User reviews

Dan Da Dan is an eccentric anime that breaks the mold, bringing a hilarious twist to supernatural high school adventures with raunchy, irreverent humor and unpredictable paranormal encounters. Following Momo Ayase, a girl who firmly believes in ghosts but scoffs at aliens, and her classmate Okarun, who is convinced that aliens are real but ghosts are fiction, Dan Da Dan immediately sets itself apart with a storyline rooted in supernatural clashes and absurdity.

The anime kicks off with a bet between Momo and Okarun to prove their respective beliefs, leading to unexpected and laugh-out-loud outcomes. Momo finds herself abducted by a group of aliens who, in an unusual turn of events, end up unblocking her chakras and unleashing latent psychic abilities. Meanwhile, Okarun's ghost-hunting adventure takes a strange turn when he's possessed by a spirit, resulting in his body being semi-controlled by supernatural forces. It's a setup that skillfully blends paranormal intrigue with outlandish comedy, throwing viewers into a world where nothing is off-limits and every episode brings new supernatural hijinks.

What makes Dan Da Dan stand out is its dedication to the absurd. This isn't your typical ghost-meets-alien storyline; it's full of wild scenarios that get progressively stranger as Momo and Okarun team up to confront spirits, aliens, and everything in between. The battles are a particular highlight, with Momo using her psychic abilities to combat outlandish extraterrestrials while Okarun grapples with his own possession, adding slapstick comedy and unpredictability. The animation style complements this energy, with exaggerated, dynamic visuals that enhance the ridiculous nature of the characters' adventures.

A defining aspect of the anime is its raunchy humor, which comes in full force when Okarun's anatomy becomes a central plot point-specifically, his missing "parts." The bizarre quest to retrieve Okarun's lost anatomy adds an outlandish twist, poking fun at typical shonen tropes with a more risqué, adult sense of humor. Rather than shying away from the topic, the anime fully leans into it, balancing the crude with genuine comedic timing. This willingness to embrace such an absurd premise, along with the characters' reactions, makes for an ongoing gag that never feels forced. It's refreshingly bold, adding an extra layer of hilarity to the already unpredictable storyline.

Beyond the laughs, Dan Da Dan brings a fresh angle to the supernatural genre, infusing it with a dose of modern high school life and classic paranormal elements. The anime's supernatural elements feel vibrant and innovative, blending folklore, sci-fi, and fantasy without getting bogged down in complicated lore. Spirits and aliens are depicted in a way that is both creepy and comical, avoiding the typical tropes of "terrifying monster" or "futuristic robot." Instead, they're rendered as whimsical, strange beings that sometimes feel just as awkward in their own supernatural skin as the human characters do. This approach gives the show an unpredictably quirky vibe, keeping viewers guessing about what kind of bizarre entity might appear next.

What elevates the humor and supernatural flair is the relationship between Momo and Okarun. Their contrasting personalities and beliefs create an odd but endearing chemistry that grows over the course of the series. What begins as a rivalry based on conflicting beliefs evolves into a partnership filled with humorous banter and reluctant camaraderie. They're both strong-willed and determined but often find themselves in situations that are way over their heads, forced to rely on each other's oddball talents. This dynamic not only adds depth but ensures that the characters are consistently fun to watch.

While the anime is eccentric, its appeal lies in its willingness to mix bold, raunchy humor with heartfelt moments and thrilling supernatural action. For fans who enjoy an anime that doesn't take itself too seriously and embraces both the crass and the comedic, Dan Da Dan is a refreshing find. Its paranormal themes, over-the-top battles, and absurd humor are perfect for those seeking an anime that pushes boundaries and isn't afraid to be unapologetically weird. Whether you're drawn in by the ghost-versus-alien premise or just looking for a good laugh, Dan Da Dan delivers with originality and a delightfully twisted sense of humor.

I was skeptical at first with this anime, but seeing the art style and animation and then watching this first episode and loving every second of it i just binged it and cant wait for the next episode every week. Both the sub and dub for this anime come out at the same time which is a rarity and i love both. I was really routing for re:zero season3 to win this year(mostly because re:zero is one of my top 3 favorite anime) but after episode 7 its safe to say that this anime deserves anime of the year or at least give that single episode a reward. Like oh my god that was one of the most beautiful episodes I have ever seen.

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.

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.

Caught the first three episodes in the early theatrical run and was blown away but the animation and general quality of the story.

Dandadan is an action packed comedy adventure series with a little bit of everything.

Following the manga of the same title released weekly by shonen jump which has received a major following thanks to incredible artwork and consistent weekly releases.

