Yukinobu Tatsu's Dandadan is one of the latest shonen manga series to quickly captivate readers. With 137 chapters, it has amassed a large fanbase in under three years and is now being adapted into an anime set to premiere in Fall 2024.
Though the exact release date has not been confirmed, it is anticipated to debut around October 2024 and will be animated by the esteemed studio Science SARU. While the rating for the anime adaptation has not been designated, manga enthusiasts are anticipating it to earn an 18+ rating for good reason.
Explaining the reason for Dandadan being considered a mature series
Yukinobu Tatsu's Dandadan series has a fascinating premise that takes place in a different world. The story revolves around two high school students, Momo Ayase and Ken Takakura, with the former often calling the latter Okarun.
One day, Momo rescues Okarun from bullies, sparking a shared interest in the supernatural. However, their differing beliefs - Okarun in aliens and Momo in spirits - lead to a heated argument.
Ultimately, they decide to settle the problem with a bet, letting the outcome determine who is right. Momo opts to visit a location rumored to have experienced alien activity, while Okarun chooses a place believed to be haunted. But upon reaching the locations, it becomes clear that both were partially correct - aliens and spirits do indeed exist.
While exploring a secluded tunnel, Okarun unexpectedly encountered a spirit named Turbo Granny, who attempted to possess him and steal his private parts. Meanwhile, Momo stumbled upon a group of aliens known as the Serpoians, who were seeking a reproduction method other than cloning. As their encounters turned into nightmares, a series of events would change their lives forever as they tried to survive encounters with both spirits and aliens while navigating their feelings for each other.
With such an intriguing premise, Dandadan promises to provide an exhilarating and over-the-top adventure that will captivate fans worldwide. However, one aspect of the series has generated significant interest in recent weeks. As Dandadan is confirmed to receive an anime adaptation, there is speculation about whether it will also receive an A rating for mature audiences.
Fans of the Dandadan manga are well aware of the answer. Although the show's plot and overarching theme revolve mostly around comedy, certain elements may not be appropriate for younger viewers. The frequent inclusion of mature humor in the series is clearly targeted at adult audiences.
Additionally, the occasional non-explicit nudity and depiction of characters in underwear, as well as the Serpoians' pursuit of reproduction and Turbo Granny's fixation on stealing Okarun's reproductive organs, indicate that the show is not suitable for younger viewers, despite being a shonen series.
Moreover, the Dandadan manga explores mature and intellectually stimulating themes, such as existentialism, complex relationships, and the human experience. It delves into the more somber aspects of life, often incorporating vulgar humor to cater to a more mature audience.
Due to all these aspects, it is more than certain that Dandadan is certainly not meant for younger audiences and is set to be a relatively mature anime series.
Final Thoughts
Dandadan may not be the parents' first choice for kids' anime, but it offers a uniquely captivating supernatural journey that continuously defies expectations. Its rapidly growing fanbase is a testament to its quality, which will be showcased to the world upon its release in October 2024.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled about the upcoming anime adaptation of Dandadan. The manga has captivated me with its unique blend of comedy, horror, and thought-provoking themes. The premise of two high school students encountering both aliens and spirits is intriguing and sets the stage for an exciting adventure. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and their interactions are often hilarious.
However, I understand why Dandadan is being classified as a mature anime series. The humor can be quite vulgar at times, and there are occasional instances of nudity and sexual references. Additionally, the themes explored in the manga, such as existentialism and complex relationships, may not be suitable for younger viewers. I believe that the 18+ rating is appropriate and will ensure that the anime remains accessible to its intended audience.