The Monster

The ending of Monster is a profound reflection on innocence, misunderstanding, and the societal forces that shape our perceptions of right and wrong. Throughout the film, Minato’s lies and the accusations against Mr. Hori create a web of confusion and suspicion, blurring the lines between guilt and innocence. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that many of the perceived threats—Hori’s nervousness, the bullying, the rumors—are based on misunderstandings fueled by societal prejudices and parental insecurities. Hori’s perspective reveals that he was wrongly accused, his actions driven by a desire to intervene and protect in a moment of chaos, not by malice.

The story also explores the complex relationship between Minato and Yori, highlighting how societal expectations and family traumas distort their realities. Minato, shaped by his mother’s overprotectiveness and her denial of past family abuses, struggles with internal conflicts about his feelings and identity. Yori’s abusive father, the source of Yori’s insecurities, reflects how toxic environments instill belief in monsters instead of safety. The children’s shared moments of happiness in their secret hideaway symbolize their longing for freedom from these crushing expectations and fears.

The film’s ending underscores a powerful wish: that Minato and Yori might escape the hurt, lies, and societal monsters that threaten to consume them. Despite the uncertain likelihood of their survival, the ending leans into hope, imagining a future where the children can run free and live authentically. It emphasizes that true happiness and innocence should not be confined by societal norms or family secrets and that, ideally, these children should find safety and acceptance beyond the chaos that surrounds them. Ultimately, the film leaves us with a poignant reminder that the fight for genuine understanding and love is ongoing, and that the monsters we fear often come from within or are shaped by the world’s prejudices. The ending invites viewers to reflect on what should be—truth, kindness, and freedom—over the harsh realities of what is.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:59