Dandadan’s First Arc Concludes with a Captivating Finale

Key Insights

Episode 4 of Dandadan serves up thrilling action, enhanced by a striking soundtrack and stunning animation.
The collaboration between Momo and Okarun stands out, as Momo’s strategic thinking perfectly aligns with Okarun’s frantic heroism.
The touching finale shines through its romantic aspects, leaving viewers eager for the next installment.

Title	Taste
Director	Fuga Yamashiro
Studio	Science Saru
Episode Release Date	10/24/2024

Disclaimer: The following contains minor spoilers for Dandadan, Episode 4, titled “Kicking Turbo Granny’s Ass”, now available for streaming on Crunchyroll.

A series that truly lives up to its title is always a delight, and this episode certainly delivers, even if it features our protagonists mainly in flight. Dandadan wraps up its initial arc with exhilarating action scenes and noteworthy music that engage audiences at lightning speed.

Previously, Momo’s grandmother, Seiko, intervened to save the possessed Okarun before confining him in the central shrine, allowing for their reunion after a tumultuous day. However, facing Turbo Granny’s threat to use Okarun for her curses, they urgently devised a strategy to draw her away from the town for an effective exorcism.

The Eponymous “Ass-Kicking”Marks a Start

As soon as Momo and Okarun reach the unsettling tunnel harboring Turbo Granny, chaos ensues. It’s Momo’s quick wit and self-assurance that prevent this from becoming a very short saga, as she boldly challenges the spirit to a race. But even that does little to hinder the old hag from twisting the rules to suit her needs, almost derailing their mission before they leave the tunnel.

This episode emphasizes Okarun’s journey to overcome his feelings of inadequacy. Despite his past grand gestures of defense, the battles ultimately resolve with Momo saving the day, and he yearns not to be a burden on her, even if she doesn’t view him that way. Without divulging too much, Momo does manage to have a hero moment in this episode too, though their survival is a mutual effort, as highlighted this week.

The Thrill of Momo and Okarun’s Collaboration

Momo’s intelligence leads her to take heroic risks that often yield successful outcomes, while Okarun counters with raw determination and grit. His moments of bravery are chaotic, as exemplified in how he creatively turns the tables on Turbo Granny. Surprising as it is that only six minutes have ticked away by the time the opening finishes, this is just the beginning.

The duo finds themselves sprinting from a gigantic, crab-like spirit trapped in the tunnel, where Okarun’s Turbo form can only assist them so much, even with his superhuman speed. Their combined might—Momo’s intellect along with her psychic abilities—gives them the edge they need. This partnership, a highlight of the entire story arc, does not disappoint, especially when Momo utilizes her psychic powers in creative ways reminiscent of Spider-Man.

A Dazzling, Blood-Red Spectacle

Dandadan consistently impresses with its visually captivating scenes, framed with creative direction that seeks out the most engaging perspectives. The audio elements are arguably even more potent. Kensuke Ushio’s score, especially his remix of the William Tell Overture, stands out as a highlight of the episode. The overall sound design adds significant depth to the series, both technically and emotionally.

Particularly impactful is the moment when Okarun crashes through the railing and both characters are launched into the air above the city. Momo’s surprised “For real!?”lingers in the air, while the sound effects and music swell, creating an immersive experience that feels like colliding with sound at breakneck speed. Sound director Eriko Kimura (Devilman Crybaby, Heavenly Delusion) deserves accolades for this accomplishment.

Unveiling Turbo Granny’s Truth, and a Farewell

As the relentless pace of Episode 4 finally decelerates, it does so with emotional resonance and an unexpected touch of humor. The defeat of Turbo Granny unveils new insights into the spirit’s essence, encouraging viewers to reflect on the previous episodes and reconsider their perceptions of her. Surprisingly, the most riveting moment of the week doesn’t come from a physical confrontation but rather from an emotional struggle.

This series fans quickly highlight that the romantic threads interwoven in the narrative are as captivating as the supernatural elements that define it. Finally, the characters find a moment to unwind with the hope of returning to their normal lives; however, this tranquility comes hand in hand with a unique apprehension. They’re left haunted by the worry that their next conversation might only occur due to supernatural forces, the heavy weight of a single word looms: “Goodbye”.

Often, it is in the simplest moments where the deepest impact lies, and Dandadan expertly balances the ordinary with the extraordinary. While it may be challenging to beat the stellar first episode, this first narrative arc has laid a strong foundation, positioning the show well for the exploration of new characters and an array of paranormal wonders ahead.

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