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Before being adapted into an anime, Yukinobu Tatsu's Dandadan became an online sensation, captivating readers with its chaotic storytelling, outrageous panel techniques, and hilarious innuendo. Its sheer madness shattered conventional manga norms, earning it the reputation of a “new generation of Japanese manga.”

However, the anime adaptation fails to capture the same excitement as its source material. While Dandadan starts off strong with its absurd premise, intriguing romance subplot, and, most notably, its fast-paced, vibrant animation, a rarity in 2020s anime after Bocchi the Rock!, it gradually loses momentum especially in the latter part of the series.

As the series progresses, the pacing becomes inconsistent, struggling to ... translate the manga’s visual madness into animation. The dialogue and scenes often feel overly wordy and unnecessary, while its once-refreshing gimmicks start to feel repetitive, diminishing the element of surprise. Worst of all, the final episode is a major letdown, coming off as a blatant cash grab that forces viewers to follow the second season.

With its initial boldness and zany energy, Dandadan had the potential to be “the new FLCL,” setting a gold standard for blending chaotic storytelling with dynamic animation. Unfortunately, the anime takes a much safer route, wasting all its potential by the end.