Introduction

Having seen over 1,500 anime (my MAL is so outdated that I’m losing track at this point), I can be tough on anime. After watching so many series with similar themes, it’s easy to grow jaded. Despite this, I still love even the silliest and most cliché anime. But when it’s time to review, I tend to be a bit harsh. Then a series like Dandadan comes along and reminds me why anime still holds a special place in my heart, even after 30+ years of viewing. Dandadan is a wild ride, and while explaining it doesn’t do it justice, this review will showcase why I think it should be the anime of 2024 without question. Broiught to you by Studio Science Saru, here’s our Dandadan review!

Story

Ken Takakura, an awkward believer in aliens, constantly gets bullied for being quiet and reserved. Meanwhile, Momo Ayase, a tough girl who just got dumped by her boyfriend, ends up protecting Ken from some classmates. This leads to the two of them talking, despite their contrasting personalities. Ken believes in aliens, while Momo believes in ghosts. This sets the stage for an argument that leads both of them to discover that aliens and ghosts are, in fact, real. Ken, now nicknamed Okarun, after a movie star Momo admires, becomes possessed by a supernatural entity named Turbo Granny. Momo, too, gains supernatural powers after an alien abduction. Together, they must embark on a mission to save Okarun’s “balls” and his little friend below.

The story of Dandadan is as wild as it sounds, and I struggle to explain it without spoiling key elements. What makes this series so captivating is its chaotic nature. After years of being an otaku, predicting anime plots has become too easy. Yet, Dandadan defies expectations at every turn. Just when you think you have a grasp on the story, it throws a massive curveball, reminding you that there’s so much more weirdness to experience. The romance aspect, though at times cheesy, is genuinely adorable. I want Okarun and Momo to get together—they’re the perfect pair, and their chemistry makes the show even better.

Animation

Studio Science Saru is no stranger to animating unconventional series. Known for works like Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! and Devilman Crybaby, they consistently deliver stunning animation, and Dandadan is no exception. The series can be absurd at times, with strange designs and animations, but during action sequences and even some of the calmer moments that showcase the backdrops, Dandadan looks incredible. The adaptation from manga to anime is near perfect, and fans of the manga will appreciate how well the anime captures the essence of the original material.

Sound

The sound design in Dandadan deserves major praise. If you’ve heard the opening song 1,000 times like I have, you’ll understand why it’s so memorable. The music, particularly the opening theme “Otonoke” by Creepy Nuts (featured in season 2 of Mashle), perfectly captures the show’s quirky nature. It’s a track that’s as weird as the series itself, yet it’s catchy enough to make you want to play it repeatedly. The ending song, “Taidada” by Zutomayo, complements the quirkiness, and while I didn’t love it as much as the opening, it’s still enjoyable.

The voice acting also stands out. I watched Dandadan in both English dub and Japanese, and I was impressed with both versions. Although I typically prefer the subbed version, I was genuinely impressed with the English dub. If you’re looking for a more serious take, the subbed version is ideal, but the English dub does a great job of bringing the characters to life.

Characters

Dandadan features a vibrant cast of characters that make the show stand out. Okarun and Momo have great chemistry and are both fun and silly. The lesser-used characters also contribute significantly to the story, including Turbo Granny, the supernatural entity that possesses Okarun and gives him his insane powers (I won’t spoil what those are—watch the show!). There’s also Aira Shiratori, a high school idol, and Jin Enjoji, Momo’s goofy childhood crush. Then there’s Seiko Ayase, the world’s hottest grandma (who doesn’t look that old). These characters all play crucial roles in advancing the plot, and I can’t choose a favorite because each one adds something unique to the series.

Manga vs. Anime

Usually, if I love an anime, I avoid reading the manga to stay focused on the show. However, since I had to wait until July for season 2 (which has already been confirmed), I decided to dive into the manga and read up to where the anime ends. I was surprised to find that in some ways, the anime slightly outshines the manga. That said, I think fans of the manga will agree that Studio Science Saru did a nearly flawless job adapting the material. While I won’t spoil too much, I’ll say that fans of the manga will love this adaptation. I plan to collect the manga myself!

Conclusion

Yes, I believe Dandadan is perfect. Not a single episode or moment failed to keep me hooked and wanting more. Even if the series weren’t confirmed for a second season, I’d still love it—though I’d be disappointed. If you have Netflix or Crunchyroll, stop what you’re doing (unless you’re working, then work) and watch Dandadan right now! This is a show you don’t want to miss.

—Aaron