I don't mind sad children's movies. I do, however, want some glimmer of hope or redemption at the end, which this movie did not offer. Max is an obviously troubled child who should be getting lots of attention and guidance at home, which he is not. One night after acting out and getting in trouble, he runs away to a desolate island of his mind and encounters several monsters, each representing various aspects of his own emotions. These monsters are constantly in conflict, just as the feelings within Max. He tries to be their king to bring some order to these unhappy monsters but without success. He finally abandons the miserable creatures to return home, which seems to indicate that he is unable to cope with his own inner turmoil and has given up. The sight of these pathetic monsters crying and watching Max leave left me feeling very sad and troubled.