So, since I was at a convention last week, I was unable to watch the new episode of DanDaDan. So, I’m combining my review for the last two episodes since they both continue the Evil Eye Arc! And as we have already seen multiple times by now, the Evil Eye is a problem, and will continue to be a problem until it’s gotten under control. But since Jiji is such a good person, that means that the family is going to have to do things the hard way. And as these two episodes demonstrate, this ragtag group has very much become a family.
So, after Jiji almost lets the Evil Eye out thanks to some room-temperature soy sauce, it becomes apparent that the Family can’t keep going like this. Fortuntately, the Hayashi that Seiko sent for arrive…and they double as a heavy metal band! In some cultures, music is said to have mystical properties and can banish supernatural evils, but this takes it to a whole new level! As a casual fan of heavy metal myself, I wholeheartedly approve of this creative decision. Especially since the anime does a great job of giving us the private concert that manga readers have waited years to see!
One might think that having Jiji decide to not exorcise the Evil Eye would make that entire scene pointless, but it wasn’t. It was a good source of entertainment, which is what stories are supposed to do. Plus, it’s likely that we’ll see the band again in a future arc. Until then, though, the group has to keep watching Jiji while they train to get stronger to stop the Evil Eye.
In all honesty, though, we can’t really fault Jiji for feeling sympathy for the Evil Eye. After what they went through in life, many people would end up as angry and vengeful as that yokai has become. This also isn’t the first time that a teenager has opted to try and befriend a demonic being calling their body home, either. Granted, Yuji never could get Sukuna on his side, but Naruto was able to win over Kurama the Nine-Tailed Fox, so there’s hope! Not that it doesn’t make it any easier when Jiji nearly loses control again and almost kills Momo. The look of guilt on his face is overwhelming. That is the look of someone who thinks they’re a burden and a monster. But more on that later; let’s talk about Momo’s new job!
MAID-O BEAM!!!
In light of the recent damage to her home, Momo has come to the decision that she needs to get a part-time job to help pay for repairs. That’s when her two gyaru friends come in clutch and land her one at a nearby cafe. However, they also do two things. Firstly, they mischeviously drag (literally drag) Okarun there while she’s working to embarass the two of them. Secondly, they neglect to tell her that this cafe in particular…is a maid cafe.
It takes a certain level of confidence to work in a restaruant that requires its employees to wear potentially embarassing attire. Normally, Momo has that kind of confidence down pat. When she’s forced to work in front Okarun, her mutual crush, though, it’s likely one of the most embarassing moments of her life up to that point! Anyone who has had the misfortune of being on the clock when their crush walks in on them can relate! Still, it does feel like it’s worth it when the two end up walking back to the Ayase home together. Sadly, this is also when the incident with the Evil Eye happens again, meaning it’s back to the seriousness.
The fact of the matter is that at this time, none of the Family can hold a candle to the Evil Eye. If they want to win, they need to get stronger fast, especially Okarun. Surprisingly, Turbo Granny proves quite forthcoming about ways to tap into her power more, bringing him to his school after dark, with Aira following out of curiosity/she’s simping for Okarun. She talks about having to maintain a steady rhythm or something during combat and how slow Okarun is. That matter can wait, though, as they have to fight haunted paintings.
…Wait, haunted paintings? Oh dear!
I Give “We Became a Family” and “Feeling Kinda Gloomy” a 4/5 and 3.5/5
When the world needed them most, DanDaDan returned!
Welcome back, everyone, to an all-new season of the megahit Shonen anime, DanDaDan. When it came out in the Fall of 2024, this anime set the entire world on fire. The animation was god-tier, the characters were hilarious, and the OP was so good, it wound up trending on YouTube. Not to mention how the episode โTo a Kinder Worldโ went down as one of the best moments in anime history. Needless to say, people have been eagerly awaiting its return, and are grateful we did not have to wait long. Especially since the first season ended on a big cliffhanger. Okarun and Jiji found a creepy room in Jijiโs house, and Momo was under attack from a gang of perverts. Anime-only fans wanted to know what happened next, and now is the time!
But first, letโs discuss the new OP, “On The Way” by AiNA THE END. As with the previous OP, fans are treated to a visual spectacle as they see Okarun, Momo, and their growing list of allies face the forces against them. Itโs got the same high-tier animation as before, if not better. At the same time, though, I feel like the song itself is a little softer. Itโs not as great a beat as that of โOTONOKEโ, but thatโs just my personal opinion.
Now, Where Were We?
The episode opens up right where we left off in December: Momo being attacked by perverts. Guys peeping on girls is not out of the ordinary in anime, but that doesnโt make it any less disturbing. Thankfully, the hot spring was falling apart, so Momo was able to escape unharmed. In addition, itโs revealed that Turbo Granny smuggled herself along for the ride because she wanted to enjoy the hot springs, and her cat body might have helped. Itโs good that sheโs not alone, but itโs unsettling to hear her say that the entire house is bad news. And she is absolutely right.
The short version: the locals have a legend about the nearby volcano being home to a dragon that will destroy the village unless it receives a sacrifice. And guess who the dragonโs priests are?
— DAN DA DAN Anime EN (@animeDANDADANen) July 4, 2025
Meet the Kito family, aka Jijiโs landlords and the perverts who tried to molest Momo. Theyโve been luring victims in for two hundred years and sacrificing them to the dragon to keep the volcano dormant and the hot springs running. Itโs like the sacrifice from The Wicker Man, but with a dragon. And Jiji, Okarun, and Momo are their victims this time. Naturally, none of them are keen on this happening, and they refuse to go down without a fight. However, once they arrive in the lair of the Tsuchinoko (the dragon), itโs revealed that itโs not a dragon. Itโs a cryptid called a Mongolian Death Worm.
As soon as we learned the โdragonโ was a Death Worm, I knew that things werenโt going to turn out how the Kito Family expected. That didnโt dampen the black comedy, though, when the beast chose to eat the Kito Family first. However, that doesnโt change the fact that the quartet is now facing a giant worm cryptid, and Okarun and Momo start tweaking out!
Tatsu is one of the best in the game rn when it comes to double page spreads. So I hope more of them get this kinda near 1 to 1 treatment later on too. ๐๐ฝ#DanDaDan#ShadzDanDaDanpic.twitter.com/v1pEr3qBw1
Man, what a good episode! DanDaDan is back and it is looking to be one of the best anime of the year for a second year in a row! Definitely looking forward to spending my summer watching this!
I Give โLike, This is the Legend of the Giant Snakeโ a 4/5
RJ Writing Inkโs List of Anime to Look Out For in 2025
Anime fans, we are going to be eating like kings this year.
By the time youโre reading this, the year 2025 will likely be here, and it is promising to cook a feast for anime lovers around the world. From popular anime returning with new seasons to newcomers on the block, the year is going to be filled with so many potentially great anime. So much so that for the first time in recent memory, I actually had to stop looking to keep my brain from overloading. Thatโs how much we could end up eating this year!
Iโm RJ Writing Ink for the D&A Anime Blog, and this is my bakerโs dozen of all the anime I will be paying attention to in 2025.