This new anime adaptation has been Long wished for by fans of the Manga and lived up to my expectations

The studio did a great job with the animation and stylization. The characters in the story are very easy to root for and there episodes were all really funny.

"Dandadan," created by Yukinobu Tatsu and released in 2024, is a thrilling and imaginative Japanese horror anime series that delves into the supernatural world of urban legends. The series follows the story of Momo Ayase, a high school student who discovers a mysterious book that summons a group of legendary creatures known as "Dandadan." One of the series' greatest strengths lies in its imaginative storytelling and masterful animation. Yukinobu Tatsu's unique style, with its vibrant colors and detailed animation, brings the supernatural world to life in a way that is both visually stunning and deeply unsettling. The anime's use of urban legends as a backdrop adds a layer of cultural significance, making it relatable and intriguing for viewers.

The characters are well-developed, with Momo Ayase standing out as a relatable protagonist who must navigate the supernatural world while trying to maintain her normal life. The supporting cast, including her friends and family, are also well-crafted, adding depth and complexity to the story.

The anime's production design and animation are noteworthy, with a focus on creating a believable and immersive world. The use of vibrant colors and detailed animation adds to the series' overall sense of horror and wonder.

However, the anime does have its shortcomings. Some viewers may find the pacing uneven, with some episodes feeling rushed while others drag on. Additionally, the anime's focus on horror may not appeal to those looking for a more traditional anime or drama.

Overall, "Dandadan" is a captivating and imaginative anime series that showcases Yukinobu Tatsu's talent for creating a unique and terrifying world. The series' intricate storytelling, strong animation, and well-developed characters make it a must-watch for fans of horror and supernatural anime.

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Manga Reader here, As someone up to date in the story, I assure any anime only reading this that it will be a hell of a ride. The story is gonna be fast paced, there is romance, awesome fights, funny moments, wholesome moments, sad moments and if you are asking what the genre is, I will just say yes. The arcs get better and crazier so you are in for something, the characters are really good and all have their defining traits, Fun Fact Yukinobu worked under Fujimoto the author of Chainsaw Man so you see some of the lessons learnt in terms of pacing and other stuff. If you love good characterisation, chaos, fights and most of all, a good and entertaining story, then give it a try.

I am a child. Not Really but i am after watching this. Havent been so happy and excited while starting an anime in forever. I loved every single aspect of it from its absolutely spectacular animation to the music, the comedy like idk maybe i am jumping the gun but i dont usually get feelings like these after watching just the first episode but i just know that i am gonna adore this anime for life. Every choice made and displayed just worked wonders for me. I am beyond excited for this weird and beautiful journey it is right up my ally. If you are someone who enjoys and appreciates animation and just wish they made more fun animes like Space Dandy then this is it. Its the best thing that is out rn in the ocean of mediocrity.

This anime is probably one when I wanted to watch the entire intro and ending, the best combination of humor storytelling, and another spirit world.

The first time I watched 1 series it grabbed my attention from the start, it is enjoyable to watch every series that contains a combination of humor which is not often you can see in anime, it's giving me some vibes from Chainsaw Man.

Every character is unique and has a story, and I'd love to see more anime like this.

Even every Spirit, a.k.a. Yokai, has his own story and why he is doing this, and after all, not everyone is bad.

I giving 10/10 and hope to see more.

So, this is the new battle shonen everyone's hyped about? Honestly, what is there to say about this episode? It felt wacky just for the sake of being wacky, goofy and stupid just for the sake of it. And as for how perverted and horny it got... well, you can probably guess. I know Japan can lean into weird territory sometimes, but seriously?

After watching the episode, I went ahead and read about 40-50 chapters of the manga, and it's pretty much the same thing the whole way through. These two kids, along with a few other characters, just end up in random situations where they have to fight increasingly bizarre enemies with more delusional motivations, but for what? There's no structured plot. The author's focus seems to be making each chapter and arc goofier and more nonsensical than the last. What happened to crafting an intriguing story with genuinely captivating characters? A kid losing his balls is really the best you could come up with?

I'll give it a 6, because the animation and cinematography were excellent, but technical aspects can only carry a show so far.

This isn't serious television. Anime fans need to raise their standards if this is what they're calling 'peak.'

8.7 out of 10 as of writing. Please... this is complete rubbish. Don't listen to the 'anime of the year' reviewers. It's just another one of those weird/bizarre/perverted types of animes that people make themselves believe they're watching something 'special' because it's 'unique'. If you like watching anime that feels like it was written by a bunch of highschoolers with no depth whatsoever, absolutely weak plot and narrative, then this is one for you. This is the kind of stuff that ruins great anime - false hype, and creating a sense that 'this is popular' 'this is what we want'. Take it to the trash.

