Dan Da Danhas become a standout in the shonen genre, not only for its mix of sci-fi and supernatural elements and humor but also forits ability to balance those with unexpected romance. In a genre where action often overshadows emotional depth, the budding relationship between Okarun,whose real name is Ken Takakura, and Momo goes against the norm. While their connection may seem unconventional at first glance, there is actually anunderlying layer that makes it work between them.
In the first episode ofDan Da Dan, a new hit anime adapted from Yukinobu Tatsu’s manga, an unlikely pair is formed when Ken Takakura, a socially awkward and bullied boy obsessed with aliens and the occult, meets Momo Ayase, a good-looking, fashionable girl with a terrible taste for men and a firm belief in ghosts and spirits. Due to a bet to see what is actually real between aliens and ghosts, the two got dragged into a supernatural adventure while forging a surprising bond that goes beyond friendship.
Momo and Okarun’s Mutual Desperation For Connection Serves to Build Their Trust For Each Other
Small Moments Between Them Build The Foundation For Their Mutual Trust
Both Momo and Okaruncome from lonely places when they meet, each desiring something from someone else. Their bond then becomes forged in the most unusual and absurd situations by encountering aliens and ghosts, and becauseOkarun gets possessed by a powerful and dangerous ghost. However, it is these events that create the backdrop for their growing relationship, allowing them to open up and rely on each other in ways they hadn’t with anyone else before.
Momo and Okarun’s relationship starts under abnormal circumstances, but their mutual desire for connection with another person drives them toward one another. Both characters are outsiders in their own right—Okarun is socially awkward and bullied, while Momo feels isolated due to her inability, thus far, to find her ideal romantic relationship. This lonelinessmakes them desperate for someone who truly understandsthem. Their bond forms almost instantaneously when they cross paths, only becoming stronger after their shared encounters with the paranormal.
Okarun and Momo end up filling a void for one another, allowing trust to form between them as they slowly open up and navigate the strange phenomena happening around them.While the danger they face is often absurd, their vulnerability to each other is very real. Okarun and Momo reveal raw, honest parts of themselves to each other that others may have previously dismissed or overlooked. Through these shared moments, theyfind that they can rely on and trust each other.
Okarun and Momo Complement Each Other In and Out of Battle
Momo and Okarun Are Perfectly Imperfect When They’re Together
Okarun and Momo’s dynamic shines both in and out of battle, as theircontrasting personalities balance each otherout. Momo’s bold, take-charge attitude is in stark contrast to Okarun’s cautious and somewhat timid approach, and this is what allows them both to thrive in situations where the other may struggle alone. During battle, Momo has been shown to have great confidence and combat skills, which gives Okarun the courage he typically lacks. On the other hand, Okarun’s strategic and inspired mind helps Momo through tough situations where their back is against the wall.
Together, they make a well-rounded team with their strengths complementing each other’s weaknesses, making them all the more effective as a duo. Their contrasting traits help them build off one another and gain more confidence and courage than they could have had alone. Momo and Okarunbring out the best in each other, creating a balance that goes beyond the battlefield. This is something that most shonen series fail to achieve, mostly because female characters are often underrepresented or treated like accessories to the (male) protagonist.
Okarun and Momo’s Growth Is a Direct Reflection of Their Bond
From Here On Out, Momo and Okarun’s Relationship Can Only Grow
InDan Da Dan, Okarun and Momo’spersonal growth is directly tied to the bond they’ve formedthrough their fast-paced journey. In the beginning, both characters were limited by the insecurities they had. Okarun struggled with his self-worth while Momo hid behind her tough exterior. Yet, as they grow closer, their relationship allows them to confront these inner struggles, allowing Okarun to gain confidence through Momo’s belief in him, and allowing Momo to be more emotionally open. Their bond with one another isenhanced through their shared experiences, something that only a series that gives equal importance to its male and female lead from the start could achieve.
Fans of pure shonen should not be worried, however.Dan Da Danhas plenty of action, comedy, and spectacular battles to make it fit perfectly in the genre. However, it also manages to depict romance positively and satisfyingly. Momo and Okarun’s growth and evolution reflect how much they have come to mean to one another. Their journey together inDan Da Danshows that the bond they forged with one another is long-lasting and will only continue to grow.
Dandadan
Cast
Two high school students, embroiled in a wager to prove the existence of ghosts or aliens, encounter daunting paranormal threats, acquire superpowers, and possibly discover love. The series blends supernatural elements with personal dynamics as the protagonists navigate their newfound abilities and unexpected challenges.