Solo Leveling-Arise from the Shadows-January 4th, 2025
Only a few days into 2024, the world of anime got its first big hit in the form of Solo Leveling. Based on the Korean manwha of the same name, this megahit told the story of Sung Jin-Woo as he started going from being the weakest Hunter in the world to a contender for the title of That Guy. And heโs going to get even stronger.
At the end of the first season, Jin-Woo gained the ability to raise the dead as shadow warriors, giving him the means to build his own army. This upcoming season will see him grow his forces while continuing to level up his skills. And the stronger he gets, the more attention he will end up attracting. And, having read the entire manwha to the end, I can promise you when I say that we have seen nothing yet!
Zenshu-January 5th, 2025
This next anime is unique on this list, as itโs the only one that wholly original. Created by studio MAPPA, Zenshu takes the all-too-familiar concept of the Isekai and puts someone who works in the anime industry into the protagonist role. When the young animator Natsuko Hirose apparently dies from exhaustion at work, she wakes up in the world of her favorite anime. Unfortunately for her, said anime is one where anyone can die, like its Game of Thrones. The good news is that she learns that she has the power to re-animate scenes from the story, thereby changing it in the process. So, she does what any fan who doesnโt like how a story turns out: she gets to work fixing it.
These days, Isekai are a dime-a-dozen, and creators have to get creative to help themselves stand out in the crowd. That being said, the premise of someone rewriting the world of her favorite series because they hate what happens is something plenty of fans can relate to. Take, for example, the recent ending to the Oshi No Ko manga. Plenty of disillusioned fans would love to fix that controversial ending! Not to mention how the last two seasons of Game of Thrones need a complete overhaul! The bottom line is that Zenshu is the power fantasy for every fan disillusioned by a story gone wrong, and we should give it a shot.
Dr. Stone Science Future-January 9 2025
Weโre ten billion percent ready to return to the world of Dr. Stone, the sci-fi manga with an emphasis on science. Following the events of the third season, Senku and the Kingdom of Science to acquire one of the mysterious devices that caused humanity to petrify. In addition, they also learned the device and its brethren were getting their orders somewhere on the Moon, meaning they would have to travel there to uncover the truth behind the Petrification Event. Doing that will require more resources, meaning Senku and the others will have to travel the globe and gain new alliesโฆand new enemies.
While I never watched Dr. Stone past season one, the anime has caught up to the part of the manga where I started reading it every week. Since I know what happens, I know how interesting things are going to get. And while it might not be the most exciting Shonen series, Dr. Stone balances learning about science with goofy humor, making it interesting enough for me to watch. That, and the dub voice cast is pretty good.
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2-January 10 2025
Everyoneโs favorite apothecary detective returns with a new season! If you donโt know what The Apothecary Diaries is, itโs an anime that premiered back in 2023 before running into the following year. It tells the story of Maomao, a talented young apothecary forced to work as a lowly servant at the palace of an Emperor. Once she starts using her talents to solve mysteries, though, she starts taking on a much greater role. With the new season heralding the arrival of spring, thereโs sure to be more mysteries to solve. And more importantly, more chances for Maomao and Jinshi to mess with each other!
Normally, The Apothecary Diaries wouldnโt be the kind of anime I would be interested in. However, the combination of good voice acting, mysteries, and the dynamic between Jinshi and Maomao is enough to pique my interest. With how many popular like to cosplay as characters from the series, itโs apparent that itโs got a pretty big fan base already, and will surely grow bigger with the new season.
The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You Season 2-January 12th 2025
The ultimate sigma harem anime returns at last! For those who donโt know (or didnโt ready my review of the series), 100 Girlfriends is, as the name suggests, about a boy whoโs destined to meet and have 100 girlfriends. As of the end of the first season, our protagonist/the ideal every boyfriend should aspire to, Rentaro Aijo, stands at six girlfriends. Given what the trailer revealed, heโs due to make it to the double digits before the end of the season.
Harem doesnโt have the best reputation in the anime community, but as I said in my review, 100 Girlfriends is the exception to the role. Not only does it have a protagonist who actively gives his partners reasons to like him, but each partner serves as a deconstruction of a different female archetype. I.E., Karaneโs tsundere-ness is something she hates due to it making her too insecure to say what sheโs really feeling. Or Shizukaโs muteness is not by choice, but due to her extreme shyness. The point is that each girlfriend has more depth than you would think. Not only that, but the series is pretty funny.
One Piece-April 2025
This fall, One Piece shocked fans everywhere when, for the first time in its 25-year history, it went on hiatus. Fans have had to be content with a retelling of the Fishman Island Saga over the course of the fall and winter months. However, all of that ends April, 2025 as One Piece returns to the actual story.
For those not caught up, the series went on hiatus in the middle of the Egghead Island Arc. That arc has the Straw Hats meet the genius scientist Dr. Vegapunk, who begs them to get him and his clones as far away from the World Government as possible. While the arc has already been filled with plenty of epic moments, I can promise you that you havenโt seen anything yet. Expect your mind to be blown into a million pieces, put back together, and then blown again before the Straw Hats leave Egghead. No spoilers, though!
My Hero Academia: Vigilantes-April 2025
My Hero Academia might be heading into its final season, but there are still stories left to be told in this world of superpowers and heroes. Case in point, we have the anime adaptation of the MHA spin-off/prequel, My Hero Academia: Vigilantes. Set five years before the events of the series, Vigilantes follows Koichi Haimawari, an aspiring hero who opts not to become a Pro Hero in favor of becoming an illegal vigilante.
Anyone who has read an American superhero comic knows that vigilante heroes arenโt a new thing. Technically, most of the superheroes in Marvel and DC comics are vigilantes that have charges pressed against them. The only reason that doesnโt happen is because the heroes are all fairly competent at what they do. Having a spin-off that brings the concept of superheroes back to its vigilante roots should provide a new and interesting perspective on how heroism works in the world of My Hero Academia. That, and it will keep the fandom alive for a little bit longer.
Dan Da Dan Season 2-July 2025
If you read my reviews of Dan Da Dan, then you know I consider it to be the best anime of 2024 hands down. Unfortunately, the first season ended on a pretty awkward vote: Okarun and Jiji found a secret room in Jijiโs house, and Momo was under attack from a bunch of creeps. Thankfully, fans donโt have to wait years to find out what happens in anime form, with the next season due in just a few months.
Continuing the story where the last episode left off, Okarun, Jiji, and Momo will have to face both a deadly cult and an evil spirit known as the Evil Eye. Given everything that we see in the trailer, including Jiji being possessed by the spirit and the image of an erupting volcano, things are going to get wild. And I wouldnโt have it any other way!
My Hero Academia Final Season-Fall 2025
Itโs been a long, long road, but My Hero Academia is finally nearing the end of its run. The last season ended as the final battle between the heroes and the villains was reaching its climax. As Deku continues his fight against Shigaraki, All Might fights to stall the evil All for One from reaching his apprentice so they can merge and become unstoppable. With all the other battles now out of the way, the series can focus on making this the finale that the fans deserve.
Once again, this is a series where I read the entire manga in advance. Thus, I know how things are going to turn out and care more about its executed. If Studio Bones does this right, then it will cement MHA in the Shonen hall of fame. If notโฆyou remember what happened with Oshi No Ko, right?
