DAN DA DAN (2024)

Dan Da Dan (Japanese: ダンダダン) is a vibrant 2024 Japanese anime series that exploded onto the scene with its genre-bending mix of action, comedy, sci-fi, and romance, adapted from Yukinobu Tatsu’s manga and produced by Science SARU. Airing from October 4 to December 20, 2024, on MBS and TBS’s Super Animeism Turbo block, this 12-episode first season—each episode 24 minutes—follows high schoolers Momo Ayase (voiced by Shion Wakayama) and Ken 'Okarun' Takakura (Natsuki Hanae), who spark a bet to prove ghosts (Momo’s belief) or aliens (Okarun’s obsession) exist, only to awaken psychic powers and a curse, respectively, while battling paranormal chaos. Boasting an 8.4/10 IMDb rating, 22 nominations at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and a 2024 Anime News Network Top 10 ranking, it’s hailed as a 'breakout hit' for its dazzling animation and irreverent humor, though some note its raunchy gags may not suit all tastes. The series dazzles with unforgettable moments: Momo’s abduction by aliens unlocks her chakra-fueled psychic abilities, while Okarun’s possession by Turbo Granny, a demonic spirit, grants him cursed speed, leading to a wild tag game in a haunted tunnel to lift the curse. Standout scenes include the psychedelic art gallery fight in episode 6, where Momo’s grandmother Seiko (Nana Mizuki) unleashes spiritual prowess, and the cliffhanger finale, 'Let’s Go to the Cursed House,' teasing the Evil Eye arc, with Jiji (Aleks Le) and a snake deity looming. Science SARU’s animation—think Devilman Crybaby’s zaniness—pops with Yoshimichi Kameda’s alien designs and Kensuke Ushio’s pulsating score, while Creepy Nuts’ 'Otonoke' opening hit No. 1 on Billboard Japan for 20 weeks. Critics praise its 'lovable protagonists' and vibrant visuals, though some find the humor 'over-the-top.' The first three episodes, screened theatrically as Dan Da Dan: First Encounter from August 31, 2024, set a high bar. With a second season confirmed for July 3, 2025, and a theatrical compilation, Dan Da Dan: Evil Eye, premiering globally from May 30, 2025, Dan Da Dan is a cultural juggernaut, its manga surpassing 5 million copies by December 2024. Produced in Japan by Mainichi Broadcasting System, it reflects 2024’s anime renaissance, blending shounen action with teen romance. It’s a must-watch for fans of Jujutsu Kaisen or Chainsaw Man, delivering a whirlwind of ghosts, aliens, and young love that’s as heartfelt as it is unhinged—just brace for some 'horny' spirits and banana puns.