Three years ago I was recommended a manga which I was told would be the next big thing. Since then, my favourite AniTubers with the likes of Gigguk, Ah Lecks, and Scamboli Reviews have repeatedly mentioned that when and if this series gets an anime adaptation, it will take the world by storm.

And that day has finally come.

From the studio that brought us Devilman Crybaby and more recently Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, Science SARU has officially released DAN DA DAN which is a series that has received critical acclaim for its chaotic mash-up of horror, heart, and humour, infused with the kind of emotional depth and outrageous absurdity that fans of crave. This makes sense given that it’s created by none other than Yukinobu Tatsu, a former assistant to both Tatsuki Fujimoto and Yuuji Kaku, the mangaka for Chainsaw Man and Hell’s Paradise respectively.

Whether you’re in it for the mind-bending paranormal twists, the beautifully animated battles, or the unexpectedly touching moments, DAN DA DAN promises to deliver a unique and unforgettable experience.

A Whirlwind of Paranormal Shenanigans

At its core, DAN DA DAN revolves around two very different high school students: Momo Ayase, a bold and brash girl who believes in spirits, and Okarun, an awkward outcast obsessed with aliens. After a fateful encounter where Momo steps in to protect Okarun from bullies, the two strike up an unlikely friendship. Their bond, however, is built on a strange wager—Momo doesn’t believe in aliens, and Okarun doesn’t believe in spirits, so they set out to prove each other wrong. Momo heads to a UFO hotspot, while Okarun explores a haunted tunnel, and to their shock, both of them end up being right. Momo gets abducted by aliens, while a yokai possesses Okarun.

This wild premise kicks off a series of increasingly bizarre events that thrust the duo into the middle of a supernatural battle, where they must confront not only aliens and yokai but also their own evolving abilities. As the story unfolds, Momo and Okarun learn to navigate this strange new reality, teaming up with friends, family, and unexpected allies to fend off otherworldly threats. What’s most engaging about their journey, though, is the emotional undercurrent that flows beneath all the chaos. These aren’t just random paranormal adventures—they’re deeply personal challenges that force both characters to confront their fears, their pasts, and their own beliefs.

A Bizarre World Made Beautiful

If there’s one thing DAN DA DAN nails, it’s the visual execution of its chaotic and absurd world. The original manga is known for its intricate art style, blending the grotesque with the surreal, and the anime adaptation, produced by Science SARU, brings that energy to life in vivid detail. From the monstrous yokai with their unsettling designs to the high-octane action scenes that feel like they’re bursting off the screen, every frame of DAN DA DAN is packed with dynamic movement and imaginative flair. It’s the kind of anime where you can pause any scene and be greeted by a beautifully composed work of art.

Science SARU, best known for projects like Devilman Crybaby and Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, has a reputation for creating visually striking shows, and they’ve outdone themselves here. One of the standout aspects of the adaptation is how it uses colour to enhance the storytelling. The show isn’t just content with bright, eye-popping animation—each battle, and each tense moment is drenched in a palette that reflects the emotions at play. From eerie blues and purples that signal impending doom to bursts of vibrant red and gold in the heat of battle, the colour choices add an extra layer of intensity to every scene. Episode 2, for example, plays with stark black and white during a fight at Momo’s home, heightening the sense of danger and doom in an almost cinematic way.

The character designs are also a highlight, with fan favourites like Turbo Granny and the Flatwoods Monster brought to life in all their grotesque glory. These aren’t your typical villains—Turbo Granny is a speed demon who looks like something out of a fever dream, while the Flatwoods Monster is a hulking force of destruction that commands the screen whenever it appears. Both are equal parts terrifying and hilarious, a balance that’s hard to strike but DAN DA DAN pulls it off seamlessly.

Characters that Defy Expectations

What really sets DAN DA DAN apart, however, is the depth of its characters. At first glance, Momo and Okarun seem like a classic odd couple—Momo, with her tough, no-nonsense attitude, contrasts sharply with Okarun’s shy, nerdy demeanour. But as the show progresses, it becomes clear that these two are far more than their archetypes. Their opposing beliefs in spirits and aliens come from deeply personal experiences, and watching them navigate those beliefs while also forming a deep bond is one of the show’s greatest strengths.

Momo, raised by her grandmother who is a spiritual medium, has grown up surrounded by the supernatural. Her belief in spirits is rooted in her love for her grandmother, who helped her cope with the loss of her parents at a young age. For Momo, spirits are a reminder of the connections that transcend life and death. Okarun, on the other hand, found solace in the idea of aliens as a child. Bullied and isolated, he latched onto the belief that somewhere out there, beings existed who wouldn’t judge him. His belief in extraterrestrials became a source of comfort and hope during his most difficult times.

This emotional depth transforms what could have been a typical “monster-of-the-week” anime into something more. Momo and Okarun aren’t just fighting off aliens and yokai—they’re also confronting their own fears, insecurities, and the parts of themselves they’ve kept hidden. Their growth feels authentic and earned, making their relationship one of the most engaging elements of the series. Watching these two lonely kids find companionship in each other while battling the forces of the unknown is both heartwarming and exciting.

The Perfect Blend of Horror & Humour

One of the trickiest balancing acts in DAN DA DAN is its ability to juggle horror and comedy, and it does so with remarkable finesse. The show leans heavily into its supernatural horror roots, with some truly unsettling creatures and intense moments of suspense. The designs of the yokai and aliens are grotesque, often unsettling, and feel straight out of a horror manga. But just when you think things are getting too dark, the show throws in a curveball of absurd humour that lightens the mood.

Take Turbo Granny, for instance—an old woman who’s not only terrifyingly fast but also fixated on stealing human genitals. It’s a bizarre combination of horror and comedy that somehow works, turning what could have been a disturbing encounter into something laugh-out-loud ridiculous. This constant oscillation between tension and humour keeps the viewer on their toes, never quite knowing whether the next moment will be one of genuine fear or offbeat hilarity.

This blend of genres gives DAN DA DAN a unique charm. While it could easily dive into the grim and eerie like other supernatural anime, it instead opts for a more playful approach. The show isn’t afraid to poke fun at its own absurdity, and that self-awareness makes it all the more enjoyable. It’s a breath of fresh air in a genre that often takes itself too seriously, offering a fun, unpredictable experience that stands out from the crowd.

Why DAN DA DAN Is a Must-Watch

In a year brimming with high-profile anime adaptations, DAN DA DAN carves out its own niche with a perfect blend of supernatural horror, absurd comedy, and genuine heart. It’s a show that isn’t afraid to take risks—whether it’s blending genres, pushing the boundaries of animation, or telling a deeply personal story amidst all the chaos. With a cast of lovable misfits, a world filled with bizarre and terrifying creatures, and a visual style that keeps you glued to the screen, DAN DA DAN is set to be one of 2024’s standout anime.

Whether you’re a fan of horror and comedy, or just looking for something that breaks the mould, DAN DA DAN has something for everyone. Its unique storytelling, stunning animation, and memorable characters make it a must-watch for any anime lover. So, if you’re ready for an adventure that’s as heartwarming as it is hilarious, buckle up—DAN DA DAN is about to take you on a wild, unforgettable ride.

Final Score: 80/100

SUB or DUB?

Both are actually well-done; we would recommend either as they’re done with love and care. Check out the comparisons between Japanese and English dub VOs on the video below.