Action & Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy
2024
Ayane Sakura, Kaito Ishikawa, Mayumi Tanaka
24 min
TLDR
Science SARU, you've done it again.
What it's about
Momo Ayase believes in ghosts, not aliens. Ken Takakura believes in aliens, not ghosts. Unfortunately for them, both are true, though thankfully, the powers that awaken in them might help them survive the occult alien world they’re thrown into.
The take
During adolescence, teenagers get to learn and discover themselves and the world, but for most people, this means going through puberty, maybe taking up a sport or hobby, and not the occult vs alien shenanigans of DAN DA DAN. The science fiction-fantasy mix is unhinged and chaotic, throwing Momo and Ken directly into the worlds they didn’t believe in, and with each crazy encounter, they gain insane powers that are rendered into (literally) out-of-this-world, kaleidoscopic animation. But it’s their comedic dynamic that makes the show work, as each absurd situation pushes them to share what makes them vulnerable and challenge each other on their beliefs. DAN DA DAN is spectacularly unpredictable, and is a standout from 2024’s anime fall lineup.
What stands out
If you’re used to the wholesome power of friendship familiar to shonen anime, DAN DA DAN’s humor and visuals can feel a tad explicit, with its ghosts and aliens obsessed with procreation and the human anatomy (to say it politely). However, considering that it’s precisely the sort of topic teenagers would be learning, it makes sense thematically.
The best anime ongoing currently very entertaining and funny as well.😂
Your name
Your comment
UP NEXT
UP NEXT
UP NEXT
More like this in
Ethos
A level of attention to aesthetics usually reserved for the most elaborate films, mixed with a complex and relevant story, make this series from Turkey unmatched in its quality
9.9
Caliphate
A psychological thriller that provides insight on what drove so many young people to ISIS.
8.9
Say Nothing
A powerful take on the Northern Ireland conflict that smartly shows all sides
8.5
Black Doves
A tale of espionage, romance, and friendship all tied in a neat bow, just in time for Christmas
7.6
Pretend it’s a City
A wildly entertaining series of interviews with a New York legend
9.2
Escape at Dannemora
Based on a true prison escape story, this slow-burn suspense thriller features once-in-a-lifetime performances by a star-studded cast
9.3
Sex Education
Already a future classic, Sex Education is an explicit but endlessly charming teen comedy that will also teach adults a thing or two.
8.9
Lovesick
Heavy on the rom but also the com, this British series is an effortless watch based on an unlikely premise
9.4
Feel Good
A charming Fleabag-esque take on LGBTQ+ love
7.0
Patriot
This unique anti-spy drama is one of Amazon Prime's hidden gems