Dandadan can seem so unserious at first. What with its ridiculous foundations, its even weirder subplots, and its character dynamic, the range of the show feels so huge, which is why I haven't reviewed it before.
While I know the show can go so many more places so easily, I have to say I think by now I can conclude: this show would struggle to go wrong. It is incredibly good.
Both in source and adaptation, this anime is without many flaws. I had questions about the pacing of episodes 5 and 6, but I realised the slow build was for a high point at 7, which I think completely resolves the pacing issues I feared. The plot, as I mentioned, has such a range, bringing in supernatural horror and sci-fi horror into one light, comedic and compelling storyline. I have laughed at this show, but I'd say more impressively, I've cried at this show. This is the range of Dandadan.
As well as just the plot, the adaptation is amazing. Science Saru's animation is always exceptional, but it's those aspirational, absurd and weird choices they make in framing, angles and movements which make their shows feel so authentic. The voice acting performances, especially for the Japanese leads for Ayase and Okarun are genuinely incredible, with both having a really good range of performances. That's needed for a show that works on two levels, as both a slice of live and as a supernatural shonen action, and a drama on top of that.
Doing so much makes Dandadan so hard to categorise, but I'd say most watchers will love this show. It is fast becoming a favourite for me and I'm sure I won't be alone on that.
10/10. An Autumn must-watch.