I enjoyed this version of this story. The characters and storyline have significant changes from any other interpretation and was interesting and captures viewers. For anyone who read the book it should be noted that this is but merely another interpretation of a timeless story. For those who rather watch films and such, it may be difficult to grasp at times, yet it keeps you coming back for more because of the ideas that led to this show, and I mean from books to films. Aspects change with different people, as well as expectations of viewers from show to show as it pertains a Dumas classic, but I honestly believe this to be a fine version and would recommend this show to anyone who knows or doesn't know this historic tale.I liked it.

My only real problem with this adaptation is that so much of Edmond's motivation is left out until the last six or so episodes, by which point they're just trying to cram it in and it doesn't really come across.The original work spends as much time in Marseilles and the Chateau d'if as it does in Paris. Among other things, this version doesn't even go into how Edmond Dantes became the Count of Monte Cristo. The scenes regarding the eventual fate of Morell and Sons would have made a nice addition as well as Maximilian recognizing the name of the Count's bank (for good reason, though I don't want to spoil the book.)There are just so many layers in the book that didn't fit into this series. And that's no criticism, the unabridged edition of the book is usually split into three volumes, and most abridged editions are still 800 page tomes. I'm surprised they fit as much as they did into 24 half-hours of anime.I'm just saying, if you like the series, go read the book, it's mind blowing.

I have seen this story told several different ways and I have read the book. They stayed close to the book and the change did not take away from the story. This was a great story and I love the way they used the art in the clothing. It is a great story and worth the time it takes to watch it. I thought the monster part was interesting, added a little spice to the story. I am glad I watched it.

I enjoyed this series at the beginning. Its sense of style was fantastic and I enjoyed the discovery aspect of the show -- seeing how the studio had decided to adapt the original story for anime use. They had me up to episode 18 or so before I got tired of being 'told' about things, but not seeing them in the portrayal...Gankutuou is probably the most disappointing part of the tale. While we are told a lot about him, I don't feel like I understand what he is. Perhaps that is largely due to the relatively small portion of the show that was dedicated to the Prison d'if.And then we have episode 24, which reveals where the characters have gone 5 years later. Albert has a few interesting things to say (to Franz' grave) but over all there isn't anything here. The cast has grown older, more prominent in an improving society, but is largely unchanged. It just lacked meaningful closure.Ultimately, I'm glad I had the opportunity to watch the series and am equally happy I don't have to own it too.