Dandelion Review
Director: Daisuke Mataga
Date Created: 2026-04-16 18:49
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Dandelion Review: Directed by Daisuke Mataga, Netflix’s Japanese anime series features voice performances by Chikahiro Kobayashi as Tetsuo Tanba and Megumi Han as Misaki Kurogane, alongside a supporting cast that includes Susumu Chiba, Kikuko Inoue, and Satoshi Hino. Based on a manga by Hideaki Sorachi, だんでらいおん consists of 7 episodes, each running around 30 minutes.
Dandelion Review
Netflix anime series Dandelion is quite peculiar in its concept. The story is set in the Sendoff Department of the Japanese Angel Federation, where two angel characters called Tetsuo Tanba and Misaki Kurogane, work to assist lost human souls to go to heaven and attain salvation from their earthly existences. Unlike the common stereotype, angels in this story are not depicted in such a way that they are calm and omniscient creatures; rather, they behave similarly to regular workers in a bureaucratic firm. However, unlike other workers, Tetsuo and Misaki do not work quickly but prefer to understand the inner conflicts of each soul first.
At first glance, Netflix’s Dandelion appears to be an anime that relies on its “case of the week” setup; however, this is just the superficial level. Underneath it all is a story filled with compassion and sympathy for its characters. This anime isn’t about action and special effects; it is about closure, remorse, and the bonds that tie humans together even after their deaths. Emotions play a huge role in the story, and many episodes can be surprisingly emotional at times.
One of the best things about the relationship between Tetsuo and Misaki is the connection itself. The two characters are a unique pair, both in terms of their personalities and the aura they possess. Tetsuo seems to be a rough, somewhat distant, and sometimes indifferent character, whereas Misaki, even though she is not so tall, carries herself with dignity and passion. This is what makes their combination compelling to watch because their relationship is not only funny and a little bit chaotic but also emotionally consistent.
What is quite intriguing about the Japanese series Dandelion is the way in which it defies the common understanding of angels. In this anime, angels are not perfect, heavenly creatures; they can feel pain and even get irritated. Moreover, when required, they can use force and weaponry against their enemies. The angels are portrayed as people who can experience certain emotions, making their actions more believable and relatable for viewers. Finally, one may say that sometimes the angels’ organisation behaves like a mafia-style company.
Nevertheless, the humour of the series is somewhat inconsistent. A large portion of it is based on over-the-top, anime-styled responses, as well as ridiculousness in situations that occur throughout the series. On some occasions, it succeeds brilliantly, providing a good laugh that contrasts perfectly with all the heavy issues. However, sometimes it becomes forced and too dependent on clichés. Nevertheless, its presence does not spoil the entire work; it merely varies in quality.
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In terms of visual design, the Dandelion anime takes a step back from the usual modern style of animation. It is classic in its approach, featuring clear and crisp artwork, and not too much effort is made to dazzle viewers with unnecessary elements. Even if the show does not have an outstanding visual design for anime, it fits the overall mood of the series quite well.
There are certain downsides to the show as well. The tempo is sometimes inconsistent, especially in those episodes where it takes a while for the payoff to happen. Furthermore, there is an instance when the writing becomes too heavy-handed when it comes to exposition. Rather than giving the viewer enough leeway to figure out some things on their own, everything is spelt out for them.
Netflix Dandelion Review: Summing Up
Despite its flaws, such as inconsistent pacing and sometimes unnecessary explanations, the 2026 anime series Dandelion is, nevertheless, an excellent anime. What is special about it? Primarily, its focus on characters and stories, which will definitely move one to tears without too much effort. With its unique approach to storytelling, the series has some rather unique characteristics, including an unusual tone and angels portrayed in a unique manner. What else is worth noting? It is an episodic anime that provides the viewers with various stories, all of them touching and heartbreaking enough. Therefore, even though the anime does not have any spectacular plot twists or unexpected revelations, it still makes one think and feel.
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