I am always very picky with anime and choose only those with plot depth, inspiring arc and crazy artistic animation. Its been a while since I sat down and watched an anime. I have been eyeing at Dandadan after seeing its OP by Creepy Nuts. Last two weeks during my spare time, I started watching Dandadan while my life is taking a chaoting muddy roll.

I am here, to tell you why you need to just go and watch Dandadan. Its a masterpiece which you shouldn’t miss. This anime is a whirlwind of darkness, fun supernatural battles, humour and emotions blended with god level animation. And yes, specifically ladies, ya’ll should definitely… definitely add Dandadan to your watchlist. You can see one of the best written female protaganist in anime here. It tries to carry female POV, that not only caught me offguard but made me fall in love with this show more.

Two Worlds Collide: The Intriguing Plot Sucks You In

At its heart, Dandadan is a result of perfect collison of supernatural folklore and modern struggles especially depicting the unfair crimes women goes through. It starts with two unlikely protagonists – Momo Ayase (I just love her) and Ken Takakura aka Okarun (Officially my type), bonding over aliens and ghosts. Initially while one believes in ghosts the other one believes in aliens, after an argument both tries to prove their theory to each other, following which is an epic collision of both worlds.

The narrative is seamless. Its funny, with terrific action sequence and cute touch to romance while diving into deep and dark human emotions. Its rare for an anime to balance high-octane action with lol humour and give a genuine highlight of societal errors, but Dandadan does it effortlessly. Hail Yukinobu Tatsu sensi for being a sensible writer and creator.

The Not So Traditional Character Arc of Dandadan

We really have to talk about the characters because this is where Dandadan shines.

Momo Ayase: A bold teenager inherited with spiritual power from her family! She is such a no-nonsense heroine I ever saw in manga. She is unapologetically herself, by being strong, street smart, independent and fierecely loyal in any given situatuion. Such a relatable and inspiring character she is and also the main Protoganist of the series. Not your traditional eye candy for male character. No she is not. She is a character women can root for without hesitation.

Ken Takakura (Okarun): Okarun is such a lovely and adorable character. “He is just a awkward guy”. You’ll understand what it means while you watch the anime. The poor guy goes through so much and gets his family jewel stolen( Lol!). He is shy, socially awkward underdog with a heart of gold. His growth from timid boy to a brave fighter will be phenomenal to watch. It’s not forced like you see in many anime. He just takes his time. He stands as proof that being kind and empathetic doesn’t mean you can’t kick some alien butt.

Turbo Grandma: Let us be honest here, Turbo grandma just stole the show and my heart in many ocassions. There are subtle things that show how she is a fighter who stands for women victims. There was even a moment when Momo loses her consciousness and Turbo grandma protects her. The reason she steals our boy’s family jewel is also highlights how she knows men uses that as a way to do harm to women. From being a lightning speed badass in first 4 eps to turning into the cutest comerade whose power Okarun leverages, hands down one of the notable character.

Seiko Ayase: Mom’s grandma and a powerful spirit medium and exorcist. Looks too young to be Momo’s grandmother we all agree with Aira. She might seem a bit aloof and abrasive but her actions reveal a deep love and connection she has with her granddaughter. Her combat prowess is evident in her ability to effortlessly dispatch supernatural threats. Quite straightforward, blunt and extremely humorous.

Other than that, Aira Shiratori is another delulu yet powerful character to watchout for. Jiji is the wayward for Okarun finally having a new friend with shared interest.

Momo & Okarun: A Friendship & Romance Built On Mutual Support

I really really really wanna talk about this. After a long time, I am finding a really green flag relationship in anime world. Momo and Ken starts as a polar opposites of each other. However their shared experiences with supernatural world creates a bond. What I love about their relationship is that they constantly uplift and support each other. They have arguments and fights but, make sure they use communication as a way every time to resolve it which forge their relationship stronger.

Momo’s unweavery belief in him encourages him to embrace his strengths and stand up for himself. Whereas Momo feels safe enough to express her fears and vulnerabilities around him despite her strong portrayal.

Though Dandadan primarily focus in action and comedy. Sometimes I feel like the romance between Momo and Ken always sets in a beautiful way. Which I absolutely enjoyed. Their moments of stolen glances, awkwardness, jealousy and unspoken feelings without overshadowing plot.

A Bond Rooted In Equality

Unilike many japanese anime relationships where one character dominates, Momo and Ken’s dynamics is refreshingly equal. They see each other as partners, with neither oveshadowing each other. I love how they rely on each other’s unique abilites and insights to fight against the supernatural threats throughout the show. Their relationship also challenges traditional gender roles in anime. Momo isn’t reduced to damsel in distress and Okarun isn’t solely the protector. Instead both gender coexist and fight for each other.

The Mature Yet Relatable Theme Of Dandadan

While Dandadan is action packed and hilarious, its also well writern and deeply introspective. It explores themes like loneliness, acceptance, exploitation, crimes against women and love. It also normalises the vulnarability in men and strength in women without making a big deal out of it. I feel like its obviously a rare gem of a work in anime universe.

Folklore Meets Modernity

One of the most intriguing aspect I loved about Dandadan is how it merges traditional folkore with modern supernatural sci-fi. I mean similar to how South Korean dramas do. From bringing the vengeful spirits from folklore to the idea of bizarre aliens alive, the story bridges the gap between old and new. Making it both culturally rich and universally relatable. Now how cool is that! A deviation from basics. And we all know how irresistible Japanese culture is…

Why Women Need To Watch Dandadan?

Ladies, if you have ever felt left out of the anime because of the unrelatable or weak female characters that are being used either as an eyecandy or as a character devoured by male traits, this anime is here to change that. With strong female characters, nuanced relationships and themes of empowerment without compromising on feminine energy, Dandadan is an anime that celebrates individuality and resilience. The series also don’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of violence against women. For example, some of the supernatural entities serve as a commentary on the challenges women face. We get to see it through Ayase’s eyes.

Dandadan: A Feast For the Eyes Of Art Enthusiasts

The animation is nothing short of exceptional. Note that the writer has faced multiple rejection in his career for this work before he brought it alive. And on a personal level I do apreciate him for give such a masterpiece to this world. I know, I am speaking to much for just 1 season (12 eps).

Every frame, starting from OP video is filled with vibrance. The vibrant colour palette on action sequences gives a surreal and supernatural energy to the story maing every scene a visual treat. Not just that, I was also showing to my mom yesterday on how realisting the details were to an extent some of the settings looks like its recorded in camera.

The folkore elements, especially the depiction of spirits and aliens, are so intricately designed that you can’t help but admire the artistry and get inspired.

Dandadan OP Soundtrack by Creepy Nuts:

Cheers to Creepy Nuts for another successful win through Dandadan’s Opening Theme – “Otonoke!”. This again is partly a reason for me to watch Dandadan. What a vibey song that lit fire to the animation of the anime’s opening. I have not even once skipped this opening. I even downloaded the opening so that I watch it whenever I miss Dandanan. You guys do save this song to your playlist in spotify. Perfect blend of eerie, adrenaline pumping track. This song has garnered the fame by topping the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

That’s It…

Its been just a season. I am so in love with it, so I am planning to watch it all over again and again until Dandadan Season 2 Comes in July. I know the wait feels a bit too long. If you find this review interesting, go and watch it already. I know there are lil bit of spoilers. But, its not going to spoil the fun that’s in store for you while watching.

Note: This anime is for 18+. So, don’t introduce this to little kids accidentally.

Where to Watch: Netflix