Kaiju No. 8 Season 2-Unknown Release Date
Hereโs another up-and-coming Shonen anime thatโs getting another season, Kaiju No. 8. At the end of the last season, Kafka Hibino managed to prove his humanity despite being able to transform into a Kaiju. As a result, heโs getting another chance with the Anti-Kaiju Defense Force. With the threat of Kaiju No. 9 and other intelligent Kaiju still looming, the JAKDF will need all the help they can get.
Sadly, a concrete release date for the new season has yet to be announced. In fact, every entry beyond this point has no clear release date.
Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc-Unknown Release Date
Right when it looked like it may never continue, Chainsaw Man bursts back onto the scene in all of its bloody glory. Some time ago, it was announced that the next arc of the popular Shonen series, the Reze Arc, would be made into a movie. However, with no news after such a long time, it began to feel like we may never get to see the Reze Arc play out. Thankfully, our wait may not be for much longer.
While we still donโt have a concrete release date for the film, that doesnโt change the fact that itโs coming in 2025. Given how popular the anime is, fans will likely line up in droves to see this next chapter in this bloody, unhinged story.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba-Infinity Castle Movie Trilogy-Unknown Release Dates
Speaking of popular Shonen series getting the movie treatment, it seems that Demon Slayer is returning to the movies not once, not twice, but three times in 2025. With the fourth season covering the Hashira Training arc and the start of the final battle against Muzan, the studio behind the anime must have decided to give Demon Slayer the send-off it deserves. Thus, it looks like theyโre adapting the Infinity Castle arc into a trilogy of films, giving Demon Slayer the stage it needs to play out its final act.
At the moment, itโs currently unclear if the Infinity Castle movies will premiere in theaters in the West. Itโs not even clear if the movies will finish the series as a whole or just cover the Infinity Castle Arc. However, Iโm hoping that they do both. With how cinematic Demon Slayer has proven to be over the years, it feels right to have it end on the big screen. Just like the series finale to Avatar: The Last Airbender shouldโve aired in theaters.
Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 (I Hope!)
JUJUTSU KAISEN "Culling Game Arc" Officially Announced!
This last one is less of a confirmed release and more like wishful thinking, but given how the JuJutsu Kaisen manga ended earlier this year, it would be appreciated. After all, the second season of JJK ended on a pretty bleak note.
To quickly recap what went down in the second season of JJK:
Gojo was sealed inside a cursed prison with his enemies in Jujutsu society forbidding his rescue.
Sukuna made Yuji level most of the Shibuya District, killing hundreds in the process.
Tons of new curse users have been awoken alongside many cursed spirits.
Yujiโs execution has been re-instated.
With the next season set to adapt the Culling Games Arc, this is JJKโs chance to regain much of the love that was lost due to how the manga ended. Hopefully, more news will come in the next few months!
What other anime are you looking forward to seeing in 2025? If you have any recommendations feel free to leave a comment about it! Happy New Year!
By the time youโre reading this, the year 2024 will either be over or about to be over, but what a good it was for anime. From long-running juggernauts like One Piece celebrating its 25th anniversary to Dan Da Dan breaking the Internet, there were plenty of anime that stood out from the crowd this year. It does beg the question, though: who stood out the most? While people can have their own opinions on what constitutes the best, there were plenty of anime that stood out as a whole rather than just one or two moments.
Iโm RJ Writing Ink for D&A Anime Blog, and weโre going over my picks for the best anime of 2024. For this list, we will be restricting picks to anime that either premiered in 2024 or began a new season in 2024. Furthermore, that whole season must have aired in its entirety over the year. Sadly, that means that previous entries like One Piece or Mushoku Tensei will not count here. The former has been running continuously for decades while the latter only aired the second half of its second season. Donโt worry, though. They will be appearing in another post. It should also be noted that these are all anime that I have seen, and can form an opinion about.
Solo Leveling
It was almost a year ago when we were introduced to the South Korean power fantasy known as Solo Leveling. Based on the web novel/manwha of the same name, Solo Leveling is set in a version of the world where portals to dungeons filled with resources and monsters have been appearing for more than a decade. Only those with supernatural abilities, called Hunters, can hope to stop the monsters. Unfortunately for Sung Jin-Woo, heโs the weakest Hunter around, a fact that leaves him trapped in a catastrophe that should have left him dead. Instead, this mysterious program called the System saves him, gives him the unique ability to level up via RPG mechanics, and forces him to continually get stronger to stay alive. What follows is Jin-Woo going from being a meek nobody into someone who could become the most powerful Hunter alive.
Calling Solo Leveling South Koreaโs answer to Sword Art Online would be an understatement. Like Kirito before him, the story of Sung Jin-Woo serves as a power fantasy for everyone who wishes they could be strong enough to get the most out of life. Whereas Kirito started his journey as a bit of a badass, though, Jin-Woo has to put himself through the ringer to survive the events heโs been forced into. And while some people might see the story as unoriginal, thatโs not really the point. The anime looks insanely good, and whether heโs fighting monsters the size of buildings or murderous Hunters, Jin-Woo looks so cool. And this is only the start; I read the entire manwha, and youโre not prepared for what will come!
Ranma 1/2
Dread it, run from it, but no matter what you do, Ranma 1/2 will not stay dead! The third anime series to be based on Rumiko Takahashiโs manga of the same name, Ranma 1/2 is a modern remake for one of the first series to make it big in the West. If you havenโt heard about it or seen the previous versions, hereโs the basic plot:
Ranma Saotome is a young martial artist who has the misfortune of being put into an arranged marriage with Akane Tendo, the daughter of an old friend of his father. Their fatherโs plan is for the two to carry on the Tendo familyโs dojo, but there are several problems with this. Firstly, Ranma and Akane grow to quickly dislike each other. Secondly, thanks to his fatherโs stupidity, Ranma himself has a curse that turns him into a girl. When he gets hit by cold water, he becomes a girl. When she gets hit by hot water, she turns back into a boy. Chaos ensues.
The second of Takahashiโs works to get a remake in recent years, Ranma 1/2 is every bit as crazed and hilarious as its predecessors. Faithfully recreating the original series art style and tone, the series manages to do quite well for itself on Netflix, bringing the classic romcom to a new generation of fans. While some may take issue with the way some things were censored, the series is pretty faithful to what came before it. Plus, it is funny to see Ranma and Akane go from being at each otherโs throats to caring about each other, only to be back at each otherโs throats again.
My Hero Academia S7
My Hero Academia, the superhero Shลnen series that took the world by storm, returned for its penultimate season, and didnโt waste any time getting down to business. The final battle between the Heroes of Japan and the villains led by All for One and Shigaraki begins in full. As Deku races to defeat Shigaraki before he and All for One can join forces, his friends and allies are forced to fight an all-out war that spans all of Japan. Everyone on both sides is pushed to their absolute limits as the battle to decide the fate of the world rages, and thereโs no guarantee everyone will make it out alive.
Say what you want about MHA, but it knows how to create an effective spectacle when it wants to. With the manga having ended this past summer, people were watching to see if this season would live up to the hype. Thankfully, it more or less managed to do this, with the big moments being as epic as they are in the manga, while the more emotional ones maintaining their weight and importance. The one problem is that the season ends right as the climax of the final battle is about to take place, leaving it up to the next season to settle everything. It might just be me, but I was expecting this to be the final season. Then again, it did have to let the manga finish, so itโs understandable why that didnโt happen.
