Dandadan has emerged as one of the standout anime series of 2024, capturing widespread attention shortly after its launch in early October. The series has enjoyed remarkable success across various platforms, especially on Netflix, where it secured a position among the top 10 most-streamed anime titles during the latter half of 2024 alongside iconic franchises like Naruto, One Piece, and Demon Slayer.
However, fans faced a significant concern regarding physical media releases—a phenomenon often referred to as the Netflix Curse. Historically, Netflix has been slow to distribute DVDs and Blu-rays of the anime it streams and its original productions. Given these past patterns, many were skeptical about the prospect of seeing a physical release of Dandadan anytime soon. Contrary to these expectations, Dandadan Season 1 is now available for pre-order on Amazon, defying the Netflix Curse in an unprecedented timeframe. Fans can choose between a Standard Edition for $34.98 or a Collector’s Edition, which retails for $64.98 and includes exclusive extras such as art cards, a sticker, and a 32-page art book. Both editions are scheduled for release on June 10, 2025, which is exciting news for dedicated fans and collectors alike.
From Manga Sensation to Anime Phenomenon
A Story That Defies Genre—and Expectations
Originally a creation by Yukinobu Tatsu, known for contributions to prominent works like Chainsaw Man and Hell’s Paradise, Dandadan first surfaced as a manga on Shōnen Jump+ in April 2021. Rapidly elevating to popularity, it garnered over a million views per chapter, joining the ranks of digital phenomena such as Spy x Family. The year 2024 saw Science SARU adapt the manga into a thrilling TV anime, airing from October to December, followed by the announcement of a second season slated for July 2025.
The narrative centers around high school student Momo Ayase, who harbors a belief in ghosts, and her companion Okarun, a self-proclaimed UFO enthusiast. Their venture to disprove each other leads them to encounter real otherworldly events, enabling them to harness supernatural abilities. This compelling blend of action, humor, and an unpredictable storyline has resonated with diverse audiences. The anime’s animation quality and adherence to the source material have earned it significant acclaim, further boosting its popularity both in Japan and globally.
How Did Dandadan Beat the Netflix Curse?
A Win for Fans and Collectors
The exact reasons behind Dandadan’s ability to circumvent the Netflix Curse remain somewhat ambiguous. However, it is plausible that the production team aimed to distribute the series to fans quickly, especially following its impressive feat of accumulating an estimated 97 million viewing hours on Netflix in 2024. Another possibility is that the licensing agreement was designed with physical media in mind from the outset, setting it apart from previous Netflix-distributed titles like Devilman Crybaby, which never saw a U.S. Blu-ray release, or Beastars, which took almost two years to release its first season on disc. In this instance, while Netflix retained streaming rights alongside other platforms, GKIDS has taken charge of the home video distribution.
Regardless of the specifics, Dandadan‘s prompt leap from streaming success to physical availability marks a significant win for both fans and collectors. This unique occurrence illustrates that the dreaded Netflix Curse may not be as insurmountable as previously thought.
Source: Manga Alerts on X