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Romantic tropes are a staple in anime and manga, often revolving around some age-old concept. Among them, one of the most overused tropes is the “oblivious male lead” who remains utterly unaware of the heroine’s feelings while she pines for him in secret.
This dynamic can grow tiresome, as it often reduces the female lead’s agency, turning her into a passive participant in her own love story. However,Dandadanhas been subverting this trope; creating their own distinct definition of romance.
However, this isn’t just a subversion of the typical Shonen romance dynamic. It’s a heartfelt exploration of mutual respect, emotional growth, and how love blossoms naturally between two people. In a world filled with UFOs, ghosts, and bizarre alien battles, the romance between Momo and Okarun feels grounded and incredibly real.
Momo’s journey throughDandadan: From rough edges to soft affection
Since the very beginning ofDandadan,Momo’s character archas been a demonstration of her emotional depth and resilience. Initially introduced as a no-nonsense, sharp-tongued high schooler, Momo’s rough exterior hid a surprisingly tender side that began to reveal itself in her interactions with Okarun. Her initial attitude toward him was one of irritation, but as their bond grew, so did her willingness to open up.
Yukinobu Tatsu: “I’m pushing the boundaries” in Dandadan in the One Area Almost Every Other Manga Has Failed At
What sets Momo apart is her active role in shaping their relationship inDandadan. She doesn’t wait passively for Okarun to “get a clue” Instead, she takes deliberate steps forward, conveying her feelings in ways both subtle and overt. For every tentative move Okarun makes, Momo responds with twice the effort, ensuring that their relationship evolves in a way that feels natural and balanced.
TheDandadanmanga has made it abundantly clear that Momo’s feelings for Okarun are genuine and unshakable. This is most evident in her interactions with other characters, particularly Zuma. While on paper, Zuma is everything a Shoujo heroine might dream of, Momo remains steadfast in her feelings for Okarun.
Why this matters: Killing some of the worst anime romance tropes
What makesMomo and Okarun’s relationshipinDandadanso refreshing is its balance. While Momo obviously falls first and harder, Okarun’s own feelings are equally genuine, creating a dynamic where both characters grow together. This mutual respect and effort stand in stark contrast to the trope of the oblivious male lead and the long-suffering heroine.
By giving Momo agency and allowing her to take the lead in their relationship,Dandadanflips the script on tired romantic cliches. It shows that love isn’t about one-sided pining or dramatic misunderstandings but about two people meeting each other halfway and building something meaningful together.
“It would have disrupted the flow in manga form”: The Smallest Change in Dandadan’s First Episode Gave It the Kickstart Even the Manga Couldn’t
With its vibrant characters, outrageous plotlines, and heartfelt moments,Yukinobu Tatsu‘sDandadancontinues to push the boundaries of what a Shonen series can be. Momo and Okarun’s relationship is a shining example of how romance should be written with depth, nuance, and mutual respect.
Dandadanis currently available to read on Viz Media and Crunchyroll, respectively.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :930
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
