Dandadanis arguably the most popular anime of the season, and its most recent Episode #10, titled, “Have You Ever Seen a Cattle Mutilation?” proves that it doesn’t always need its trademark frantic action to remain entertaining. Chronicling a rare section of downtime in the series, following thecontroversial fight with Nessie, the bulk of the runtime is devoted to the main cast providing assistance to their new mantis-shrimp-alien friend. The episode ends with a bang, however, asDandadanfinally introduces Momo’s childhood friend, Jiji, to the anime.
While recruiting new members to the supernatural squad will surely be helpful in fights with ghosts and aliens, Jiji brings along some baggage. Not only is he a childhood friend of the series' co-protagonist,he was also her first love. The boy that was shown making fun of Momo’s ritual in Episode #1 has officially stepped onto the scene, and his arrival puts Okarun’s romantic aspirations in danger.
Dandadan Introduces Momo’s First Love
Jiji Is Momo’s Childhood Friend and First Crush
One ofDandadan’s most appealing qualities is its wholesome buddingromance between Momo and Okarun. The two are often seen either at each other’s throats, or sharing moments so sweet they couldthaw the iciest hearts in the series' audience. And while Momo gained a competitor over the last few episodes in Aira, Okarun now has competition of his own in the quest for Momo’s heart.
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Jiji is the polar opposite ofDandadan’s meek protagonistin just about every way. Tall, athletic, good-looking, and outgoing, Jiji represents the deepest of Okarun’s insecurities. And though the occult-crazed, quiet high schooler has gained some confidence through his undeniably awesome Turbo Granny powers, he still struggles with his own feelings of inadequacy. And now that Jiji has entered the series, Okarun may have to contend with a deadlier threat than any ghost or alien can pose.
Jiji’s Presence Will Force Okarun to Grow
Making Its Characters Uncomfortable Is How Dandadan Forces Growth
Since their very first interaction,Dandadanhas consistently placed its characters in uncomfortable situations, all for the purpose of forcing character growth.Momo’s first controversial supernatural experienceforced her to accept the spiritual powers from which she had always been running, while Okarun was forced to open himself up to someone else, gaining a friend for his troubles. When Aira joined the cast, the trio were trapped in the nude following the fight with Nessie, exposing them to the entire school.
From the experience, Aira was forced to drop her popular image and become a little kinder. Now that Jiji is joining the cast, his presence will more than likely push Okarun out of his comfort zone once again, andforce him to confront his feelings for Momo. Okarun will need to learn how to be direct with his first friend and potential future romantic partner, and Jiji may just be what pushes him in that direction.
Dandadanis nearing the end of its 13-episode run, and has been packed full of everything from ghosts, aliens, romance, and missing reproductive organs. In the few short episodes that remain, fans can expect to get to know Jiji better, and decide whether he is truly friend or foe to Okarun.
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.
