Tezuka A LOT, given his "PLUTO" manga, so it's not a stretch to say "Black Jack" goes along nicely with "Monster". I also find  Dezaki's directing style to be very cinematic in it's aproach, like Urasawa's manga, or Kojima's anime.  Both series are mature, thrilling, suspenseful,  dark, and graphic at times. They both also have a strong emphasis on drama.They are both very refined. On a more superficial level, the art styles of both are very similar.

And an odd thing I noticed, the DVD boxsets for both shows look a lot alike. CPM did a wonderful job with their box sets, and so did Viz Media.

However "Black Jack" is episodic, and very straightfoward/simple. "Monster" on the other hand is anything but simple. It's instead complicated, complex, convoluted and contrived (only some times), yet still easy to follow.  "Monster" also  has a single long running story to tell. Tenma's story is very different then the episodic romps of Dr. Black Jack. "Monster" also has much less to do about performing operations then "Black Jack", although it's still there, and a big focus of the show. "Black Jack" has supernatural and fantasy elements in the background, while "Monster" is pretty realistic.

Both are great shows worth watching though! Fans of one would really like the other in my opinion.  read more

report Recommended by Prede

About idealist doctors! 

report Recommended by mastertek

Shows about a travelling doctor with psychological and philosophical undertones. The difference is that the protagonist of Monster isn't on foot by choice, but rather due to persecution. 

report Recommended by abystoma2

Both feature a first class surgeon as the main protagonist, both are similarly dark in tone and have psychological themes, and both are mystery dramas, though Monster is about solving many small mysteries that are all together tied to a grand mystery, while Black Jack is about solving individual mysteries that occur in their specific episode. 

report Recommended by Bladezeranium

Gunslinger Girl addpermalink

Both are human-touching yet almost crossing the line between fiction and real life tales. Similar backgrounds and character designs, giving the viewer the taste of photorealistic face gestures and European sceneries, and subjects such as coercive human conditioning and the value of human life, will give you goosebumps yet captivate you. Both animations stand out by its well-paced story settings and character development: you love one you'll definitely devote to the other. 

report Recommended by dayomi

These shows both give off a similar mood. They are deeply concerned with psychological warfare, though I won't get too into that due to spoilers. Very dark and sometimes depressing, but also littered with heartwarming moments. They both do a great job at conveying multiple sides to characters.  

report Recommended by Xaeveax

Both series share a highly detailed study of coercive human conditioning, Monster builds on many more themes related to this concept the most prevalent one is the detailed psychoanalysis of sociopath. Whilst Gunslinger Girl is far more grounded in actual concept of human conditioning with a science fiction twist added in for good measure. They are both very mature series both in their approach to the subject matter and the seriousness in which they handle the situation. 

report Recommended by Jodyqt

When it comes to portraying human nature in situations of non-dualist conflict, these series choose to show short personal stories which help you feeling attached to the human beings who are both killing and suffering due to the situation they're in. You're invited to see the world in other way than in black and white.

Also, Hidenobu Kiuchi is the voice actor for both male protagonists, Tenma (Monster) and Croce (Gunslinger Girl) 

report Recommended by Z_Tetriminos

-both are made by Madhouse
-they are fighting with guns
-both are psychological 
-art-style is very similar
-action happens in European countries (Germany-Italy)
-gives you the same feeling, however Monster is superior.  

report Recommended by JuliaCNDSVH

Aoi Bungaku Series addpermalink

Both have serious and mature drama, and similar psychological themes dealing with peoples' inner monsters. 

report Recommended by Bocknoi

Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu addpermalink

If you like mature and dark animes like Parasyte, I would suggest Monster. Like Parasyte, it is a great horror and seinen anime. It is a little different than parasyte as it is not about supernatural beings but about a serial killer. Monster is also by Madhouse Studios (the same studio that is making Parasyte). 

report Recommended by TenshiGirl94

B: The Beginning addpermalink

B the Beginning is a more fantasy/sci-fi themed Monster, a story in which two genius minds chase after each other. Lots of mystery in both series.
 

report Recommended by Dignity

Ergo Proxy addpermalink

Both of them have the same quite glummy and mysterious atmosphere. 

