Dan Da Dan Anime Series Episode 1: That’s How Love Starts, Ya Know! (2024) – Weebz Club Score: 9/10 “An Audacious and Energetic Premiere That Masterfully Blends the Supernatural, the Extraterrestrial, and Comedy, Proving That Even Horror Aficionados Can Find Delight.”
“That’s How Love Starts, Ya Know!”, the inaugural episode of the Dan Da Dan anime series, bursts onto the scene with an electrifying energy that immediately defies expectations. The episode introduces us to Momo Ayase, a high school girl hailing from a lineage of spirit mediums, and Ken “Okarun” Takakura, a classmate with an unwavering fascination for extraterrestrials. Their initial interactions are marked by a spirited debate, a clash of beliefs concerning the existence of spectral entities and otherworldly beings. To put their theories to the test, they embark on a dual investigation: Momo ventures to an abandoned hospital notorious for UFO sightings, while Okarun braves a tunnel steeped in tales of spiritual activity. These contrasting expeditions serve not only to challenge their deeply held convictions but also to firmly plant the seeds for their future adventures, which promise a wild ride through the realms of both yōkai and aliens. As a viewer who typically shies away from the horror genre, the sheer popularity of Dan Da Dan was the sole impetus for starting this series. However, the first episode proved to be an overwhelmingly impressive experience. The art, style, motion, and character design are nothing short of spectacular. Despite its core themes of horror and the supernatural, the episode transcends its genre, presenting itself more as a comedic artistic spectacle. This unique setup, executed with breathtaking flair, has managed to craft a horror-infused show that is not only watchable but genuinely enjoyable, even for those with absolutely no prior interest in the genre.
A Collision of Beliefs
- Momo’s Supernatural Roots: Momo Ayase, steeped in the traditions of her spirit medium family, serves as the audience’s initial anchor into the world of the supernatural. Her grounded skepticism, coupled with her inherent connection to the spiritual, provides a relatable entry point into the bizarre events that unfold.
- Okarun’s Extraterrestrial Obsession: Ken “Okarun” Takakura’s fascination with aliens offers a fascinating counterpoint to Momo’s focus on the spectral. His eager pursuit of the unknown, albeit of a different nature, creates a compelling dynamic. The decision to visit locations steeped in both lore—a UFO hotspot and a spiritual hotbed—is a brilliant narrative device to bring these contrasting beliefs into direct conflict.
A Visually Arresting Experience
- Art, Style, and Motion: The animation and art direction of Dan Da Dan are immediately striking. The character designs are distinct and memorable, imbuing each individual with a palpable personality. The motion is fluid, dynamic, and often breathtaking, especially during sequences that hint at the supernatural or extraterrestrial encounters. This visual flair elevates the entire viewing experience, making it feel like a truly premium production.
- Comedy as a Bridge: What truly sets this episode apart, even for a non-horror fan, is its masterful integration of comedy. The interactions between Momo and Okarun, the absurdity of their chosen investigation sites, and the underlying tonal balance ensure that the series feels less like a fright-fest and more like a thrilling, character-driven comedic adventure with supernatural elements. This approach makes the potentially terrifying aspects accessible and even enjoyable.
Reinventing the Genre
A Compelling Hook: For those who might typically avoid the horror genre, Dan Da Dan‘s first episode acts as a powerful invitation. It demonstrates that supernatural stories can be thrilling, visually stunning, and genuinely fun, even when exploring darker themes. The unique setup is a testament to creative storytelling, making it an enjoyable watch regardless of one’s usual genre preferences.
Spectacular Execution: The episode’s success lies in its spectacular execution of a unique concept. It takes elements that could easily become cliché or overly frightening and imbues them with a fresh, energetic, and often humorous perspective. The creators have evidently prioritized entertainment and artistic expression, ensuring that the supernatural elements serve the narrative and character development without overwhelming the viewer.
