‘Dan Da Dan’ Season 1 Review: Horror & Fantasy Clashes In A Wild Supernatural Adventure

As a hardcore fan of supernatural horror and fantasy, Dan Da Dan is an anime that feels fresh and unique. The show’s premise is intriguing and exciting as these two genres are not really that different. Shows like Netflix’s The Sandman, Devilman Crybaby, and Tokyo Ghoul have already proven how well these themes can perfectly intertwine, and Dan Da Dan takes that idea and runs with it in its own quirky direction. What makes it special is its ability to blend supernatural chaos, heartfelt character moments, and a bit of humor into a single, messy but engaging series. It’s unpredictable, outrageous, and leaves you eager to see what’s coming next. Read our Dan Da Dan Season 1 review.

Dan Da Dan succeeds through its absurdity. Only few series would possibly fluctuate so wildly from grotesque horror to slapstick comedy, but this anime doesn’t hold back as much by doing it in grand fashion. It is not afraid to embrace its weirdness and that’s what makes it stand out from other anime. While other shows like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan keep a consistent tone, Dan Da Dan throws all reason into chaos and madness that feels fresh and unique.

Take Turbo Granny, for example. A grotesque and bizarre spirit who manages to be both horrifying and hilarious. Her melodramatic expressions and totally outlandish behavior became the essence of the very knack of the show on finding humor in horror. And the romantic subplot is again an unexpected highlight. Yes, it’s same as some animes out there, sure, it is unconventional and cheesy, but it is also in this layer of emotional depth that serves to ground the story, making those awkward moments make the characters feel so real.

I’m not really into Dan Da Dan‘s animation, but I’d still commend Science Saru’s style with its vivid, fluid, and absolutely apt action sequences for the show, making it thrilling by its quick and smooth choreography so that every battle comes to life in grand manner. The supernatural entities have been designed so well, especially in Okarun’s and Aira’s demon forms that they perfectly bring the show’s eerie and fantastical theme into one memorable visual. The gross yet somehow funny appearance of aliens like the Serpoians and Mr. Mantis Shrimp is a good example of how the show uses its visuals to amplify its tone.

The color palette is the thing I love the most of its visuals, it is bold and striking with every color bursting out gloriously. Shades of blue complement perfectly with minimal shades of red, or vice-versa during action sequences, adding emotional weight to those scenes. Whether it’s a pulse-pounding chase or a quiet moments, the animation sucks you in. Even with stammering pacing, the visuals keep you interested, which I think really makes the Dan Da Dan’s world as dynamic and engaging as it possibly is.

As much as I admire Dan Da Dan’s ambition, its genre-blending approach is a double-edged sword. The show’s sudden transitions between horror and comedy, or romance in serious action sequences sometimes jolt in ways that feel abrupt or out of place. And then, suddenly, after a dramatic scene, you get a slapstick gag that will underplay the tension of either one. The unpredictability of the show is all its charm but also makes it sometimes difficult to hold your breath in any place.

The pacing is another area the series struggles with. Important plot points felt rushed into episodes, giving little room for character development or emotional depth. Other scenes take too long to conclude and stall the momentum. It’s a delicate balance the show doesn’t always pull off. 

The humor of the show is also a mixed bag. On one hand, the comedy between the characters adds to the relatable, human factor of the supernatural chaos, and their awkward and endearing scenes are some of my favorite moments. However, the sexual humor and fan service just don’t work for me. While these elements do fit into the absurd tone of the story, sometimes they are felt to be gratuitous and take attention away from the story. It’s an issue that’s been a serious problem to most animes right now, where fan service often overshadows the plot.

But when the humor lands, it’s genuinely funny. The strength of the show’s humor lies in the comedy found in the most unlikeliest of places. It is not merely about slapstick gags and innuendo; it works well when its humor usually comes from reactions from characters toward absurd situations that bring them into.

It’s difficult not to draw comparisons between Dan Da Dan and other anime that try to balance humor with its absurdity. The chaotic energy and its premise defying genres is something akin to FLCL or Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt. However, it’s a bit different in those two for it takes an avant-garde attempt at storytelling, while Dan Da Dan tries to anchor in something closer to the current narrative structure in the anime industry. It does make for a rather unique flavor of things though, but it makes the series feel a bit disjointed at times.

The supernatural battles and comedic tone in Dan Da Dan draw comparisons with Soul Eater. But they contrast in characterization, as the latter benefits from a more streamlined supporting cast and a clear thematic focus that makes character journeys more meaningful compared to those in Dan Da Dan, which feel even the likability of the characters is sometimes driven by the plot rather than being actual people. This makes the story less emotionally resonant, even as it entertains with its wild unpredictability. I’m hopeful that a more careful and intentional story-telling and character-building will mature into greatness for its subsequent seasons.

With time and refinement, Dan Da Dan has the potential to become a standout series. For now, it’s an imperfect but compelling entry that’s worth a watch for those willing to dive into its bizarre world. In a medium full of formulaic offerings, Dan Da Dan‘s willingness to take risks is a breath of fresh air. It’s raw around the edges, but it is undoubtedly unforgettable as we wait for where the uncertain journey is headed.

Dan Da Dan’s first season is directed by Fuga Yamashiro, Rushio Moriyama, and Daiki Yonemori, and written by Hiroshi Seko. The series stars Natsuki Hanae, Shion Wakayama, Nana Mizuki, Mayumi Tanaka, Ayane Sakura, Kaito Ishikawa and more. All episodes of Dan Da Dan season 1 are now streaming on Netflix.

Thanks for reading, if you liked this review of Dan Da Dan season 1, check out more reviews here at Feature First!