Warning: Spoilers for Dandadan Episode 12 and Chapter #34
Dandadan has wrapped up the first part of its inaugural season, igniting heated discussions among viewers regarding the portrayal of unsettling graphic content. Following the events introduced in episode 11, which featured Jiji alongside Momo and Okarun exploring Daija Town, the season finale entered the intense Cursed House Arc. The conclusion of the episode left audiences in shock, as it culminated in an unsettling cliffhanger that puts Momo in peril, facing an assault from a group of unidentified men.
This series, while showcasing themes typical of shōnen anime, has faced backlash for its frequent and intense sexual content. Rather than reducing these provocative elements, the anime adaptation appears to accentuate Momo’s assault in the finale purposely to provoke controversy and discussion.
Dandadan’s Deliberate Adjustments to Emphasize Controversy
The Cliffhanger: A Pivotal and Anticlimactic Adaptation Change
In the closing moments of Dandadan’s first season, significant alterations were made to the sequence of scenes, notably during the contentious scene set in the hot springs. In the source material, chapter 33 details Okarun and Jiji discovering a hidden room, while the follow-up chapter showcases a group of women from the Kito family, who had previously observed the protagonists from afar. This deviates from what is shown in the anime, which emphasizes the men storming the hot springs and attempting to overpower Momo.
The anime escalates the drama by introducing an original scene where Momo is held underwater, contrasting with the manga where her struggle is less extended and swiftly resolved thanks to Turbo Granny’s intervention. These adaptations seem designed to bolster interest in the series and generate anticipation for a potential next season. However, concluding Dandadan’s first part during Momo’s assault, while omitting the captivating subplot involving the mysterious woman pursuing Okarun and Jiji, inadvertently magnifies a moment that can be interpreted as sexual assault.
Despite the various enhancements made to the source material, this particular shift in focus from a broader conspiracy involving the village to Momo’s distressing situation feels both unnecessary and troubling. It appears to be a tactic employed by the production team to ensure viewer engagement, particularly when a sequel has not yet been confirmed.
Alternative Directions for Dandadan’s Season Finale
Dandadan’s Narrative Should Be Able to Stand Without Controversy
Dandadan has garnered acclaim as one of the standout animes of 2024, and its growing fanbase highlights the potential of the series to deliver a more balanced narrative without resorting to sensationalism. An alternate conclusion could have effectively built tension—such as depicting Jiji confronting the Kito family women just as Momo is glimpsed in a vulnerable position—but still evoking a sense of foreboding without focusing predominantly on sensitive themes.
Additionally, trimming certain overly extended sequences—such as Taro’s prolonged run, Okarun’s musings during the train ride, or the trio’s arrival in Daija Town—might have allowed for a more satisfying resolution, culminating in Momo’s rescue and Turbo Granny’s exposition on the nature of the cursed house. This would mitigate the impression that the series leans excessively on sexual content for shock value. Although elements of humor persist within the storyline, such as the protagonists’ escapades in their underwear and running gags involving bananas and jewels, there are instances that address more serious subjects, like assaults, which could be triggering for some viewers.
The over-reliance on shock tactics diminishes the audience’s perception of Dandadan’s narrative. While the goal should not be to exploit fanservice, the representation of significant themes deserves thoughtful handling. Despite the evident sensitivity surrounding certain scenes, it’s worth noting that the creative decisions taken during this adaptation have successfully drawn in new audiences, thanks in part to Science Saru’s impressive animation. Excitement builds for Dandadan’s second season, which is slated for release next year, as fans eagerly anticipate the unfolding of the story.