I waited for it for years and I must say that it impressed me in every aspect.

Studio Saru does it again and sets the bar very high. Japan gives us another wonderful work full of comedy, mystery, romance, action.

From the beginning the rap duo Nippones dazzles us with their song "Otonoke", we have the very voice of Luffy as the antagonist.

The visual spectacle in the visual act brings out the magnificence of oriental art which leaves western animation in a very bad light.

This gibberish, this tongue twister called "DanDaDan" breaks the conventions through its unusual formula that in turn pays homage to Super Sentai series like Ultraman.

I just need to say that I hope for a second season and "ROKKON! GIVE ME YOUR BANANA PLEASE!

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 has quickly solidified itself as my favourite anime and TV show of the year, between its funny and outright strange humour and intense fight scenes I can't help but eagerly await each episode, The protagonists of Okarun and momo have become some of my favourites in all of anime Their fights between the paranormal are so entertaining and have some truly incredible animation, Dandadan has given me more laughs than any other anime I've watched and I couldn't be happier about it I leave each episode happy and even more excited for the next, This is definitely a show you want to keep your eye on as I can tell there is only more and more great things to come of it.

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.

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.

Yes,it's not perfect,but I like it personally. Id like to give it a high record. The animation effect is very impressive and also interesting. The voice actors worked very hard and created a very comfortable experience for me. It can be seen that the production team has invested a lot of funds and efforts. I'm actually willing to give it a perfect score, but the anime is not yet finished,and there are many elements of guilty pleasures in the plot,i dont like it too much. But after all it's a quite interesting work,with comedy,romance,action,and little horror elements. If someone wants to watch but is still hesitating,I would advise you watch it as soon as possible.

Hai zi men,zhe zhen de hen hao kan.

It makes perfect sense that this anime has had so much success, because it perfectly reflects the cinematic and mediatic era we live in: one that celebrates emptiness and pretty covers. The storytelling is terrible: it tries to force you to empathize with the characters from the very first episodes, having them say things that in real life no human being would ever say to a stranger, like the classic line, 'I'm like this because I have this kind of past'-an immediate red flag for bad storytelling. The rest? Lots of glitter to grab attention, but no substance. Elderly characters with super young, firm bodies and breasts-why? Dramatically, there's no reason for it: it's just there, for the sake of it. The humor is comparable to that of thirty years ago, with plenty of sexual jokes, and an over-sexualization of the female body. Just look at the opening to get an idea: lots of random funny faces, TikTok-like dances, and blinding colors. The drawings, I believe, are the only thing that has brought this series to its current success for what it is: all show and no substance.

I've watched the first two episodes so far. The first one totally blew my mind! The second one wasn't as strong, but still good. If the anime stays this good until the end, it's easily gonna be one of the best of the year.

The visuals are amazing. I legit shouted when Ayase was walking down the hallway all upset-it was both super real and at the same time just hyper-exaggerated. The animation quality is off the charts: emotions, movements, everything is done so well. There's some clever perspective play, kind of like Return to Treasure Island, but done more subtly.

I don't know much about school life in Japan (never been there), but for some reason, I believe this is how it actually is. (Sorry if I'm wrong, Japanese friends, but you guys keep making anime like this, so what can I say?)

The characters are super vibrant. Ayase kind of reminds me of Eris from Mushoku Tensei (miss her a lot). She's just as wild and impulsive, but also kind and caring.

Ken Takakura reminds me of Zenitsu from Demon Slayer.. He's shy and lacks confidence. I'm curious to see how his character evolves by the end of the season-hoping for some growth, but who knows. And yeah, it's funny that he shares the same name as the legendary actor Ken Takakura.

The humor is solid, and there's a lot of it. Some of it's a bit edgy. I'm sure I missed some references, so if you catch any, feel free to share, even if they seem obvious to you!

Oh, and did you know that in Japan they use sea creatures as insults? I had no idea. But let's be real, "brainless shrimp" hits way harder than "stupid ram," right?

Perfection. "Dandadan" is a masterclass in absurd yet captivating storytelling, blending the bizarre with the heartwarming in ways you wouldn't expect. The series thrives on its unpredictable nature, showcasing outrageous scenarios that somehow feel grounded in genuine emotion. The characters are quirky yet relatable, each adding their own flavor to this whirlwind of a narrative.

What truly sets Dandadan apart is its fearless creativity-it pushes boundaries without losing sight of its emotional core. Whether it's the mind-bending art, the rapid-fire humor, or the heartfelt moments that sneak up on you, this manga is a rollercoaster you never want to get off. It's proof that originality and chaos, when handled with care, can lead to sheer brilliance.