Dandadan became one of the most successful anime series of 2024, grabbing audiences with its gripping storyline, stunning animation, and memorable characters. For long-time anime fans, a strong cast of characters is crucial for any series to succeed, and Dandadan does not disappoint in this aspect. Unlike some anime that struggle with developing their characters, this series excels at crafting characters that resonate deeply with viewers.
While the show boasts a diverse and fascinating cast, the two protagonists—Okarun and Momo Ayase—stand out the most. Though the characters have different passions, their shared curiosity binds them together throughout the series. Yukinobu Tatsu, the author behind Dandadan, has a deep connection with each character, making it hard for him to pick a favorite. In an interview with Shonen Jump+, he revealed that Momo Ayase is, in fact, his favorite character.
Yukinobu Tatsu’s Affection for Momo Ayase
Dandadan Episode 10 Still
Tatsu shared that he is so fond of Momo Ayase that he would often redraw her whenever he felt that she wasn’t “cute enough.” This dedication sometimes caused delays in the production of Dandadan, but Tatsu’s commitment to his characters is clear. He also compared Momo to Superman, explaining that while Superman’s superpowers are important, his true influence comes from inspiring others to stand up against injustice.
In the same way, Momo’s words and actions motivate those around her to take a stand. Her courage and determination to do what’s right, even in difficult circumstances, give others the strength to rise up, just like Superman does in the face of evil. Tatsu’s comparison highlights the empowering and inspirational qualities of Momo, making her more than just a character in the story.
Tatsu’s Insights on Dandadan’s Creation and Inspirations
Bamora from Dandadan (cc: Yukinobu Tatsu)
Yukinobu Tatsu also spoke about the scene that stood out the most to him: when a cow is taken by a UFO. According to Tatsu, this scene felt like everything finally came together in a meaningful way. The author also shared that since COVID-19, he works alone while his assistants operate remotely. Despite this shift, Tatsu remains focused on his mission to entertain and bring joy to his fans.
Tatsu’s commitment to researching Japanese folklore plays a significant role in Dandadan’s world-building. He spends considerable time studying various aspects of folklore to incorporate these elements into the story. The creatures and occult themes in the series are inspired by his go into Japan’s rich cultural heritage, adding layers of depth to the narrative.
Where to Read Dandadan
Fans who want to investigate deeper into the Dandadan universe can check out the manga, available through official platforms like Shonen Jump+. The interview with Tatsu reveals so much about his creative process and his passion for his work, making it a must-read for any Dandadan fan.
Sakamoto Days has emerged as one of Netflix’s standout anime titles, new fans with its weekly episodes. Its strong storyline and characters have made it one of the most anticipated releases on the streaming platform. However, while new fans seem mostly excited, long-time manga readers have voiced concerns about the adaptation, especially when it comes to the animation quality. The action scenes in particular have garnered mixed reviews.
Some fans have expressed disappointment regarding the stiffness of the action scenes, which were highlighted in the trailers. The sequences did not seem to match the fluidity and intensity of the manga or other Shonen Jump anime. These concerns affected the initial reception, as some viewers felt the animation did not live up to the expectations set by the source material.
Signs of a Rushed Production
Sakamoto Days (Credits: Yuto Suzuki)
The production quality has sparked discussions, especially after it was revealed that 23 studios were credited for a single episode. Outsourcing parts of the production is a common practice in the anime industry, but when too many studios are involved, it can indicate a rushed schedule. Some fans worry that overworking the animators and tight deadlines could be affecting the show’s overall quality.
Netflix requested that TMS produce the episodes in advance to facilitate simultaneous releases and dubbed versions. While this could have allowed the team more time to craft the show, some believe the production was rushed to meet the deadlines. Fans fear that the second part of the series, scheduled for release in July 2025, could be even worse in terms of animation quality.
Fan Reactions and Concerns
Sakamoto Days (Credits: Yuto Suzuki)
On platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), fans have reacted negatively to the reports of rushed production. Many expressed frustration over how a popular series like Sakamoto Days was handled, wondering why more time wasn’t given to ensure a smoother adaptation. One fan shared their disappointment, noting that while they are enjoying the show, they believe it could have been better if the production had received more time and attention.
Despite these concerns, some fans have remained supportive, praising the efforts of the staff to produce a quality show under difficult circumstances. Even if the animation quality isn’t perfect, there are those who appreciate what has been accomplished given the limitations.
Where to Watch Sakamoto Days
For those interested in catching up with Sakamoto Days, the anime is exclusively available on Netflix, offering a convenient platform for fans to follow the weekly releases. While some concerns have been raised, many continue to enjoy the series, appreciating its unique take on the action genre.