Kaiju No. 8
If you were to combine the Tokukatsu genre with the Shonen tropes of series like My Hero Academia, then the end result would be Kaiju No. 8. Set in a world where Kaiju attacks are a fact of life, the story is about Kafka Hibino, a 32-year old who has tried several times to fulfill his dream of joining the Anti-Kaiju Defense Force alongside his childhood friendโฆonly to fail each time. Before his next and final attempt, though, he winds up the host of a parasite that gives him the ability to turn into a humanoid Kaiju with super strength. Dubbed Kaiju No. 8 by the JAKDF, Kafka has to keep his new powers secret from everyone while he uses them to fulfill his dream, only for another humanoid Kaiju to start causing trouble for him and other new recruits.
I wasnโt joking when I said this show combines Tokukatsu with My Hero Academia. Kafkaโs dreaming of joining the Defense Force despite repeated failures and lack of skill are just like how Deku was at the start of his story. The big difference is that Kafka starts the series off far older than characters like Naruto, Deku, and Luffy do, giving him a more mature perspective about life. Beyond the unconventional Shonen protagonist, though, what helps Kaiju No. 8 stand out is how drop-dead gorgeous the animation is. Just look at one of the clips Crunchyroll put on YouTube, and youโll be blown away at how good everything looks. With a second season on the horizon, itโs clear that the powers that be see promise in this new kid on the block.
The Elusive Samurai
From the creator of Assassination Classroom and the studio that makes Bocchi the Rock and Spy x Family comes this delightful historical fantasy-comedy, The Elusive Samurai. Set 700 years ago in Medieval Japan, the anime tells the story of Tokiyuki Hojo, the heir to the Kamakura Shogunate that governs the country. When one of their retainers betrays and murders his family, though, Tokiyuikihas to go on the run as he works to avenge his family. Thereโs just one problem: Tokiyukiโs only real skill is a superhuman ability to run and hide.
While he may not fearless or boisterous like many Shonen Jump protagonists, donโt mistake his running for cowardice. One of the main themes to his show is the importance of knowing when to run and fight another day, something that most of the Samurai of his day fail to consider. And when he does stand and fight, he weaponizes his dodging skills to become a nigh-uncatchable menace. Coupled with the gorgeous artwork, fluid animation, and quirky sense of humor, The Elusive Samurai is both one of the best looking anime of the year, as well as one of the best in general.
Dragon Ball Daima
Fans have been waiting for years for the return of Dragon Ball Super, but until then, we can ride ourselves over with Daima. The final project of the late Akira Toriyama, Daima returns the franchise to its roots for its 40th anniversary. Set after the defeat of Majin Buu but before the events of Super, the story begins when Gomah, the new King of the Demon Realm, uses Earthโs Dragon Balls to turn Goku and his friends into kids. With a baby Dende having been kidnapped by Gomah, Goku and the others journey to the Demon Realm on a quest to get him back and return to their proper ages. Along the way, they explore the rarely-seen Demon Realm and gain new friends in the form of newcomers Glorio and Panzy.
It may break my earlier rule due to it carrying over into next year, but Dragon Ball Daima is an exception. With Toriyamaโs passing earlier this year making this his final contribution to his creation, it would be disrespectful not to include it. While the series has yet to hit its stride in terms of action, it more than makes up for it by returning to its roots as an adventure comedy. Given how this is the last thing weโll ever get from Toriyama, though, Iโm more than happy to wait for the action to crank up to what fans have come to expect from the franchise.
Dan Da Dan
Our last entry needs no introduction but is getting one anyway, Dan Da Dan. Part supernatural thriller, part romcom, Dan Da Dan revolves around Momo Ayase and Ken โOkarunโ Takakura, two teenagers who believe in the supernatural. When the two make a bet to prove whether ghosts or aliens exist, they wind up in a world of trouble. Momo gets abducted by perverted aliens and discovers she has psychic powers, while Okarun gets possessed by a ghost and gains ghost powersโฆbut loses his manhood and balls. Thus, the unlikely pair has to team up to get Okarunโs junk back while also dealing with more aliens and ghosts that are after them.
I normally donโt like to pick favorites on lists like this, but this is the exception: Dan Da Dan is easily the best anime of 2024. The animation is absolutely gorgeous, the characters are lovable and quirky, and the story is absolutely unhinged. As in original FLCL levels of unhinged. Between all this and the sheer amount of gifs and memes to be found, Dan Da Dan easily took my top spot for favorite anime of the year. While the first season ended at a bit of an inconvenient moment, it doesnโt detract from the sheer enjoyment for the entire show. And we donโt have to wait long for a second season; itโs coming July 2025!
With the year 2024 ending, the time has come for anime fans to look back on what they liked about this year and what they didnโt. One of the topics that will inevitably come up is who we think qualifies for the status of best girls and best boys in anime. Last year, I came up with my list of who I think were the best anime girls of 2023, and I see no reason why I canโt do the same for 2024. Iโm RJ Writing Ink, and in no particular order, here are my picks for best girls of 2024.
As before, this list will include girls from anime that premiered in 2024 as well as girls who gained prominence on returning shows. And since last year set the precedent that an anime can have more than one, I will be combining thosewith multiple entries
Vegapunk/Lilith-One Piece
For years, fans of One Piece had been waiting to be introduced to the mysterious genius known as Dr. Vegapunk. Said to be the smartest man in the world, the Dr was responsible for many of the tools used by the World Government to maintain their control over the world. Imagine everyoneโs surprise when the Straw Hatโs meet this young woman who calls herself Vegapunk. However, thatโs only partly true. This woman, Lilith, is a clone of Vegapunk called a Satellite. He created them to help do his research faster, with all of them connected via a hive mind and representing a different aspect of his personality. Fitting for a woman named after an ancient demon, Lilith represents his โevilโ aspect.
Donโt let the evil part fool you, though. While Lilith embodies Vegapunkโs manipulative, impulsive, and ruthless side, sheโs actually a very nice person. Sheโs incredibly loyal to her fellow Vegapunks, and as with many characters they meet, she becomes a steadfast ally of the Straw Hats after she gets to know them. If anything, her rough nature made me enjoy her even more. It also helps that her English VA is Madeline Morris, AKA Rudeus Greyrat.
Akane Tendo-Ranma 1/2
One of the earliest anime waifus to make their way to the West returns for a new generation. The main heroine of Ranma 1/2, Akane Tendo is a headstrong martial artist whose beauty makes her the object of affection for many boys at her high school. Unfortunately for them, she hates most men. Unfortunately for her, her unwilling fiancรฉ, Ranma Saotome, not only thinks sheโs not attractive but manages to get on her nerves.
Then again, that seems like the standard formula for one of Rumiko Takahashiโs manga.
Contrary to Ranmaโs assertions that she has no charm, Akane Tendo has plenty of charm to go around. While she may come off as rough and abrasive towards most guys, itโs repeatedly shown that she has a soft side. She has an innocent crush on the boy her older sister likes, and sheโs shown to be very affectionate towards her sisters and those she considers friends. She even starts to be nicer to Ranma after they get to know each other better. Theyโre still regularly at each otherโs throats, but thatโs par for the course in one of Takahashiโs manga.
