In the bustling halls of a high school, a tale of supernatural proportions unfolds with the premiere episode of "DAN DA DAN" titled "That's How Love Starts, Ya Know!" This episode sets the stage for a thrilling journey into the unknown, introducing us to Momo Ayase and Ken Takakura, two students whose paths are about to be forever altered by the forces of the extraterrestrial and the occult.
The episode begins with a dramatic breakup, as Momo's boyfriend, motivated by greed rather than love, leaves her side. This event, while heartbreaking for Momo, serves as a catalyst for her character development and her subsequent adventures. Her strength is evident as she confronts her bullies, showcasing her resilience and inner power.
As the story progresses, we are introduced to Ken, a bespectacled boy with a penchant for the unknown. He is the antithesis of Momo in many ways, with his belief in aliens and Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) contrasting sharply with Momo's skepticism. Yet, it is their shared sense of isolation and desire for acceptance that draws them together.
The heart of the episode lies in the challenge they set for each other: to prove the existence of ghosts and aliens. This challenge takes them to two different locations, each steeped in mystery and danger. Momo ventures into an abandoned hospital, a place rumored to be haunted, while Ken stands at the entrance of a dark tunnel, a hotspot for UFO sightings.
Momo's journey into the hospital is fraught with tension, as she navigates the eerie corridors, her only companion a phone call with Ken. The atmosphere is palpable, and the audience is drawn into her fear and determination. Her encounter with the aliens is a turning point, as she is captured and faced with a fate that no human should endure. Yet, it is in this moment that Momo's true strength is revealed.
Meanwhile, Ken's encounter with Turbo Granny in the tunnel is both comical and terrifying. His fear is juxtaposed with his fascination with the supernatural, and his subsequent possession by Turbo Granny adds a layer of complexity to his character. His struggle to maintain control over his body while trying to protect Momo highlights his bravery and loyalty.
The climax of the episode is a battle of wills and powers. Momo, with her spiritual power awakened, fights against the aliens and Turbo Granny. The scene is intense, with Momo's power growing as she remembers her grandmother's teachings. Her victory over the aliens and Turbo Granny is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and emotional one, as she reclaims her sense of self and belief in her family's legacy.
The episode concludes with a twist, as Momo and Ken come to terms with the reality of the supernatural. Their acceptance of each other's beliefs and their shared experiences forge a bond between them. The revelation of Ken's full name, Ken Takakura, adds a layer of irony and humor, as Momo realizes she has found a connection with someone who shares a name with the actor she admired.
"DAN DA DAN" Season 1, Episode 1 is a powerful introduction to a series that promises to be both thrilling and heartwarming. It sets the stage for a journey into the unknown, where the lines between reality and the supernatural are blurred. As Momo and Ken's worlds collide, they embark on a path that will test their beliefs, their courage, and their friendship. With the promise of more mind-bending adventures to come, "DAN DA DAN" is a series that has earned its place among the most anticipated anime of the season.