Dandadan

Being a manga reader first, I was quite skeptical at first, because I adored the writing and art-style of the manga, and I thought an anime adaptation for a manga this ambitious and genre bending would be watered down in both art and animation, especially when I saw the first looks (very skeptical of their being less details on characters) but all those worries soon dissolved away when I finally heard it's Science SARU doing it, not to mention their recent line-up Scott pilgrim, Devilman crybaby and keep your hands off Eizouken all match the zaniness and vibe of DandaDan, also studio founder Masaaki Yuasa is one of my favorite anime directors/animators of all time, worked on shows such as Ping pong, Tatami Galaxy and again Devilman.

Ever since the first episode drop, I've been anticipating the next week after week, as it does not pale comparison to the manga, sometimes even better. I was mainly worried because this was the first anime I read first, but now I know Dandadan not only cemented itself as a phenomenal manga but also a great anime.

My daughter and I recently watched the 24-episode anime series Dandadan (2024) on Netflix. The storyline follows two unlikely friends-one obsessed with aliens and the other with ghosts-who discover that both their beliefs are real. Together, with help from one friend's grandmother, they face off against supernatural and extraterrestrial threats.

The series is co-created by Fûga Yamashiro (Inu-Oh) and Abel Gongora (Scott Pilgrim Takes Off), featuring voice performances from Barbara Goodson (Akira), Aleks Le (Solo Leveling), Kari Wahlgren (Rick and Morty), and Brent Mukai (Demon Slayer).

This show is a blast-filled with unique animation, a killer soundtrack, a heartfelt love story, and an imaginative monster universe. The central plotline (yes, involving a young man's missing testicles) adds an absurd but hilarious twist. The character backstories are touching, the grandmother is unexpectedly stunning, and Turbo Granny's evolution is both hilarious and heartfelt. The action scenes are fantastic-especially the transitions between black-and-white and vibrant pink sequences that sometimes give the series a kaiju-like feel. There's a lot happening, but it all works beautifully.

In conclusion, Dandadan is a wild, stylish mix of sci-fi and horror with stellar animation and memorable characters. I'd rate it 8/10 and highly recommend it.

Dandadan can seem so unserious at first. What with its ridiculous foundations, its even weirder subplots, and its character dynamic, the range of the show feels so huge, which is why I haven't reviewed it before.

While I know the show can go so many more places so easily, I have to say I think by now I can conclude: this show would struggle to go wrong. It is incredibly good.

Both in source and adaptation, this anime is without many flaws. I had questions about the pacing of episodes 5 and 6, but I realised the slow build was for a high point at 7, which I think completely resolves the pacing issues I feared. The plot, as I mentioned, has such a range, bringing in supernatural horror and sci-fi horror into one light, comedic and compelling storyline. I have laughed at this show, but I'd say more impressively, I've cried at this show. This is the range of Dandadan.

As well as just the plot, the adaptation is amazing. Science Saru's animation is always exceptional, but it's those aspirational, absurd and weird choices they make in framing, angles and movements which make their shows feel so authentic. The voice acting performances, especially for the Japanese leads for Ayase and Okarun are genuinely incredible, with both having a really good range of performances. That's needed for a show that works on two levels, as both a slice of live and as a supernatural shonen action, and a drama on top of that.

Doing so much makes Dandadan so hard to categorise, but I'd say most watchers will love this show. It is fast becoming a favourite for me and I'm sure I won't be alone on that.

10/10. An Autumn must-watch.

Dandadan kicks off with an absolute banger of an intro by Creepy Nuts that instantly grabs your attention and sets the tone for the wild ride ahead. The anime blends supernatural elements, action, and comedy in a way that feels fresh and unique, giving new-gen anime fans something truly exciting to look forward to The show wastes no time immersing you in its unpredictable and fast-paced story, revolving around eccentric characters dealing with bizarre situations involving aliens and ghosts. The animation quality is top-tier, with stunning visuals that capture the chaotic energy of each scene perfectly But what really stands out is the potential this anime has.

With its dynamic storytelling, memorable characters, and fantastic world-building, Dandadan has all the makings of a new anime classic. The balance between its heart-pounding action, humor, and heartfelt moments makes it an easy 10/10 for me If you're looking for a unique, adrenaline-pumping anime that breaks away from typical shonen tropes, this is definitely one to keep your eyes on.

Dandadan is a visual explosion, a masterclass in how to use animation to tell a story that's as hilarious as it is terrifying. Director Fuga Yamashiro, with his experience on "Eizouken!", takes the reins and steers the anime into uncharted territory, merging classic techniques with experimental flourishes that perfectly complement the outlandish narrative.

The art style of Dandadan is a captivating blend of seemingly disparate elements. It draws inspiration from traditional anime aesthetics, giving a nod to the iconic works that came before it. But it doesn't stop there. The character designs, with their exaggerated features and expressive eyes, sometimes evoke the charm of Western cartoons, adding a layer of playful absurdity. And then, when you least expect it, the art takes a sharp turn towards the grotesque, showcasing terrifying yokai with intricate details that would make Junji Ito proud. This constant shifting of visual gears mirrors the unpredictable nature of the story itself, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

Science Saru, the studio behind Dandadan, flexes its animation muscles in every single frame. The fight sequences are a spectacle to behold, a whirlwind of motion and impact. Characters contort and stretch in impossible ways, defying the laws of physics as they deliver devastating blows. The animators utilize dynamic camera angles and distorted perspectives, creating a sense of raw power and kinetic energy that truly immerses you in the action. But it's not all high-octane battles. Dandadan also excels in its quieter moments, where subtle shifts in expression and body language speak volumes. This masterful control over the animation allows the series to seamlessly transition between explosive action, slapstick comedy, and heartfelt drama.

Yamashiro's directorial vision is evident in every aspect of Dandadan's visual presentation. He's not afraid to break the mold, experimenting with a wide range of techniques to create a truly unique aesthetic. The color palettes are vibrant and varied, shifting to reflect the mood and atmosphere of each scene. He plays with aspect ratios, sometimes stretching the frame to emphasize the scale of a monstrous yokai, other times narrowing it to create a sense of claustrophobia. He even incorporates live-action footage in unexpected ways, blurring the lines between reality and animation. This bold and innovative approach is a testament to Yamashiro's talent and his desire to push the boundaries of anime.

Science Saru, founded by the visionary Masaaki Yuasa, has a well-deserved reputation for producing some of the most visually stunning and innovative anime in recent years. With Dandadan, the studio continues this tradition, showcasing its signature style in all its glory. The fluid animation, expressive character designs, and imaginative use of visual metaphors are all hallmarks of Science Saru's unique approach. The team clearly relishes the opportunity to bring Tatsu's bizarre creations to life, imbuing each yokai and alien with a distinct personality and visual flair.

The visual brilliance of Dandadan is further enhanced by its exceptional sound design. The soundtrack, composed by Nasuo, perfectly complements the on-screen action, blending traditional Japanese instruments with electronic beats to create a truly unique soundscape. The voice acting is also top-notch, with each actor bringing their characters to life with incredible energy and nuance. The sound effects are crisp and impactful, adding weight to every punch, kick, and supernatural encounter. This meticulous attention to sound elevates the viewing experience, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable world.

While the art and animation are undeniably impressive, they serve a greater purpose than just being visually appealing. They are integral to the storytelling, enhancing the humor, horror, and emotional depth of the narrative. Whether it's a terrifying yokai encounter, a hilarious misunderstanding between the two leads, or a touching moment of friendship, the visuals work in perfect harmony with the story to create a truly impactful and unforgettable experience.