Alya Kujou and Yuki Suou- Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian
For the first anime on this list to have more than one entry, we have Alisa โAlyaโ Kujou and Yuki Suou from Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian. Both of these high schoolers are seen as beauties in their series, hut for different reasons. Alya is seen by many as an unattainable kuudere, with her white hair and half-Russian parentage only adding to her reputation. In contrast, Yuki is more of a traditional Japanese beauty, owing to her refined bearing and coming from a distinguished family of diplomats and former nobility.
Anyone who knows them personally, though, would better describe them with two words: tease and troll.
As Masachika Kuze can attest, Alya may seem like a kuudere, but she likes to flirt and tease him in Russian, thinking he canโt understand it. The irony is that he can, and if she knew, she would be embarrassed to no end. As for Yuki, while they act like strangers in public, sheโs actually Masachikaโs younger sister. When theyโre alone together, she loves to indulge in manga-reading, is a total pervert, and regularly flirts with her brother to get under his skin. The bottom line is that both of these young women can be menaces if left unchecked, but are still genuinely good people.
Sylphie and Roxy Greyrat-Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
Full disclosure: I initially intended to just include Roxy on this list since Sylphie made it last year. After thinking it over, though, I felt it only fair to put them both on due to how they help Rudeusโ life.
Now that sheโs no longer keeping her identity a secret from Rudy, Sylphiette couldnโt be any happier. The two are young, married, and before the season is over, theyโre parents to a beautiful little girl. However, the reason she made this list a second year in a row is due to how accepting she is of Roxy becoming Rudyโs second wife. She even says that she expected Rudy to bring another woman home one day, and that he wouldnโt do so unless they were very special to him.
As for Roxy, Rudy could spend hours singing her praises, but the reason sheโs on here is due to her helping Rudy recover from the shock of losing his father in the teleportation labyrinth. Whatโs more, despite having fallen in love with her former student, she was willing to walk away rather than risk being a homewrecker. Combine that it was Roxyโs teachings that helped Rudy survive the hardships of his life, is it any wonder why sheโs earned a spot on this list. Keep doing your best to support Rudy, you two!
Kikoru Shinomiya-Kaiju No. 8
One of the three main protagonists of Kaiju No. 8, Kikoru Shinomiya is considered a genius Kaiju slayer despite only being a rookie. As the daughter of the leader of the Japanese Anti-Kaiju Defense Force, everyone has high expectations for her, ones that she has strived to meet by becoming the best at fighting Kaijus. And with good sheโs shown to be at fighting them over the series first season, her reputation is one well-earned.
While Kikoru may come off as arrogant and abrasive at first, sheโs actually a very nice and loyal woman once she starts to befriend Kafka and Ichikawa. Case in point, before Kafka chooses to out himself, sheโs the only person the duo willingly tells about him being a humanoid Kaiju. Despite her hatred of Kaiju, the fact that Kikoru chooses to keep quiet speaks volumes about how kind she is.
Himiko Toga-My Hero Academia
While normally a villain wouldnโt go on this list, an exception will be made in the case of Himiko Toga, as youโll see here.
When first introduced in My Hero Academia, Toga came off as a sadistic killer with a love of blood, and the blood part is a part of her personality. However, as we learn more about her, we realize she only became as bad as she is because she failed to get the help she clearly needed. Instead. She was told to act โnormalโ until the strain became too much, making her snap. Anyone whoโs had to hide what theyโre like to the world can relate to how tough that can be!
Ultimately, while Togaโs actions during the final war threatened to cost the heroes everything, itโs what she does at the end of her story that shows that, deep down, she was a good person. After Uraraka finally gets through to her, Toga chose to sacrifice her life to save Urarakaโs. That selfless act feels like itโs earned her a spot on this list. Plus, Urarakaโs right. Toga does look cute when she smiles.
Kara Zor-El-My Adventures With Superman
The only non-anime waifu to make the list is the latest incarnation of Kara Zor-El, AKA Supergirl, from My Adventures With Superman. As is the case for most versions of her, Kara is Superman’s cousin who was separated from him during the destruction of Krypton. Unfortunately for her, she wound up being raised by her universe’s version of Brainiac, AKA the rogue AI of Krypton that destroyed it in the first place. Kara spent her entire life conquering planets in the name of Brainiac’s twisted version of Krypton, but everything changed when she went to Earth to look for her cousin and found out how evil Brainiac really is.
While she may not be from an anime, there are several reasons why this version of Kara is on the list. Firstly, My Adventures With Superman is heavily inspired, in both animation style and story structure, by shonen anime. Secondly, her casual attire is almost an exact copy of Android 18’s clothes from Dragon Ball Z. Lastly, despite being raised by one of the most evil versions of Brainiac ever made, Kara is so nice and friendly. Seeing her getting to experience all the little things that make life on Earth worth living is infectious, and her growing, mutual crush on Jimmy Olsen is pure puppy love.
Jimmy, ask her out! NOW!
Momo and Seiko Ayase-Dan Da Dan
If Dan Da Dan was the best anime of 2024, then Momo Ayase and her grandmother, Seiko, are our best girls. Momo is an extroverted gyaru-girl believes in ghosts, has psychic powers, and swoons at the mention of Ken Takakura. Meanwhile, Seiko is a psychic medium who looks to be in her 20s despite having a granddaughter, loves Hiroshi Abe, and is a talented spirit medium whoโs teaching Momo everything she knows. Together, the two make for a pretty badass pairโฆwhen they arenโt getting on each otherโs nerves.
The reason why both are included on this list are because they each have their own appeal to them. Momoโs quirky personality, sense of fashion, and loyalty to those she calls friends like Okarun have won over many fans. Not to mention thereโs the fact that her psychic powers mean that she can go toe-to-toe with both aliens and ghosts and come out on top. As for Seiko, while she does come off as abrasive at times, she does care about her granddaughter and want the best for her. I even compared to an older, more mature Haruko from FLCL. Itโs fitting, considering how her English VA is Kari Wahlgren, AKA the VA for Haruko.
Who Were Your Favorite Girls for 2024? Let us Know!
RJ Writing Ink’s Picks for Best Moments in Anime for 2024
With 2024 all but over, once again, itโs time to look back on all the anime weโve watchedโฆand figure out what moment broke the Internet the most. There were plenty of moments that would gain their fifteen minutes of internet fame, and like many people, I have my own opinions on what moments live rent-free in my head. Last year, I recounted my favorite anime moments for 2023, and I see no reason not to consider that tradition.
Iโm RJ Writing Ink, and here are my picks for the best anime moments for 2024. As was the case with last year, Iโll be limiting myself to the anime I watched.
Sung Jin-Woo Slaughters Hunters, Solo Leveling
If you ever need an example of why humans are the most dangerous game in the world, this is a prime example. When most of Sung Jin-Wooโs party of Hunters use him and newcomer Jin-Ho as fodder for a dungeon boss, they fully expected him to die. When they come back and find the boss slain, they decide to kill them both to cover-up what they did. Little did they know that Jin-Woo was not a man that they should make an enemy of. In one of the coldest anime moments of the year, Jin-Woo proceeds to kill every last one of them without any signs of remorse or empathy.
