Dan Da Dan's Anime Is Going Beyond the Manga by Adding One of the Best Animated Sequences of the Year

Warning: SPOILERS for Episode #4 of Dan Da Dan

Dan Da Dan’s anime stands out for its beautiful animation in a season where two highly anticipated series like Uzumaki and Blue Lock Season 2 have disappointed fans with lackluster adaptations. Consequently, the anime became the season's hit, not for presenting a copycat adaptation of the manga, but for what it adds to the original story. While the creative decision to include original scenes isn’t always well received in some animes, the changes made in Dan Da Dan live up to the feeling of the manga and fans' expectations.

This was showcased in Dan Da Dan’s episode 4, which gave Momo and Okarun’s powers a chance to shine even brighter, thanks to a remarkable change in the adaptation of the game of tag against Turbo Granny. After Momo and Okarun are cornered by the Earthbound Spirit Crab and a horde of spirits, the anime includes an incredible original sequence, captivating enough to compete as one of the best of the year.

Momo and Okarun's Escape Features Anime Original Content To Create One of the Best Persecution Scenes

Dan Da Dan’s Anime Brings the Best Out of the Manga

In Dandadan’s chapter 7, when Momo and Okarun are surrounded by the Earthbound Spirit Crab and the spirits from the nearby cemetery summoned by Turbo Granny, the manga only shows a page of Okarun using his full speed to run away, with 3 panels featuring a tunnel vision effect and motion lines to give a sense of high speed. But in the anime, Momo uses her powers to redirect and launch both of them so Okarun can run through the buildings, and she even throws a car at the giant crab to make time for them to get away.

Another additional scene is Momo seeing the bullet train, and getting the idea to use it to escape later, and how she makes them temporarily float to soften their landing, which serves to highlight the moment where she lets go of Turbo Granny, which is only mentioned in the manga. This extended sequence gave more meaning to Momo’s words about how Okarun should trust in her and use his power, as it was shown she was just as vital for their survival as him. Additionally, the whole chase showcases their chemistry and trust in each other.

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Dan Da Dan Anime Makes A Small Change That Is A Big Improvement Over One Early Fight

Dan Da Dan episode 3 introduces Momo’s grandma and features a granny clash that shows how the anime is improving the manga with a subtle change.

Moreover, as Momo and Okarun have to rely on their wits and quick thinking to get away, this helps to build up their teamwork, which is an endearing part of their relationship and one of the unique parts of Dan Da Dan's story. As a result, this chasing sequence was more visually striking than in the manga and conveyed the fast-paced, gripping and intense tension of a real persecution, becoming one of the most memorable sequences of the year that can compete with iconic anime chases, like Gon and Killua escaping from the Phantom Troupe in Hunter X Hunter.

Science SARU Enhancing Even the Smallest Scenes Shows The Promising Future of the Anime

The Anime Original Moments in Dan Da Dan Enrich the Series for Manga Readers

Studio Science SARU set out to do a faithful adaptation and justice to Dan da dan’s story, which was a difficult task because of the detailed and complex art of the manga, which balances between genres and presents sudden tone shifts that don’t always translate well in animation. However, the studio centered on things that can only be expressed through anime, highlighting especially the use of color and music score. Furthermore, the attention to detail to improve a seemingly small scene in the manga like Momo and Okarun running away, shows the compromise and dedication of Dan Da Dan’s production team.

These extra scenes in Dan Da Dan were elevated by the high-energy remix of two famous classical music pieces, the William Tell Overture and Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld, the Galop infernal that gives a feeling of frantic chase commonly used in old cartoons and improves the experience of the anime for manga readers. This reveals the potential of the anime to capture the absurdity of the story, which is enhanced by compelling animation and voice acting that is nothing but amazing. Dan Da Dan has shown that it is a satisfying adaptation that only keeps improving with each episode.

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.

Cast Natsuki Hanae , Shion Wakayama , Nana Mizuki , Ayane Sakura , Kaito Ishikawa , Mayumi Tanaka , Kazuya Nakai , Kaori Maeda , Miyu Tomita , Ryûnosuke Watanuki , Hikaru Tanaka , Seitaro Taniguchi , Satomi Kobashi , Mayuko Kazama , Ryuuzaburou Ootomo

Character(s) Ken Okarun Takakura , Momo Ayase , Seiko , Aira Shiratori , Jin Jiji Enjōji , Turbo Granny , Serpoians , Miko , Muko , Momo's Boyfriend , Male Student A , Male Student B , Elementary School Boy , Flatwoods Monster

Release Date September 13, 2024

Seasons 1