Dan Da Dan Season 2 Review
Introduction
The highly anticipated Season 2 of Dan Da Dan (titled "Evil Eye") premiered in July 2025 on Netflix and Crunchyroll, continuing its unique blend of drama, horror, sci‑fi, and comedy. Produced by Science SARU, the series builds on its breakout first season by diving into two intense arcs from Yukinobu Tatsu’s manga—the Cursed House and Evil Eye arcs. Released theatrically as a compilation film in Asia, Europe, and North America, Evil Eye delivers bigger stakes, deeper character work, and heightened supernatural spectacle.
Plot & Story Arcs
Season 2 seamlessly picks up where Season 1 left off, launching into the Cursed House arc—a chilling journey through a haunted mansion filled with tragic spirits, illusions, and claustrophobic tension . This arc transitions into the Evil Eye arc, introducing a powerful new threat tied to the enigmatic “Evil Eye,” while exploring its complex emotional impact on the heroes .
Character Development
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Momo Ayase grows into a stronger, more decisive heroine. Her courage and emotional depth shine as she navigates increasingly terrifying situations.
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Ken "Okarun" Takakura evolves from anxious, comedic relief into a more self-aware and confident fighter. His powers see dramatic growth, reflecting his inner transformation
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Jiji, the creature-turned-human ally, receives more screen time and emotional arc. Critics noted the early episodes position him as both a comedic foil and a vital emotional core.
Animation & Technical Prowess
Science SARU’s creative team continues to impress:
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They blend 2D animation with new 3D techniques in high-stakes scenes—enhancing depth without sacrificing style.
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The production experiments with pencil‑style cuts and textured animation, lending a raw, visceral feel to the horror sequences.
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Action scenes—particularly the epic Momo vs. the Kitos family and Okarun vs. Evil Eye battles—shine with fluidity, intensity, and visual panache.
Sound Design & Score
The haunting score and dynamic soundscape play a vital role:
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Background music amplifies tension in horror sequences and elevates emotional climaxes.
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The audio effects—screeching floorboards, supernatural roars, high-adrenaline fight sounds—create fully immersive experiences.
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Fans and critics alike have praised the new, memorable Okarun-accessory OSTs, which reinforce character-driven moments.
Themes & Tone
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Genre fusion: Dan Da Dan continues its bold oscillation between horror, sci‑fi, romantic comedy, and teenage drama—entertaining while refusing to be pigeonholed.
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Connection & empathy: The bond between Momo and Okarun deepens, grounded in mutual care. Their dynamic remains a pillar amidst the supernatural.
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Expanding horror: The Kito family invokes home‑invasion terror echoes, while the looming Kuragari Serpent Lord delivers cosmic-level dread.
Reception
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Critically acclaimed—with a 100% Tomatometer—Season 2 has been hailed as “anime’s ultimate genre chameleon” and praised for maintaining the top-tier energy of Season 1.
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Fans on Letterboxd and other forums celebrate the season’s balance of humor, horror, and action, and commend the elevated pacing and focus.
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Some criticism surrounds pacing: as Evil Eye compiles only the first three episodes into a film, it feels like “an appetizer” rather than a resolution.
Creative Insights
Interviews with co‑director Abel Góngora reveal the production’s innovative mindset:
"We use more 3D… mix it with traditional animation to look cool… some cuts very difficult with traditional"
Góngora also emphasizes the creative freedom afforded by close collaboration with the manga’s author, which allowed unique storytelling flourishes without betraying the original tone .
Final Verdict
Dan Da Dan Season 2: Evil Eye secures its place as one of the most exhilarating anime sequels of 2025. It delivers on every front:
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Visceral horror that chills.
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High‑octane action that thrills.
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Romantic tension that deepens.
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Character arcs that resonate.
While its theatrical treatment limits narrative closure, it leaves viewers excited and eager for ongoing episodes. If you're already invested in the first season—or simply crave bold storytelling with a twist—Season 2 is a must-watch.
Looking Ahead
With the core arcs underway and the series capacity to shift direction with each episode, Dan Da Dan promises more surprises, deeper lore, and continually escalating supernatural stakes. Stay tuned—this is one ride far from over!
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