Dandadan Episode 1 was anticipated to focus on introducing viewers to its dual protagonists, Okarun and Momo Ayase, and the episode fulfilled this expectation. Officially released on Thursday, October 3, 2024, the debut episode primarily centered on the pair, showcasing their first meeting and a memorable bet they made with each other.
Beyond being a highlight of the Fall 2024 anime season, Dandadan Episode 1 is regarded by fans as a potential breakout hit in the shonen genre. While it’s early to make definitive claims, the series premiere successfully paves the way with a compelling introduction.
Dandadan Episode 1 Introduces Viewers to Okarun, Momo Ayase, Turbo Granny, and More
The episode begins with Momo Ayase experiencing a painful breakup when her boyfriend kicks her in the stomach, leaving her doubled over. Despite his abusive ways, she confesses to her friends that she stayed with him because he resembled Japanese actor Ken Takakura.
As she sadly wanders the school halls, she intervenes in a bullying incident, helping a boy by ensuring he’s left alone. He chases after her, claiming he knows she shares his interest in the sci-fi supernatural, but her lack of interest prompts her to scold him for not taking a hint and leaving her be.
Shortly after, Momo apologizes for her harshness and engages him in a conversation about their beliefs in ghosts. Initially dismissive, he soon learns that Momo’s grandmother is a genuine spirit medium, which initiates a friendly “contest” between them to see whose supernatural claims are more credible.
Her friends observe their interaction, hinting that they don’t mind the possibility of a relationship developing between Momo and the boy. They eventually make a bet about the validity of each other’s beliefs, going to different supernatural hotspots. Momo’s contact refers to the boy as Occult-kun, which shortens to “Okarun” derived from the word occult. She heads to Nagi Hospital, known for UFO sightings, while Okarun journeys to an abandoned tunnel, rumored to be a spiritual hotspot.
The plot thickens as Momo shares ghostly experiences and rituals associated with her peculiar family. After some reflection, she realizes her feelings were misdirected when the boy she liked made fun of her grandmother. This realization sparks more depth in their connection.
Dandadan Episode 1 progresses with Momo expressing her gratitude to her grandmother. She questions Okarun about his belief in aliens, to which he candidly admits he doesn’t have a clear reason. Moments later, footsteps appear behind him as the intimidating Turbo Granny makes her entrance, prompting a frightened Okarun to flee the tunnel despite Momo’s urging.
As the tension rises, Momo is abducted by three aliens, who reveal their identity as Serpoians from the planet Serpo, interested in harvesting her reproductive organs for genetic diversity in their all-male race. Momo resolutely rejects their proposal, declaring her chastity is saved for the yet-to-meet Ken Takakura. The ensuing chaos is interrupted by Okarun’s possessed body, presenting a unique twist in their supernatural encounter.
The episode culminates in a thrilling battle as Turbo Granny fully possesses Okarun, revealing his longing to connect with aliens, believing they could be friends due to his lack of companionship on Earth. Expressing gratitude for Momo’s outreach, Okarun’s character develops deeper as he vows to protect her, even if it means becoming a monster.
Momo, inspired by her grandmother’s advice, unleashes her spiritual powers, leading to an intense confrontation with the Serpoians. She momentarily restrains Turbo Granny, allowing Okarun to regain his sanity. Together, they escape the aliens’ ship as it crash-lands on Earth.
The episode concludes with Okarun expressing apologies to Momo for involving her in the ordeal, making a passing reference to Ken Takakura, which leaves her stunned. When asked for his real name, he inadvertently reveals it to be Ken Takakura, creating a cliffhanger moment that leaves viewers eager for more.
In Summation
Dandadan Episode 1 successfully introduces its protagonists and establishes their dynamic while setting the stage for the primary conflict of the series. It is apparent that Okarun will be focused on lifting Turbo Granny’s curse and reclaiming what he has lost.
The episode also hints that both aliens and ghosts will play pivotal roles in the upcoming conflicts, breaking the usual narrative mold. Fans can look forward to the duo, Momo and Okarun, continuing their supernatural escapades when the series resumes with Episode 2 and beyond.
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