Solo Leveling had already established itself as one of the first big anime of 2024, but this moment? This moment cemented it as one of its best. Seeing the once meek and powerless Jin-Woo effortlessly kill the Hunters was equally exciting and terrifying. Exciting because it showed that Jin-Woo was become THAT GUY, and terrifying because it represented him losing a part of his humanity. Coupled with the superb insert song, DARK ARIA <LVL2> playing in the background, is it any wonder this broke the Internet?
Muzan is Cornered by Demon Slayer Corps, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba-Hashira Training Arc
This was the moment Demon Slayer had been building towards. After coming out of hiding to hunt down Nezuko, Muzan tried to cripple the Demon Slayer Corps by killing its leader, Kagaya Ubuyashiki, in his hidden mansion. Little did he know that this was all part of an elaborate trap. Kagaya sacrificed himself and most of his family to blow the mansion up, stunning the Demon long for fellow Demon Tamayo to inject him with a drug meant to turn him back into a human. Driven into a corner by the arrival of the Hashira, Muzan countered by dropping the entire Corps into the Infinity Castle in the hopes of finally wiping them all out.
Demon Slayer is well-known among anime fans for its superb levels of animation, and moments like this are why the reputation is justified. The slow-motion explosion as the mansion goes sky high. The incredibly well-detailed shot of a dazed Muzan trying to regenerate himself. The sweeping sight of the Infinity Castle as the Corps falls into Muzanโs personal domain. Everything about this moment is meant to excite fans as the final battle between Humans and Demons begins! Itโs a shame that we have to wait until later in 2025 for the movies.
Bakugoโs Sacrifice, My Hero Academia
The penultimate season of My Hero Academia is filled with plenty of epic and emotional moments, but few were as upsetting as this. As the heroes try to keep Tomura Shigaraki contained long enough for Deku to arrive, Bakugo steps up to buy them some time. While he manages to wound the villain, though, all it does is anger Shigaraki for his repeated interference. Fans and heroes alike were thus forced to watch as Shigaraki cut Bakugo down in cold blood, seemingly killing him.
As someone who read the manga in advance, knowing that this was coming didnโt make it any easier to watch. I still remember how freaked out the fandom was over Bakugoโs apparent death, only to grow irate when itโs revealed to be a fake-out. Fake-out or not, there was a very really possibility that Bakugo was dead, and in a season full of shocking moments, this was not one I wanted to relive.
Nokotan’s Entrance, My Deer Friend Nokotan
If you want to establish a reputation as chaos incarnate, look to Nokotan as an example. After meeting the mysterious deer girl on her way to school, Koshitan just wanted to return to her perfect life at high school. Instead, sheโs horrified when that same deer girl ends up becoming a transfer student in her class. To make matters worse, sheโs the only one to have a reasonable reaction when Nokotan breaks the door with her antlers, sending debris flying into the poor students faces.
Say what you want about Nokotan as an anime, you canโt deny the fact that this moment is hilarious. The slow-motion effects as Nokotan forces her way through the door. The ominous chanting of โshii-kaโ like sheโs the boss of some video game. The fact that most of the students keep the same smiling faces even as theyโre pummeled by rocks! I found it so funny that I decided to make a meme out of it, and it blew up.
Rudy has had plenty of terrible moments during his second go at life, but few were as bad as what happened when he lost his dad. While Rudeus and his father are fighting a massive hydra to rescue his mother, Rudy makes a mistake that leaves himself open to attack. Paul pushes him out of the way in time to save his life, allowing Rudeus the chance to kill the monster, but the act cost Paul his life. By the time Rudy is aware of whatโs happening, all he and his party can do is watch as Paul quietly dies, smiling at the fact that his son is alive.
I donโt know if it was a coincidence that this episode came out on Fatherโs Day or not, but if it wasnโt, the powers in charge are sick sadists. Just as Rudy thought he was getting his life together, he makes a mistake that cost Paul his life. Had Roxy not helped him to grieve, he might have reverted to his shut-in mentality from his first life. Considering that the alternative meant that Rudy would have died and left his new wife, Sylphie, a widow and their unborn child without a father, though, I think that Paul made the right choice. He protected his child like any good parent should do.
Kafka Punches A Kaiju Bomb, Kaiju No. 8
Even after he became a humanoid Kaiju, Kafka Hibino never stopped aspiring to join the Anti-Kaiju Defense Force. He did his best to keep his powers a secret from all but two of his comrades, knowing that exposing himself could lead to his death. However, when Kaiju No. 9 threatened to drop a massive bomb on Kafka and his comrades, the man didnโt hesitate to transform into his Kaiju form and punch the bomb straight into the sky in a move that would make All Might proud.
Besides being one of several well-animated moments in a series that was already well-animated, this moment marked a turning point for the story of Kaiju No. 8. Now that the JAKDF was aware that he could turn into a Kaiju, they were naturally going to want to apprehend him. The fact that he chose to put himself anyway speaks volumes about his character, and his friends knew that. While Kafka has to face an uphill battle going forward, his friends arenโt going to abandon him whether heโs human or a Kaiju.
One Piece Fan Letter, One Piece (the whole thing)
The year 2024 was a big year for One Piece fans, as it marked the 25th anniversary of the anime. To commemorate this event, Toei decided to release this special adapting a series of short stories released back in 2027. Taking place during the Return to Sabaody Arc as the Straw Hats reunite after two years apart, Fan Letter shows the impact that Luffy and his crew have had on ordinary people. From a pair of Marine brothers whoโs lives Luffy inadvertently saved during the Marineford War to a girl wanting to give Nami a fan letter, this special shows the impact that the Straw Hats have had on the world through the people theyโve inspired.
Besides the great animation, what makes this special important is the dual meaning behind the title. To put it simply, the title lets everyone know that this episode is the fandom saying thank you to One Piece. The series has entertained and inspired countless people the world over, serving as a guiding light in a potentially dark and chaotic world. While the story has yet to conclude, thereโs no doubt that One Piece has more than earned its spot in the history books as one of the best stories of modern times.
To A Kinder World, Dan Da Dan Ep 7 (the whole episode)
If youโve seen Dan Da Dan, then you canโt argue with the fact that itโs one of, if not the best, anime of 2024. Itโs quirky characters, balls-to-the-walls levels of insanity, and gorgeous animation quickly won fans over. However, anyone who hadnโt read the manga expected it to do what it did with its seventh episode: make the Internet collectively cry.
After defeating the Yokai Acrobatic Silky, the characters and audience are treated to a silent, extended flashback to Silkyโs life as a human. Without any dialogue, we are shown the life of a single mother who struggled to provide for her daughter, only for her to be ripped away by a group of loan sharks. Left in despair, the mother performed one last ballet dance before jumping off a roof to her death. When a younger Aria mistook Silky for her deceased mother, this led to the ghostโs obsession with seeing her as her lost daughter. Ultimately, this led to Silky sacrificing herself to give Aria a second chance at life.
Sweet mercy, this episode was an absolute tear-jerker. Everyone who watched this episode of Dan Da Dan agreed that it was the series’ finest moment to date. I was barely able to keep myself from crying as we witnessed Silkyโs tragic life story. This entire episode virtually cemented Dan Da Dan as the best anime of the year, garnering acclaim from fans and critics alike for how poignant it was. If youโve seen it, then youโll understand why!