report Recommended by Arleyn

Mutual slow progression and quiet. Both are masterpieces in their own way. 

report Recommended by joshinek

Similarities--
~Same feeling
~The main characters both retain the same sense of hopelessness
~Beginning theme songs are a lot alike
~Both main charters are chasing someone
~Both main charters are booted from their 'sense of reality' and lose their position in society
~Both characters leave home in order to chase after the main antagonist
~Niether protagonist is a teenager
~Touch on romance but both main characters experience as failed relationships as they are both abandoned in a way due to their position in society and or loss of notoriety

Differences--
~One protagonist is male whilst the other is female
~Ergo Proxy is set in a future utopian society
~Ergo Proxy has supernatural elements as one of the main characters is "god" and so are several of the minor characters
~One protagonist is a surgeon while the other is a dective read more 

report Recommended by th3collection

Both shows are slow paced knotty psychological shows with heavy use of symbolism. Both require active viewing and possibly a rewatch to parse properly. As such both should appeal most to an adult audience that enjoys unravelling a story for themselves. Ergo proxy is more "on the nose" and confrontational but no less intricate than Monster, which is more methodical and lumbering, building tension slowly in a more reserved manner to an epic finale. If you had the patience to watch and parse one, chances are you'll like the other. 

report Recommended by Anjuro

Boku dake ga Inai Machi addpermalink

Both have suspenseful themes revolving around the mystery of the death of a person. Even though Boku dake ga Inai Machi has a more supernatural sense, I believe that the two are alike due to their similar "dark" themes. 

report Recommended by Dignity

91 Days addpermalink

Both have the same dark-ish feel to them and distinct beautiful art.
Both are about clever plots created by exceptionally sharp characters and are quite deeper and complex than one might think at the beginning.   
Both are loaded with action, drama and thrills must-see's. 
While Monster's plot is much deeper and more developed and complex, 91 days' plot is developed to the best extent 12 episodes allow.  

report Recommended by Enjyu

Noir addpermalink

Same dark atmosphere and serious plot. Guns are not just a toys and villains are not just there to fight the main hero and lose. 
Also the story is set in Europe and you can meet Czech people (Miloš Havel in Noir) 

report Recommended by iHitokage

Mushishi addpermalink

Wandering doctor 

report Recommended by Zulmamwe

Yuukoku no Moriarty addpermalink

Both deal heavily with the imbalance of a class-based society. They have very engaging and immersive worlds that make you feel as though you are there. They capture the essence of their era's well. While their stories may be quite different, there's something about the characters that are quite similar. Especially Johan and Moriarty, though Moriarty has more tangible goals and Johan is considerably more twisted. 

report Recommended by Xaeveax

Anime: Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex

Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex addpermalink

Both shows have really prominent elements of mystery and suspense which keep audiences actively watching and on the edge of their seats! Though one is obviously futuristic and the other set a few decades in the past they share a common allure due to the fact that they're so exciting and intriguing and they keep us guessing at things. They also both include a lot of ethical dilemmas. Generally, they're both just really awesome... :) 

report Recommended by SaraSlurpsCoffee

Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom addpermalink

Both series share the same concept of kill or be killed.

Both series involves training with a gun and how to kill. 

Both series involves illegal human experiments by brainwashing and transforming them into murderers.

Both series have a lot of bloodshed.

report Recommended by RedvelvetDaisuki

Perfect Blue addpermalink

I'm surprised no one has made this recommendation yet considering the fact that they both somewhat revolve around a serial killer, though in Perfect Blue the MC is being stalked while in Monster the main character is looking for the killer.
Both of these can be quite thrilling and can often play with your head thus leaving you mind fucked.

