Dandadanis quickly becoming one of this year’s standout anime releases, thanks to Science Saru’s masterful adaptation of Yukinobu Tatsu’s original work. The series delivers thrilling action paired with meaningful character development as its narrative unfolds. While its vibrant animation and eccentric humor initially seemed to be its defining strengths, recent episodes have revealed far greater depth.
A closer look at the recent episodes reveals thatDandadanemploys a storytelling approach similar toDemon Slayerin showcasing depth. Through its interesting villains and with top-notch animation quality,Dandadanmirrors the profound narrative technique that has become a hallmark ofDemon Slayer, paving its own way to success.
Demon SlayerAndDandadan’s Greatest Quality Is Their Deep Storytelling
Going Beyond Their Amazing Animations, Both Series Showcase Meaningful Storytelling
The first few episodes ofDemon Slayersuggested the anime would primarily focus on stunning animation and action. However, as the story unfolded, it revealed significant depth in its narrative. One of the early moments that subtly highlights this depth occurs in episode #7, where, after defeating a demon, Tanjiro advises the spouse of the demon’s victim to find a way to move on despite the tragedy. This moment poignantly reflectsthe gravity of Tanjiro’s journey. Having lost his entire family except for Nezuko, he must persevere for the sake of others.
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Similarly,Dandadandelivers its turning point of depth and tragedy in episode #4. After defeating Turbo Granny, Seiko Ayase reveals the heartfelt reason behind the entity’s appearance in specific locations. This revelation demonstrates that Turbo Granny, initially perceived as a comical first villain,is actually a lot deeper than it seems, and carries significant purpose in her actions. However, the similarity betweenDandadanandDemon Slayerextends beyond the depth of their characters; it lies in how their villains are intricately portrayed within the narrative.
OneDandadanScene Proves It’s FollowingDemon Slayer’s Most Beautiful Pattern
By Exploring the Backstories of the Villains After Heavy Action, the Narrative Becomes Even More Impactful
As more demons were introduced, theDemon Slayeranime began to reveal the reasons behind their existence. Through its primary villains, starting with Lower Moon Six, the series delves into their journeys and how they became human-eating demons.Nearly every villain’s backstory stems from a tragic pastwhere, as humans, they endured immense hardship and ultimately chose a dark path after being rejected by society.
This pattern is profoundly illustrated in the second yokai villain ofDandadan. Theheartbreaking backstory of Acrobatic Silkyrevealed in episode #7, is deeply moving and sure to bring tears to anyone’s eyes. What makes these backstories even more impactful is how they are consistently unveiled after intense action sequences. Interestingly,Demon Slayerhas long employed this narrative pattern, and withDandadanfollowing suit with its two yokai villains, it is becoming evident that this approach will extend to every upcoming antagonist.
Additionally, the impact these villains have on the main characters has consistently contributed to their growth. Following the latest incident, it is becoming clear that Momo and Okarun will begin to view ghosts from a new perspective, showing greater empathy towards them, similar to how Tanjiro, despite losing his family to demons,continually displays deep mercy for them. While the core similarities betweenDandadanandDemon Slayerform their strongest connection, other parallels further solidify whyDandadanis emerging asDemon Slayer’s true successor.
DandadanandDemon Slayer’s Similarities Go Beyond Their Most Heartbreaking Quality
Stellar Animation Is the Best Way To Sell These Great Stories
WhileDemon SlayerandDandadanexcel in conveying genuine struggle and emotional depth, it is ultimately thequality of animation that captures the public’s attention. Ufotable has done an exceptional job adapting theDemon Slayer manga, going above and beyond by incorporating original anime scenes. The latest season ofDemon Slayerexemplifies Ufotable’s dedication, as they expanded an entire season with original anime content, even though the manga covered this storyline in just ten chapters.
The use of 3D CGI elements has always been a controversial topic within the anime community. However, Ufotable has consistently implemented it subtly, ensuringit enhances rather than detracts from the animation’s overall quality. Similarly,Dandadan, despite having only one season, is already incorporating these elements for valid reasons. The series' director recently explained the choice, revealing a thematic connection behind the portrayal of different types of villains.
Dandadanprimarily features two types of villains: ghosts and aliens. In a recent interview, it was explained that for Yokai, a warm color palette is used, reflecting their connection to humans. In contrast, extraterrestrial beings are depicted with cold color palettes and are often modeled using 3D CGI. Furthermore,Dandadanis already embracing original anime scenes, as seen in anextended sequence from episode #4where Okarun flees from Turbo Granny with Momo on his back. This scene spans almost two minutes in the anime, whereas the manga concludes it within a single page.
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Lastly, another reasonDandadanmight feel reminiscent ofDemon Slayer is that the male leads, Tanjiro Kamado and Ken Takakura,share the same voice actor. That said, while the two series share notable similarities,Dandadanis also shaping up to be a culmination of the best elements from shōnen anime released over decades.
DandadanIsn’t Just a Good Shōnen Series, It’s the Culmination of the Best Shōnen Storytelling
Romance and Action Blend Perfectly Together
AlthoughDandadanis a shōnen series, it is quickly proving to be one of the most revolutionary in the genre over the past decade. One of its standout qualities is its ability to incorporateromance as a central theme, whereas many other series struggle to maintain it even as a secondary element. At the same time, its main storyline carries a mature tone, akin toChainsaw Man, unafraid to explore darker scenes and humor to emphasize its themes.
Dan Da Dan Officially Confirms It’s Jujutsu Kaisen’s True Successor By Revisiting The Hit Shonen’s Big Theme
Besides featuring mature comedy, Dan Da Dan draws inspiration from Jujutsu Kaisen’s core theme of curses born from people’s negative feelings.
WhileDandadanfollowsDemon Slayer’s approach of delving into its villains' backstories after battles, the foundation for its ghosts is reminiscent of the cursed spirits inJujutsu Kaisen. The existence of these ghosts and spirits often originates from acts of inhumanity. Therefore, by weaving elements from some of the most successful shōnen anime,Dandadanis not only establishing itself asDemon Slayer’s successor but also emerging as one of the best shōnen series in years.
Dandadan
Cast
Two high school students, embroiled in a wager to prove the existence of ghosts or aliens, encounter daunting paranormal threats, acquire superpowers, and possibly discover love. The series blends supernatural elements with personal dynamics as the protagonists navigate their newfound abilities and unexpected challenges.