What Were Your Favorite Anime Moments of 2024? Let us Know!
It’s been a wild ride this fall, but the first season of Dan Da Dan is now in the history books. Fortunately, the next season has already been announced to be closer than we thought, and given how this season ends, fans will appreciate it. But before we get to that, we have to go over everything that happens in this season finale. As Momo, Okarun, and Jiji head to exorcise Jijiโs house, Okarun is still trying to get over the fact that heโs jealous of Jijiโs relationship with Momo. If only he could see that Momo doesnโt think of him like that.
We Can’t Hate Jiji!
So, after that whole fiasco with the living mannequins (and convincing Seiko to let the girlfriend live at their house), it looks like the mannequin thing is wrapped up. Unfortunately, Taro the mannequin didn’t have one of Okarun’s missing balls. He was just alive because…reasons.
Some people might want an explanation as to why these two mannequins are alive, but it’s actually funnier to leave people guessing as to why. With all the weirdness in the series, you learn to roll with this sort of thing.
Speaking of rolling with things, Okarun is dead set on keeping Momoโs attention firmly on him. That leads him to spend much of the episode trying to find ways to impress her, only for Jijiโs extroverted attitude to interfere. The worst part is that Ken canโt bring himself to hate the friendly Jiji, either. The young man is so nice that the two even start to bond over their shared interest in the supernatural. However, that doesnโt stop them from butting heads over who is closer to Momo, which is fun to watch.
LET'S GOOOOOOO. it's been kinda obvious now that Jiji's just being friendly and now it's the first time him and Okarun has the genuine friendship energy. I LOVE THIS#ใใณใใใณ#Dandadanpic.twitter.com/cngHaVgsBf
What wasnโt fun to watch, though, was the way that the episode decides to end things. And since this is the season finale, itโs going to be generating a lot of controversy.
As Jiji explained, and Momo confirms for herself, his house is haunted by a powerful spirit. So powerful that it even manages to alter the appearance of the structure in a way that they donโt notice at first. However, thatโs not the most unsettling part. During the episode, Momo breaks one of the cardinal rules of the horror genre by choosing to try out one of the villageโs hot springs alone. Worse, the hot spring she winds up choosing is co-ed, a fact she only becomes aware of when a group of men come barging in. The episode ultimately ends with those same men openly attempting to assault Momo!
Thisโฆwas not a good moment for the season to end things. While seeing perverts trying this sort of thing on women isnโt new in the Shonen genre, that doesnโt make the site of it any less horrifying. The fact the anime chooses to end the season without showing how Momo will get out of this only adds to the anxiety itโs going to put fans through. While they can always read the manga, some people prefer only to watch the anime to enjoy the story as it goes along. For that matter, having the anime cover the start of the next big arc only to end the season on such a tense moment seems like a failure to properly pace things out.
As much as I have enjoyed Dan Da Dan, I think that the anime genuinely screwed up by choosing to stop when it did. Not everyone is going to appreciate having to wait months to find out what happens next. Itโs only the fact that they donโt have to wait long that may end up bringing them back.
While it was likely meant to be revealed at the end of the episode, Studio Saru announced that the next season of Dan Da Dan would be coming in July 2025. Relatively speaking, thatโs fast for an anime! Hopefully, the season finale wonโt end up driving away the fans that the show has worked so hard to gain, as itโs easily one of the best anime of the year. I, for one, am looking forward to getting to see more of it next summer!
I Give โLetโs Go to the Cursed Houseโ a 2.5/5
Jealousy, envy, coveting; call it what you want, but when we feel it, itโs never a good thing. And right now, Ken Takakura is feeling both jealousโฆand dejected. When Momoโs old friend and first crush shows up at her doorstep, the poor boyโs already low self-esteem takes an even bigger nosedive. Thankfully, this episode revolves around him getting a reminder of why he shouldnโt be so quick to give up on his feelings. And, in typical Dan Da Dan fashion, it happens in the most hilarious, over-the-top fashion.
Is Jiji’s Gojo’s Long-Lost Cousin?
At the end of the last episode, Momo opens her front door to find a tall, athletic, and handsome young man standing outside. This is Jiji, Momoโs old friend when they were little kids, and, according to her grandma, her first crush. His family moved before middle school, and, to make a long story short, their house is haunted. So haunted that the ghost chased off every medium they hiredโฆor made them kill themselves. Now his folks are in the hospital, and Seiko is the only one who can purge the ghost. But since sheโs useless outside their city, Momo will have to do it. That wonโt happen until the next episode though.
The main focus of this episode is the arrival of Jiji and how he affects the status quo. Played by Aleks Le, Jiji is, essentially, a younger, even goofier version of Gojo from JuJutsu Kaisen. Given how goofy Gojo can be, that should tell you what kind of person he is. Between his good looks, his extroverted personality, and charisma, he quickly wins over everyone at school. Even Seiko likes him, though thatโs because he compliments how amazing she looks. Momo, though, sees him and finds herself questioning why they were friends to begin with.
It should be noted that Jiji was one of the people who made fun of her for believing in ghosts as a kid, a fact that he deeply regrets. Combined with the possibility that he returned her crush (and may still have one), itโs clear heโs trying to make amends for his past actions. However, Momo just finds him annoying now, preferring a more solemn guy like Ken Takakuraโฆthe actor. She still wonโt admit that sheโs fallen for Ken-Chan.
Speaking of which, poor Okarunโs already low self-esteem takes an even further nosedive here. Jiji is everything that he isnโt, or at least what he thinks he isnโt. And since heโs starting to fall in love with her, that is making him jealous. Rather than get angry and aggressive over it, though, he decides to bow out. While that normally would be the right thing to do, in this case he means to cut himself off from Momo altogether.
Don’t Stop Fighting for Momo, Okarun!
EP 11 At the end there is some romance again – Dan Da Dan style
Love and friendships can be hard when you are young, and with how introverted Ken-Chan can be, itโs understandable that he doesnโt see how good a person he really is. If he higher more self-esteem, he would be able to recognize that Momoโs one-time friend now greatly irritates her with his antics. Fortunately, since he is a protagonist, the universe provides him with the reminder he needsโฆin the silliest way possible.
Dan Da Dan has shown us many crazy things: aliens of all sorts, ghosts, and more. But I think the sight of an anatomical mannequin running through the streets to find his girlfriend at a dump might be the craziest thing Iโve seen on this show. And thatโs counting the race with Turbo Granny! But seeing him be so passionate about reuniting with his love lights a fire in Okarun. Thanks to that, heโs able to overcome his insecurities and fight for his friendship with Momo. Not that he needs to fight for it, mind you. The reason why he and Momo work so well together is because theyโre polar opposites. They balance each other out, keep the other grounded. Rest assured, their friendship is stronger than either of them realizes.
Sad to say it, though, but next episode will mark the final episode for this first season of Dan Da Dan. However, with how popular it has proven, itโs going to get a second season. And I look forward to seeing that come to pass.
The last few episodes of Dan Da Dan have been chaotic for our group of teens. First, Aira’s misguided attempts to seduce Ken lead to a misunderstanding between him and Momo. Then those banana-obsessed aliens come back with minions and try to capture Ken and kill Momo and Aira. And even though they win, every high schooler’s worst nightmare takes place. The entire school sees the girls in their underwear and Ken in his birthday suit!