If you love psychological thrillers, then either one of these will be right up your alley and they're both well written, whilst Monster is a bit lengthy. 

report Recommended by Noriko_Takaya

Vinland Saga addpermalink

The setting is European and the story is totally grounded to reality with no fantasy elements just like Vinland Saga. A 10/10 classic anime that is a must-watch for every anime fan. 

report Recommended by Nafee_Ahnaf

"Oshi no Ko" addpermalink

The central plot is quite similar for these two shows - a doctor puts his career on hold to track down a killer. Both involve similar themes regarding how revenge can consume someone.  

report Recommended by MarylandIzumiKun

Young Black Jack addpermalink

Both feature a doctor who operates on the other side of the law.  I honestly wouldn't be surprised if Black Jack and Dr. Tenma were classmates. 

report Recommended by RoarkTenjouin

Mousou Dairinin addpermalink

Basically both have the conceit of many people who have personal problems and one ultimate person to reflect them, and the evilness and misery of man. 

report Recommended by DenpaOnna

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai addpermalink

Both have some drama, big mystery, slight thriller/horror and series of murders.  

report Recommended by IDex

Fate/Zero addpermalink

This also applies to Fate/Zero Second Season. Anyways, both series:
-Can tell a mature and intelligent story
-Have no fanservice, which goes along with the aforementioned mature story
-Are quite dark and suspenseful
-Have characters with complex motivations
-Are fantastically written and executed
-Have characters with a dark, complex, or mysterious past
-Although previously mentioned, both series have a shroud of mystery surrounding certain characters
-Have intense thriller moments 
-Large amounts of characters dying
-Examples of anime at its fineset 

report Recommended by Gilgy

The journey of a man with detrimentally strong ideals and an equally strong sense of justice, tormented by guilt and trauma, trying to achieve a lofty goal. When push comes to shove and lives are in danger, will he be able to stick to his beliefs? 

report Recommended by Zytoep

Despite the divergent settings and plotlines, Fate/Zero and Monster share a common thematic thread in their exploration of the human condition.

Firstly, both Fate/Zero and Monster both delve into the intricate aspects of human nature and the human condition. While Fate/Zero explores the complexities of destiny, morality, and the value of individual lives, Monster delves into the darker corners of the human psyche, exploring themes such as the nature of evil, redemption, and the choices we make.

Secondly, nihilism, a philosophical belief that life lacks inherent meaning or value, is a prevalent theme in both Fate/Zero and Monster. The characters in these series confront existential crises and grapple with the futility of their pursuits. They question their purpose in life and the moral justifications for their actions, ultimately confronting the nihilistic void that threatens to consume them.

both Fate/Zero and Monster delve into the depths of human nature, questioning the essence of what it means to be human. They examine the complexities of morality, the ambiguity of good and evil, and the motivations behind human actions. These anime series explore the shades of gray within characters, portraying their struggles, desires, and conflicts that shape their identities.

Lastly, the driving force of each character's philosophy is a significant aspect shared by Fate/Zero and Monster. The characters in these anime possess distinct ideologies and personal philosophies that guide their choices and actions. Whether it be the relentless pursuit of a goal, the search for redemption, or the yearning for justice, the driving forces behind these characters shape the narrative and provide profound insights into their respective philosophies.

Considering these similarities, Fate/Zero and Monster offer compelling narratives that explore the depths of human nature, confront nihilism, and showcase the driving forces of the characters' philosophies. If you enjoy thought provoking anime with rich philosophical themes and complex character development, I highly recommend both these series. read more

report Recommended by Zeliko

Fullmetal Alchemist addpermalink

Both feature quests for undoing what was done. For Fullmetal Alchemist, the journey is that of recovering what was lost; for the protagonist of Monster, it is to end a life mistakenly saved. Although their plots diverge a fair bit, the overall feel is similar. There is great optimism and philanthropy in both, and although FMA has more levity to it, they contain a similar balance of tragedy and happiness.

They are both works of immense quality and dedication, similar in length and pacing, with an extensive cast and great characterization. 10/10 for both. 

report Recommended by Arachneia

Berserk addpermalink

Psychological 'horrors' that serve as character studies of devastated men out for revenge. Between Guts, Griffith and Isidro, and Tenma, Johan and Dieter, I see essentially no difference. 

report Recommended by madfrieza

Shinsekai yori addpermalink

A very fair recommendation to make if you've seen one of them.

Differences: Different settings and animation styles. Shinsekai yori has a supernatural aspect which lacks completely in Monster. The former is also more focused on a particular set of characters and their utopian society while the latter is more of a detective series and the journey of our protagonist as he unravels the mystery.

