Dandadan [Season 1-2]

Alright, let’s talk about Dandadan Seasons 1 and 2—because if you haven’t jumped on this wild train yet, you’re missing out on one of the most unapologetically chaotic, visually stunning, and weirdly heartfelt anime series in recent years. Produced by Science SARU (the studio behind Devilman Crybaby and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!), this show blends supernatural horror, slapstick comedy, and teen romance into a genre-defying mess that somehow works. Let’s break it down, using what we know from the anime’s production, plot, and the fans who can’t stop talking about it.

First off, let’s get the basics straight. Dandadan is adapted from Yukinobu Tatsu’s manga, which has been serialized in Shueisha’s Shōnen Jump+ since 2021. The anime’s first season premiered in October 2024, running until December, and Season 2 dropped in July 2025—so it’s fresh off the presses. The story follows Momo Ayase, a high schooler who believes in ghosts but not aliens, and Okarun, her classmate who’s the exact opposite (aliens yes, ghosts no). Their lives collide when they make a bet: Momo will visit a haunted tunnel, and Okarun will check out an alien hotspot. Spoiler: Both exist. What follows is a nonstop rollercoaster of alien invasions, ghostly curses, and a whole lot of “what the hell did I just watch?” moments.

Season 1 kicks off with Momo and Okarun’s fateful bet, leading them to encounter the Serpo aliens (who look like walking brains in loincloths—yes, really) and the Turbo Granny, a ghostly old woman with a penchant for… well, turbocharging things. The humor here is crude but hilarious: one of the most talked-about scenes involves Okarun getting his “manhood” stolen by aliens, leading to a quest to retrieve it that’s equal parts absurd and oddly touching. Fans on MyAnimeList raved about the animation in Season 1, with many calling it “fluid” and “visually striking”—Science SARU’s signature style, which mixes 2D and 3D elements, shines here. The opening theme, “Otonoke” by Creepy Nuts, became an instant hit, with its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics perfectly capturing the show’s chaotic energy.

But Dandadan isn’t just about laughs. It’s also got some surprisingly deep moments. Momo and Okarun’s relationship evolves from bickering rivals to reluctant allies, and their bond feels genuine. The show doesn’t shy away from darker themes either—like the trauma of being cursed or the fear of losing loved ones. For example, when Okarun is possessed by a ghost, Momo’s desperation to save him adds an emotional weight that balances out the absurdity. Fans noted this balance, with one MyAnimeList comment saying, “I didn’t expect to care so much about these characters, but here I am, crying over a guy who lost his penis to aliens.”

Now, onto Season 2. Picking up right where Season 1 left off, it dives into the Kito family arc—a storyline that’s been described as “creepier than the Serpo aliens” by multiple fans. The Kito family worships a serpent god, and their rituals are… let’s just say not for the faint of heart. The first episode of Season 2 throws Momo and Okarun into the thick of it, with Momo walking in on Okarun and Jiji (a ghostly cat-like creature) beaten up by aliens. The humor is still there—one fan joked about the “shot of Momo walking in on Okarun and Jiji beat up by a bunch of aliens in loincloth looked just wrong, lol”—but the horror elements are amped up. The Kito family’s practices are disturbing, and the serpent god they worship is a menacing presence that looms over the season.

Visually, Season 2 doesn’t disappoint. Science SARU continues to deliver top-notch animation, with fight scenes that are both dynamic and creative. The Turbo Granny makes a return, and her “Jennifer Lopez Anaconda” attack (yes, that’s what it’s called) is a highlight—fans loved the homage to the Buster Keaton hole-through-the-house gag during Momo’s escape from an onsen. The opening theme for Season 2, while not as iconic as Season 1’s, still has its own flair, though some fans felt it was a “downgrade.” One commenter noted, “The OP is a downgrade from S1, but it’s still catchy enough.”

What makes Dandadan stand out is its willingness to be weird. It’s not afraid to throw in random references—like the SpongeBob nod in Season 2—or to take risks with its storytelling. The show’s pacing is relentless; there’s never a dull moment. One fan summed it up best: “Dandadan is like if JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure and Mob Psycho 100 had a baby, and that baby was raised on energy drinks and horror movies.”

But it’s not all perfect. Some fans criticized Season 2 for its rushed feel—with 14 animation directors and 69 key animators listed in the credits for one episode, it’s clear the staff was under pressure. There were also complaints about the opening theme not living up to Season 1’s high bar. However, these issues are minor compared to the overall enjoyment. As one fan put it, “Even with the rushed animation, I can’t stop watching. This show is too addictive.”

Another thing to love about Dandadan is its community. Fans on MyAnimeList and other platforms are passionate, dissecting every episode and sharing theories. The pre-screening of Season 2’s first three episodes generated a lot of buzz, with fans praising the adaptation of the manga arc. One commenter said, “I watched the pre-screening at my local theater, and it was an enjoyable experience. They adapted the arc pretty well so far, and the animation is impressive.”

In conclusion, Dandadan is a must-watch for anyone who loves anime that doesn’t play by the rules. It’s funny, heartfelt, and visually stunning—with a cast of characters that will stick with you long after the credits roll. Whether you’re here for the absurd humor, the dynamic animation, or the surprisingly deep story, there’s something for everyone. As one fan perfectly put it, “Dandadan is the kind of show that makes you laugh, cry, and question your sanity—all in the same episode. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

So, if you’re looking for your next anime obsession, give Dandadan a try. Just be prepared to have your mind blown—literally and figuratively. And hey, if you end up loving it, join the conversation on MyAnimeList. Trust me, you won’t be alone.

Dandadan Seasons 1 and 2 are available on Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix. Go watch them. Now. Your sanity might thank you… or not. Either way, it’s worth it.