After the most embarrassing moment of their lives up to that point, Ken, Momo, and Aira take shelter in the nurse’s office and get spare tracksuits. Thankfully, the nurse is the understanding and supportive type…though I almost lost it when I saw that she gave off the energy of a dominatrix. She had the flogger and everything!
Now comes the real issue: explaining the incident and salvaging their reputations before they have to change schools. Momo’s friends come up with the silliest, but also most believable, explanation in the form of a gladiator fight between the girls over Okarun. To be fair, they’re not wrong to assume there’s a love triangle. We should know by now that there is a love triangle between Momo, Aira, and Okarun, even if Momo and Okarun don’t realize it yet. And while Ken does manage to explain what really happened when she walked in on him and Aira, I didn’t appreciate how she teased him over his reasons for being quiet about exercising. Trying to look cool in front of a person you like is a big deal for someone like Ken, and as light-hearted as it was, her trolling him felt a little mean.
But not as mean as what Aira did to Momo.
RIP Aira’s Popularity
Initially, the trio planned to tell the school that the incident was Momo’s fault, but before Aira can do that, her past actions come back to haunt her. Remember how she spread lies about Momo being promiscuous before? Those lies, combined with what happened, almost incite Aira’s classmates into an angry mob. And Aira, in a moment of character development, fesses up that she started the fake rumors, destroying her popularity.
When we first met Aira, she was the kind of shallow, self-absorbed person who would do something that mean-spirited. And while she’s still a bit full of herself, the fact that she was willing to fess up for the sake of a girl she doesn’t like that much is a sign of positive character development. There might be hope for Aira yet, people! There has to be, though, since they still have to deal with Yokai and Aliens.
Earlier in this episode, Ken theorizes that the reason the Serpoians wanted Turbo Granny’s powers is because the aliens’ tech is useless against all the supernatural forces found on Earth. I’m no stranger to seeing science and magic existing in a shared world, but it’s still pretty cool hearing that ghosts and spirits are acting like a nuclear deterrent against alien invasion. However, at least one alien won’t bother them anymore: The Mantis Shrimp, AKA the Dover Demon, Kappa, and Mr. Peeny-Weeny.
EVER SEEN AN ALIEN ABDUCT A COW?
Somehow, Mantis Shrimp survived their fight, but is so beat up that he passes out right in front of the girls. Everyone feels so sorry for him that they nurse him back to health and feed him, prompting the grateful alien to pledge his loyalty to them. And Dover becomes even more sympathetic when it’s revealed he only took the job to pay for life-saving blood transfusions for his son. I might not approve of him working for the Serpoians, but I think most of us can agree that he’s a good dad! Also, we got this!
The funniest part, though? It turns out their species’ blood is exactly like cow milk. So we get one of the most over-the-top versions of the classic “Aliens stealing cattle” trope I have ever seen! And it’s made even funnier when Seiko refuses to believe that Mr. Shrimp’s an alien!
….Uh-Oh
This episode is mostly dealing with the falling action and aftermath to last week’s frankly insane experience. However, just when it looks like things might calm down, we get thrown another curve-ball. Momo’s childhood friend, a boy named Jiji, comes over, having been invited by her grandma to stay for reasons. And to make matters worse, Seiko tells Ken that Jiji was Momo’s first crush.
And with that, our love triangle has become a love…rectangle? Quadrangle? Double-triangle? No matter what it’s called, the look on Ken’s face and the previews for the next episode tell us that the drama’s about to increase. I feel so sorry for Ken right now!
I Give “”Have You Ever Seen a Cattle Mutilation?” a 4/5
Of all the times that the Serpo aliens could show up again, it had to be right when Momo was mad at Okarun. In the last episode, Aira began a love triangle between her, Momo, and Ken-Chan when she confessed her feelings to the boy. And, in typical comedic fashion, Momo showed up right as Okarun was in the most inopportune position possible with Aira. Now the three are trapped in a pocket dimension as the Serpos and their temp workers are trying to kill them while the entire school’s flooding.
Oh, and to make matters worse, Okarun doesn’t have any clothes to speak of. The aliens tore them to shreds. At least they now have another person who can go ghost in the form of Aira.
Momo, Just Say You’re Mad
So, after using the reveal that Aira can go ghost thanks to getting Acro Silky’s aura to their advantage, she and Okarun have to get over something just as bad: their embarassment. This is the first time that Aira’s seen a naked boy in real life, and her feelings get the better of her. Likewise, Ken wastes time trying to find clothes so he can fight. At some point, though, he decides to forget it and worry about it after they’re done fighting.
All things considered, the fights in this episode continue the series’ trend of making the action look as amazing as possible. Ken and Aira’s movements are fluid and don’t waste any time or energy unless needed. The show also doesn’t waste time making jokes over the facts that Okarun’s fighting this entire battle naked. A less mature story would make a bigger deal about it, but Dan Da Dan knows its better to wait. Though there is one moment when the girls decide to strip down to their underwear for the fight. The story justifies it beyond fanservice due to wet clothes hampering their movements. It’s not wrong. Unless they’re made of special material, wet clothes will become dead weight.
Amidst all the action, though, Momo (who manages to catch up to the two) can’t let go of her anger towards Okarun and Aira for their perceived wrongdoings behind her back. This is the second time that we’ve seen how Momo and Ken’s failures to communicate can negatively affect them. Momo won’t even hear Ken out when he tries to explain. The best that he can do is promise to provide context as soon as they’re safe, but the teamwork remains teeth-clenched.
The Serpo’s are Bad bosses
Thankfully, the same could be said for their alien assailants. The Serpo’s prove to be terrible bosses, constantly berating the Shrimp alien and the Nessy alien. It gets to the point where Nessy kills two of them, forcing the remaining one to fuse with all three to corner our trio. And since they’re fighting underwater, they’re in real danger of drowning. The fact that the show used such dark colors for the seemingly bottomless water gave the entire fight a very unsettling appearance. As someone who doesn’t like swimming in places where I can’t see the bottom, I was genuinely unnerving to watch.
It takes some effort, and an awesome combo move from the trio, but eventually, our heroes manage to kick the alien’s butt, complete with a finishing move straight out of a video game. However, that fight pales in comparison to what they go through next. Once the alien’s Domain Expansion wears off, they return to reality. In the middle of the crowded hallway. With two girls in their underwear and Ken naked.
They’re Gonna Have to Go to a Different School Now
I won’t lie, this scene would be absolutely hysterical to look at. Though, given how it’s pretty much the most embarrassing thing a teenager could experience in high school, my pity outweighs my sense of humor. They’re either going to need a very good excuse…or find a way to erase everyone’s memories. Either way, the next episode is going to be hard for them.
Once again, we had a fun episode of Dan Da Dan. With the year almost over, I’m getting ready to come up with my picks for my favorite anime of the year. Needless to say, this show is going to be in the running.
The Ultimate Guide to East Asian Pop Culture. Dive into Anime Episode Reviews, Kdrama Recaps, Manga, Comics, & Graphic Novel Discussions. Discover Japanese Culture, Folklore, Mythology, and Adult Animated Series News.
D&A Anime Blog 