Dan Da Dan's Most Controversial Scene Has an Heartbreaking Explanation

It hasn't taken long for Dan Da Dan to establish itself as a shocking, unpredictable, and overall strange series. And as the anime continues to push forward at an impressive, breakneck pace, it's also revealing itself to be hiding some truly moving, emotional, and wholesome writing. The budding romance between Momo and Okarun has already captured the hearts of the anime-watching community, despite some controversies surrounding the first episode.

The series received some backlash following its first episode for its depiction of sensitive subjects, as well as for a controversial scene of Momo being almost sexually assaulted by aliens. While that scene remains troublesome due to Momo's age in the series, it was not just fanservice or shock value. Momo's predicament led to Turbo Granny - possessing Okarun's body - coming to her help, and the reason for this unusual behavior from a ravenous ghost is actually heartbreaking.

Momo's Controversial Scene in Dan Da Dan's First Episode Serves a Purpose

Turbo Granny Is More Caring Than She Seems

Turbo Granny's first words shocked many viewers who went into Dan Da Dan without any prior knowledge of the series. Not only could the ghostly entity run at speeds rivaling trains and cars, but she also revealed herself to have a dangerous obsession with eating "weenies". However, following Turbo Granny's defeat in Episode #4, the spirits of several young girls and women were shown to evaporate alongside the Yokai, signaling that her obsession is rooted in tragedy.

Seiko revealed that Turbo Granny appeared in that tunnel following the senseless deaths of girls at the hands of abusive and monstrous men, and she acted as a comforting figure to their souls as they passed on. For that reason, when boys or men traveled into that tunnel, Turbo Granny would act aggressively. While attacking the living is justification enough for Momo and Okarun's defeat of the dangerous entity, her reason for doing so rightfully attracted the sympathy of fans.

Turbo Granny Purposefully Saved Momo in Episode #1

The Dangerous Ghost Came to Another Girl's Rescue

Following Okarun's run-in with Turbo Granny in Episode #1, the focus is shifted to Momo being held captive in the creepy Serpoian UFO. The scene isn't an easy watch, and places Momo in a vulnerable position, before Turbo Granny bursts from out of her cell phone and begins wreaking havoc on the alien lifeforms. Initially, it wasn't made certain why she would come to the rescue, given her usual aggressiveness. But with the added context of Turbo Granny being a sort of protector of young girls, it makes perfect sense.

She likely heard what was happening through the phone while possessing Okarun, and decided to come to the rescue of another girl in need. This proves that while Dan Da Dan may make headlines for its outrageous scenes and controversial choices, it's actually a very thoughtful series that hides a lot behind its rowdy surface. While some fans may still find Momo's scene in the first episode disturbing, Turbo Granny's backstory at least adds some context to it, proving it was not mere fanservice.

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.

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