Similarities: They have mature and solid stories with thought provoking themes engulfed in a very mysterious and remarkable atmosphere. They raise the question of "who are the monsters" and leave some aspects with questionable morality for the viewer to interpret. I also think they are very story driven which leaves some characters less developed than one might've wished for. Both very well scripted and with practically none fan service or comedy relief.

For the most part they are both well paced (althought Monster could have probably been shorten) and definitely must sees for those who enjoy good mystery books. read more

report Recommended by Angry-Muffin

Texhnolyze addpermalink

You would like texhnolyze because both these shows deal with bleak outlooks on life and the nihilistic stances or the characters within these shows. 

report Recommended by HarryRambod22

Trigun addpermalink

Their setting is entirely different since Trigun is westernized and is set on a fictional planet based on American Old West, whilst Monster is set in Europe with real life locations.

 What these two anime have in common, is the apex of psychological drama, both of these masterpieces reach (sooner or later) as the story progresses. Several characters from Trigun are very similar to those in Monster. Nicholas D. Wolfwood and Wolfgang Grimmer first come to my mind. Then Legato and Johan, although Legato isn't the main villain. Nina and Meryl (well, kind of) .Both series feature the twin brother as the main antagonist. Both series deal with the themes of superiority. Overall, I think Monster is a better anime but I love both.  read more 

report Recommended by filepile

Uchuu Kyoudai addpermalink

Even though both anime are very different in their genre and story telling, they have some similarities too.

First would the be the very realistic animation - no rainbow color hair or any fantasy.  Everything sown in both anime seem very realistic - being a detective involved in a murderer case or being an astronaut, training and going to space. 

Even the side stories and secondary characters have a big role to play and gives the realism feeling to it. People in the story, no matter how small their role can be, have their own lives and problems, but they just let you connect with the story more. 

Good and detailed animation, some of the places in both anime are real and you can visit them and see the actual view.  read more

report Recommended by Hutai

Odd Taxi addpermalink

I can't compare the masterpiece called Monster with any other anime but I have to say that odd taxi did a great job. It's really recommendable how an anime with only 13 episodes developed really well their characters and the plot twists that has been used it perfectly, Also with a good OST and animation. It's probably the hidden gem of 2021 and it's the best original anime I've seen in a long time ago. 

report Recommended by downduck

One Outs addpermalink

I guess this recommendation was never done before because of the differences of the genres. Plots and atmospheres are different but I find the personalities of the main characters(Johan and Tokuchi) similar in so many ways:

Both of them are gifted with a brilliant mind and they are scarily smart, most of the time they remain calm even in the worst situations, they have immense understanding of "human emotions". When I first saw how Tokuchi manipulated the other characters in the show, it reminded me of Johan right away. They can see others' soul and read their mind at first glance, both Tokuchi and Johan perfectly predict what people will do and how to control them, because these two have perfect observational, perceptive, far-sighted, calculative and tactical skills.

Tokuchi can be described as a "monster" like Johan (but of course, in a good way this time :D). If you like the uniqueness and psychological aspect of one of them, then I think you must definitely see the other one, too! read more 

report Recommended by H_Erifu

Gantz addpermalink

Both of these animes presents many forms of human reactions to psycological violence. 

report Recommended by DraGonBLast

Elfen Lied addpermalink

Both have a very dark atmosphere, and one of the main characters is an innocent murderer to say in a sense. The plots are very serious, and life is something that can be easily lost in these anime. 

report Recommended by iHitokage

Golgo 13 (TV) addpermalink

Although "Monster" and "Golgo 13" have vastly different settings and storylines, both anime share a similar sense of suspense and intrigue. Both stories feature protagonists that find themselves in morally difficult situations as they try to accomplish their goals. "Monster" follows the story of a surgeon who encounters a deadly criminal while "Golgo 13" follows an assassin as he embarks on dangerous missions. Both protagonists must use their own unique style of problem solving in order to succeed. The suspense and tension in both shows is similar and the characters in both shows find themselves in morally ambiguous scenarios. Ultimately, the similarities between these two anime make for an exciting ride full of thrilling plot twists. read more 

report Recommended by Chieru16

Yakusoku no Neverland addpermalink

Main villain (Johan) comes from an orphanage where kids were experimented on by Nazis and is equally (if not more) terrifying as Isabella / Mama giving similar tensity whenever he is on the screen. 
Both shows explore depths of human mind, making you question what is right and wrong, as well as an Mystery element having you grave for more with ending of each episode. 

