Guillermo Del Toro Is Bringing A ‘Monster’ To HBO

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Posted 4/25/13 4:58 pm EST by MTV Geek in Manga, TV
]By Jorge Solis

With the highly anticipated “Pacific Rim” just months away, what will writer/director Guillermo Del Toro add to his already long list of upcoming projects? As a potential TV series, HBO and Del Toro are teaming up together for the live action adaptation of the Japanese manga, “Monster.” Let’s find out what makes “Monster” must-see TV.

According to Deadline, Del Toro will co-write the pilot with Steve Thompson, known for his work on “Sherlock” and “Doctor Who.” Thompson wrote the “Doctor Who” episode, “Journey to the Centre of the TARDIS,” which will air this Sunday. Because of his work on “Sherlock,” Thompson knows how to stay faithful to the source material, while updating the setting to modern times. With Del Toro on board to direct the pilot, I’d say that’s reason enough to watch the first episode.

The “Monster” series follows a young doctor on the fast track at his hospital. The prodigy is suddenly called into the emergency room to rescue two dying patients. Because there isn’t enough time, the doctor must decide whether to save the innocent boy or the prominent mayor. The doctor ultimately chooses to operate on the child instead of the adult. The doctor’s reputation takes a nosedive after the mayor dies under his care.

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Nine years later, the boy grows up and becomes an unstoppable killing machine. Wrecked with guilt, the doctor has to find out the truth behind his previous patient. Because of their connection, the bloodthirsty killer will not harm the man who saved his life. To correct his mistake from before, the doctor has to stop this vicious murderer once and for all.

Because “Monster” has lasted through 18 volumes, there is enough material to last two to three seasons; maybe even more if the show is a ratings hit. It makes sense why Del Toro and HBO would adapt this medical thriller into ten episodes. HBO’s most popular shows, “True Blood” and “Game of Thrones” were based on novels. With both shows adapted into comic books, from IDW Publishing and Dynamite Entertainment, it would be interesting to see if “Monster” will be turned into one as well.

Guillermo Del Toro’s “The Strain” trilogy has been adapted into comic books and now as a TV series on FX. With such a creative filmmaker on board, this project is definitely in the right hands. I’m definitely look forward to seeing “Monster” on the TV screen.

Steve Thompson’s “Doctor Who” episode, “Journey to the Centre of the TARDIS,” airs this Sunday on BBC America at 8pm.

“Pacific Rim” will be released in theaters on July 11, 2013.