Monster weaves together conflicting yet justified viewpoints, showing the impossibility of knowing another's experience. In turn, it advocates for empathy even when we don't understand. The themes include loss, self-worth, support, truth, misconceptions, loneliness, acceptance, labels, social constructs, and rebirth. There's potent setup/payoff, earned relationships, symbolism, and an ambiguous ending. Its characters are defined, flawed, motivated, and sympathetic. The natural acting brings expression, layers, patience, chemistry, range, intensity, distress, and sincerity. Thus, Monster firmly and intimately demonstrates the importance of humanization, especially when it's difficult.
Monster utilizes minimalism to magnify perspective and tone. The editing employs mellow pacing, inserts, and a Rashomon structure (which is thematically apt). Its personalized imagery uses framing, handhelds, lighting, scenery, placement, and composition. The sound offers split cuts, ambiance, silence, smash cuts, weather, and muffling. Its music has somber pianos, restraint, diegetics, range, and a longing mood. The production design conveys personalities, emotions, and motifs. Its cast is fitting, up-and-coming, and established. The effects add stunts, makeup, CGI, prosthetics, and waterwork. Overall, Monster elevates its sensitive drama with enlightening messages and astute delivery.
Writing: 10/10
Direction: 10/10
Cinematography: 9/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 10/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Production Design: 7/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 8.8/10
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