report Recommended by dakenzi97

Black Lagoon addpermalink

In both animes the protagonist was doing well in their respective field but suddenly everything changes. In Monster, the doctor has a normal life before he saved the life of a young boy. Rock was a salaryman before getting kidnapped by pirates/mercenaries from Black Lagoon. The atmosphere and the story telling in both are that of a much more realistic yet also with more darker/tragic aspects.  

report Recommended by Invensible1

Gangsta. addpermalink

Set in European places with a focus on the underground world where crime, cops, poverty, corruption, blood and battles are prolific and part of daily life. The tough lives of the inhabitants of the "underworld", where organized crime reigns supreme, is portrayed without holding back. Both series hold dark and mysterious pasts that are pivotal to the development of the plot. They are both series that are for a mature audience with very dark, heavy and serious topics.  

report Recommended by retii

Ajin addpermalink

I consider these two anime the two best Thriller anime i've ever seen. And debating, Monster is probably the best Thriller anime existing.

They both have really smart MCs and deliver a story, which seems unbelievable hard for them. You could not think of a way for these characters, to solve their problems and the surrounding crimes. Both anime are dark, gloomy and real. At least they feel so.

Both anime have several plot twists, interesting characters and story lines and deep deep character development. 

report Recommended by seQuency

Blood+ addpermalink

They are both thrillers. There's investigative action in both of them. They both have a handsome blond bad guy with a gentle voice. The bad guys in both animes are very wealthy. Both animes have monsters. They are both very addictive and the stories are very different, but they are both really great animes. 

report Recommended by just1n0

Mouryou no Hako addpermalink

very similar in many ways - both are excellent thrillers with mysterious story and extraordinary criminals involved....     Lovely animation ! 

report Recommended by diadora

Psycho-Pass 2 addpermalink

Both series have a "villain" whose existence is difficult to prove and thus, gets away with numerous crimes. The protagonists of the two series are similar too in the way that they are considered to be pure, golden-hearted persons. The question of whether or not they'll be tainted by hatred by the unfolding events makes both series more interesting.

If you want a more realistic and mature version of Psycho Pass 2, try Monster. 

report Recommended by IrMaXuS

Shiki addpermalink

Somewhat intense murder-drama-mysteries.  Have a realistic feel, and delve into the human condition.  Make you question who is REALLY the monster.  Have doctors who act as detectives. 

report Recommended by IceAndCream

Violet Evergarden addpermalink

These two animes show you what a human is. Both have amazing soundtracks that are perfect according to scenes. These animes teaches you the meaning of life, beauty, innocence, kindness and many other important facts about humanity. 10/10 for both animes. Recommended for those who understands. 

report Recommended by H_Lightstone

Sci-fi Harry addpermalink

Psychological conspiracy mysteries for mature audiences. Both leap into investigations of murder and experimentation pertinent to advancing the plot and understanding the story. Police are involved throughout. Indecisive male leads. Mildly similar art. 

report Recommended by Despised

Boogiepop wa Warawanai addpermalink

This is a strange recommendation, isn't it? The thing with Monster and Boogiepop Phantom is that both anime deal with people that the protagonists, or even antagonists, meet. Chance encounters can shape a life, choices and fates. Monster is blatant about it, BPP is subtle about it, but the common theme is there. 

report Recommended by requimcompany123

Black Jack the Movie addpermalink

Both are about men in the medical fields. 

report Recommended by Monkey_D_Luffy

My Home Hero addpermalink

Both the main characters set out to protect a girl from a psychopath / the yakuza organization while being the suspect for a murder, though one is guilty and the other isnt.  

report Recommended by blahxdxd

Fantastic Children addpermalink

Both are mystery/suspense series which involve delving into the past of a mysterious individual/individuals. Both are at least partially set in Europe. 

report Recommended by walla