The third episode of “ Dandadan ” continued the
story that has kept viewers on the edge of their seats for the past few weeks. As Turbo
Grandma’s curse spirals out of control, the need to defeat this
genital-stealing evil spirit hangs like a dark cloud over Momo and Okarun.
Far from this feeling like the calm before the storm,
however, this episode brought with it a new character, none other than Momo's
grandmother, Seiko Ayase, a spiritual medium. The opening scene shows Grandma Seiko in the
worst possible light, as she gives one psychic reading after another
incorrectly on live television, no less.
— d0nut2x (@d0nut2x) October 17, 2024
The joke is probably
on the audience, as Seiko's introduction subverts their expectations of an old,
seasoned spirit medium. However, as it turns out, Seiko is much more than she
seems. The first act conveniently knocks out Momo and Okarun, thus setting up a
big clash between the two grandmothers with no distractions. Short and
explosive, the duel ends with Turbo Grandma's defeat on Grandma Seiko's turf,
but this is just the beginning of trouble for everyone.
The introduction of
Grandma Seiko also brings a different dynamic between the characters, as there
is now someone who challenges Momo's temper on equal terms. Grandma
Seiko is also the first adult authority figure that the two teens respond to,
again altering their chemistry. This leads to some comedic outbursts
between the trio of Momo, Okarun, and Grandma Seiko, as well as some heartfelt
moments that no one would have anticipated.
Seiko Ayase is so fucking cool pic.twitter.com/5yChZ63VTM
— d0nut2x (@d0nut2x) October 17, 2024
Grandma
looks youthful despite her age and has a foul mouth for someone with religious
responsibilities. Her
competent aura brings stability to the episode's pace, allowing the story to
take a breather from all the non-stop action. Not only does she become
the group's parental figure, but she's also the most experienced in dealing
with curses as a spirit medium. Simultaneously, she's the group's
secret weapon and source of information. Most importantly, she's a fun and
unpredictable character.
Where most anime
involving spirits and mystical powers fail, “Dandadan” continues to succeed.
While the series features a wide cast of characters, episodes focus on the
personal growth of one or two characters at a time. The focus on
character development, combined with wild visuals, amazing fights, and
hilarious dialogue, is what makes “Dandadan” stand out as the most refreshing
anime of this season.
Source: Twitter
