In the whirlwind of anime releases in Fall 2024, Dan Da Dan has carved out a unique niche for itself with its wild blend of ghosts, aliens, and teenage chaos. But beneath its psychedelic visuals and bonkers plot lies a hidden gem that’s capturing fans’ hearts: the use of regional accents in its Japanese voice acting. Specifically, the show’s embrace of Kansai-ben, the lively accent of Japan’s Kansai region, has become a defining feature that elevates its charm.
The Accent Advantage
Momo Ayase, voiced by Shion Wakayama, bursts onto the scene with a brash Kansai twang that has fans hooked. Her accent isn’t just flavor; it’s identity—underscoring her tough, no-nonsense vibe as a delinquent-turned-heroine. The contrast with Okarun’s more standard Tokyo inflection adds depth to their dynamic, but it’s the supporting cast where the accents truly shine. Turbo Granny, voiced by Kikuko Inoue, is a masterclass in voice acting, flipping between a gravelly Kansai drawl and a refined tone, reflecting her dual nature as a yokai and ex-hostess.
Why It Works
These accents aren’t just gimmicks; they’re a storytelling tool. Kansai-ben amplifies the show’s humor and heart with its rhythmic cadence and blunt edge. It makes every line hit harder—funny when it’s funny, raw when it’s real. This nod to the manga’s roots, with creator Yukinobu Tatsu hailing from Kansai, infuses the characters with that regional spirit.
Standout Moments
- Momo’s Rants: Episode 5’s bike chase showcases Momo’s Kansai-ben exploding as she curses out aliens, delivering a memorable “Nani sore!?” that fans can’t get enough of.
- Turbo Granny’s Switch: Episode 7 highlights her dialect shift during the bathhouse fight, a masterclass in voice acting that leaves viewers in awe.
- Ensemble Chaos: Episode 11 blends accents as Momo, Jiji, and Turbo Granny team up, with their banter stealing the show.
Conclusion
As Dan Da Dan approaches its finale, it’s clear that its regional accents are more than just a quirky feature—they deepen the characters, ground the absurdity, and make every moment pop. Science Saru’s animation dazzles, but it’s the voice cast that wields Kansai-ben like a superpower, cementing the show’s legacy as a standout in the anime world.
