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Overview
Prepare for an electrifying journey into the bizarre and brilliant world of DAN DA DAN, an action-packed anime television series meticulously crafted by the acclaimed studio Science SARU. This series masterfully weaves together supernatural horror, vibrant sci-fi, laugh-out-loud comedy, heartfelt drama, and blossoming romance into an exhilarating narrative. The story plunges us into the lives of two high school students with delightfully opposing beliefs: Momo Ayase, who firmly believes in ghosts but scoffs at aliens, and Ken Takakura, affectionately nicknamed "Okarun," who champions the existence of extraterrestrials but dismisses spirits. Their playful yet earnest bet propels them into separate investigations of paranormal phenomena, each seeking to prove their conviction. Momo's quest takes an unexpected turn when she is abducted by aliens, an ordeal that inadvertently unblocks her chakras and awakens a formidable array of latent psychic powers. Simultaneously, Okarun finds himself possessed by a powerful spirit, thrusting both into a bewildering new reality. Together, they must navigate a world teeming with supernatural threats, from mischievous yōkai to advanced extraterrestrial beings. Their journey is far from solitary, as they gather an eccentric cohort of allies—friends, family, and fellow students—to aid them in their escalating battles. Amidst the chaos, the anime introduces wonderfully peculiar plotlines, such as Okarun's earnest and often hilarious search to recover his missing testicles, and Momo's harrowing struggle with a mysterious curse that shrinks her and erases her presence from the awareness of those around her. DAN DA DAN brilliantly balances intense, dynamically animated supernatural confrontations with moments of genuine humor and the tender, evolving romantic tension between its protagonists. With its truly unique blend of horror, sci-fi, and teen rom-com tropes, coupled with Science SARU's distinctive animation style and rich character interactions, DAN DA DAN offers a fresh, exhilarating, and unforgettable experience for fans across multiple genres.
Opinion
DAN DA DAN stands as a testament to innovative storytelling, distinguishing itself as a brilliantly unconventional anime that seamlessly fuses diverse genres into a cohesive and utterly engaging narrative. Its foundational strength lies in its remarkable ability to merge the chilling aspects of supernatural horror with the boundless imagination of science fiction, all while maintaining a sharp, often irreverent comedic tone that keeps the audience captivated. The core dynamic between Momo and Okarun is exceptionally compelling; their contrasting belief systems not only fuel humorous banter but also serve as a catalyst for profound emotional development and growth. The storyline expertly balances wild, unpredictable supernatural battles with intimate, character-driven moments, most notably the bizarre yet endearing subplot involving Okarun's unusual quest and Momo's harrowing struggle with a unique curse. Visually, the animation by Science SARU is a true masterpiece – vibrant, incredibly fluid, and wonderfully exaggerated, it amplifies the show's madcap energy and emotional beats with breathtaking precision. The creative team's meticulous craft is evident in every evocative sakuga sequence, elevating the series' artistic prestige. Furthermore, Kensuke Ushio's expertly crafted soundtrack perfectly complements the series' eclectic tone, with pulse-pounding scores that heighten suspense and perfectly underscore comedic timing. The voice acting, though specific artists are currently N/A, is executed with a dynamism that breathes life into the eccentric cast, ensuring every quip and emotional outburst resonates. Overall, DAN DA DAN delivers fresh, genre-bending storytelling within the supernatural realm, combining thrilling action, heartfelt character moments, and genuinely laugh-out-loud comedy, making it an absolute must-watch for anyone seeking an original, exhilarating, and profoundly entertaining anime experience.
Characters
Momo Ayase
Voice: N/A
Ken Takakura (Okarun)
Voice: N/A
Credits
Studio
Science SARU
Cover Art
Science SARU Art Team
Publisher
Shueisha
Producers
Science SARU, DANDADAN Production Committee, Shueisha