Dandadan Review: Genre Bending Shonen You Can’t Miss Here’s Why

Anime fans, especially shonen enthusiasts, are always on the lookout for something that breaks the mold a series that blends genres in unexpected ways and delivers an experience you’ve never seen before. Enter Dandadan, the latest anime adaptation that promises just that. Based on the wildly popular manga by Yukinobu Tatsu, Dandadan is a rollercoaster of horror, sci-fi, and supernatural comedy that’s taking the anime world by storm. If you’re still wondering whether to give it a shot, keep reading. We’re diving deep into why Dandadan is a must-watch in 2024.

What Is Dandadan? A Quick Overview

To put it simply, Dandadan is a genre-bending anime that takes a typical shonen story and adds layers of supernatural comedy, horror, and sci-fi. The story follows two high schoolers Momo Ayase and Okarun (a nickname for Ken Takakura) as they navigate their belief systems in ghosts, aliens, and everything in between. Momo believes in ghosts but dismisses aliens, while Okarun holds the opposite view. In a series of strange events, both of them come face to face with their worst nightmares: Momo encounters aliens, and Okarun gets cursed by a sexually-obsessed ghost named Turbo Granny. What unfolds is a madcap adventure filled with bizarre characters, shocking twists, and intense battles.

But let’s be real: You’re not here for just another shonen anime, are you? So, what makes Dandadan different?

Supernatural Comedy Meets Sci-Fi Madness

One of the strongest aspects of Dandadan is its unique blend of supernatural and sci-fi elements. You’ve probably seen stories where characters deal with ghosts or aliens, but rarely both at once and definitely not in this kind of comedic, chaotic fashion. The show wastes no time in setting up the stakes, plunging our two protagonists into a world where both paranormal and extraterrestrial phenomena coexist. The result is a fast-paced narrative where no two episodes are the same, and every turn keeps you on your toes.

Turbo Granny and Other Wild Characters

We can’t talk about Dandadan without mentioning the star of the show, Turbo Granny. This ghost is unlike any supernatural villain you’ve seen before. Turbo Granny’s quirky, borderline inappropriate antics add a layer of dark humour that’s perfectly balanced by the show’s more serious moments. She’s obsessed with Okarun in a hilariously inappropriate way, but don’t let that fool you Turbo Granny is a real threat, cursing Okarun and sending him on a dangerous journey to lift the curse.

The show introduces a variety of eccentric characters along the way, from aliens with questionable intentions to other supernatural beings, all of which add depth to the world-building.

Stellar Animation by Science SARU

Now, let’s talk about the technical side of things. If the plot doesn’t pull you in immediately, the animation surely will. Dandadan is brought to life by Science SARU, a studio known for its visually stunning projects (Devilman Crybaby, anyone?). The fluidity of the animation, especially in action sequences, is top-tier. Every fight scene is a visual treat, with fast-paced, high-energy choreography that pulls you right into the moment.

Opening and Ending Sequences: A Visual and Auditory Delight

The opening sequence of Dandadan is particularly noteworthy. Accompanied by the energetic song “Otonoke” by Creepy Nuts, the animation is bold, trippy, and perfectly sets the tone for the madness that follows. It’s like a burst of adrenaline that prepares you for the wild ride ahead. The ending sequence, on the other hand, provides a much-needed cool-down. It’s light, humorous, and gives viewers a chance to catch their breath after each chaotic episode.

Voice Acting That Hits the Mark

What really brings the characters to life, beyond the art, is the stellar voice acting. Shion Wakayama, who voices Momo, and Natsuki Hanae, who voices Okarun, deliver performances that are full of energy and emotion. Their chemistry is palpable, making their quirky relationship even more engaging to watch. The playful banter between Momo and Okarun feels natural and adds depth to their characters. Even during the most intense battles or bizarre encounters, the voice actors manage to keep things grounded, reminding us that beneath all the supernatural chaos, these are just two high schoolers trying to figure out their world.

Why Dandadan Stands Out Among New-Gen Shonen Anime

At its core, Dandadan is a story about belief. It takes two polar opposites Momo and Okarun and throws them into situations where their views on the world are constantly challenged. The tension between what’s real and what’s not creates a dynamic that keeps the plot fresh and unpredictable. The show doesn’t shy away from tackling deeper themes, but it does so with humour, action, and a whole lot of heart.

A Rival to Mob Psycho 100 and Saiki K.

If you’re a fan of shows like Mob Psycho 100 or Saiki K., Dandadan will feel like home. It shares the same mix of supernatural comedy with high stakes, but with its own unique flair. The humour is offbeat, the action is intense, and the emotional stakes are surprisingly high. But what sets Dandadan apart is how seamlessly it blends horror and sci-fi into this mix, creating something wholly original.

Comparisons to Windbreaker

Like the recent hit Windbreaker, Dandadan is one of the few anime that manages to balance action with emotional storytelling. The intense fight scenes are complemented by quieter moments of character development, making the stakes feel real. It’s this balance that makes Dandadan stand out in the current anime landscape, especially when so many new releases tend to lean heavily on either action or drama without blending the two as effectively.

What’s Next for Dandadan?

As we’ve only seen the first few episodes, there’s still much more to come. With Dandadan airing weekly on Crunchyroll, fans are eagerly anticipating the next twists and turns in the story. The manga has already set a high bar, but if the first few episodes are any indication, the anime adaptation is on track to meet and perhaps exceed those expectations.

Should You Watch Dandadan?

If you’re looking for something fresh, funny, and a little bit crazy, Dandadan is a must-watch. It’s a show that defies easy categorization, blending supernatural horror, sci-fi, comedy, and action into a single, unforgettable package. With its stellar animation, unique characters, and unpredictable story, Dandadan is shaping up to be one of the best shonen anime of the year.

Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or new to the genre, Dandadan offers something for everyone. It’s a wild, genre-defying ride that you won’t want to miss. So, strap in, because the adventure has just begun and trust us, it’s one you won’t forget anytime soon.