If you’re looking for your next anime to binge, Netflix’s Dandelion just might be the one to watch. This seven-episode comedy is based on a 2002 one-shot manga written by Gintama creator Hideaki Sorachi, expanding on the original characters and their wacky world. Dandelion follows two underperforming angels as they put spirits to rest while their department undergoes newfound scrutiny and changes. It’ll make you laugh, and maybe even shed a tear. Keep reading for our full review of Netflix’s Dandelion.
DANDELION: STREAM IT OR SKIP IT?
Opening Shot: A man bikes frantically to chase an old guy through the streets of Tokyo, commanding the stubborn elder to pass on already. Via voiceover, the biker introduces himself as Tetsuo Tanba, an angel working to help souls pass on to the afterlife.
The Gist: Out of all the groups in the Japanese Angel Federation’s Send-Off Department, the Dandelion Squad is the absolute worst in terms of numbers. Led by an innocent-looking yet rambunctious purple-haired little girl named Misaki Kurogane (Risa Mei), the struggling squad’s only other angel is the lazy and brusque Tetsuo Tanba (Kaiji Tang). Despite the two angels’ big personalities and seeming dysfunction, they have tender hearts and empathy for humans that some other angels seem to lack, prioritizing helping troubled spirits settle their unfinished business even if it means underperforming in the eyes of their department’s Chief (Sean Burgos).
After Tetsuo and Misaki spend an entire day running around Tokyo to help a deceased old man (Frank Todaro) make amends to his wife (Michelle Ruff) before passing on, they return to their HQ in the Netherworld to a rude awakening. On behalf of the concerned Board of Directors, Councillor of the Japanese Angel Federation Yuichi Kyoga (John Choi) reprimands the entire Send-Off Department for allowing the number of earthbound spirits and vengeful entities to skyrocket over the last several decades.
In order to preserve balance with the living and the dead, the Board will implement a strict quota for all Send-Off angels, and those who fail to meet it will not get paid. While all of the other squads quickly bend the knee, Tetsuo protests and doesn’t want to give up helping spirits simply for the sake of hitting numbers and appeasing the Board. Naturally, this is likely to be a major point of friction going forward, especially with the powerful Kyoga family seemingly pulling the strings to crush Tetsuo and Misaki, perhaps in an act of revenge? You’ll just have to keep watching to find out more!
What Shows Will It Remind You Of? Since they share a creator, Dandelion will definitely remind viewers of Gintama. This Netflix Original title may recall aspects of additional anime like The Disastrous Life of Saiki K, Golden Kamuy, and Natsume’s Book of Friends.
Our Take: Dandelion is immediately entertaining, absurd, and watchable, with a quick-paced story that will keep you invested and tearing through all seven episodes available now. Perhaps because the original one-shot was published in 2002, the show has a nostalgic feel that’s comforting, all while the goofy humor throughout feels fairly timeless. The art, animation, and character design also feel almost like a throwback at times while still remaining fluid and appealing to the modern viewer’s eye.
Both the English dub and original Japanese language casts deliver varied, compelling, and committed performances that breathe life into the interesting cast of characters. Tetsuo and Misaki, in particular, are entertaining protagonists whose seeming opposites make them a compelling underdog team you want to root for. Additionally, despite Dandelion‘s generally unserious tone, there are several moments of genuine tenderness or introspection that offer enough balance and depth to make this a worthwhile and unique viewing experience overall, especially for fans of comedy anime like Gintama.
Performance Worth Watching: Tetsuo Tanba (Kaiji Tang) immediately makes an impression as our abrasive, easily bothered, and surprisingly compassionate protagonist. I’m excited to see why he has earned the moniker of “Mad Dog” and how he’ll react with his back against the wall at work going forward.
Sex And Skin: None in the pilot, but at the very least, you should expect some suggestive humor in episodes to come.
Parting Shot: An unknown member of the Kyoga family assures his older brother that everything is in place to bring “them” all down, just as their Father ordered. Ominous!
Sleeper Star: Little rascal Misaki Kurogane (Risa Mei) is so unexpectedly violent and delightfully chaotic. I’m dying to know what her deal is because there definitely seems to be layers to her, but she already is quite the scene stealer as it is.
Most Pilot-y Line: In his own gruff way, Tetsuo offers some cheesy yet sweet advice to a struggling spirit:
“It’s not too late because there’s something you can do right now. So stop whining and do it. Because the only time to take action is now, and the only place to do it is here. It’s pointless trying to dwell on the past or depend on the future. It’s just a waste of time. Doing that will only make you miss the present. There has to be something only you can do. This is your last chance, so don’t blow it.”
Our Call: Whether you’re a big Gintama fan or a lover of absurd comedy, Dandelion has the worldbuilding, compelling characters, hilarity, and heart to leave a positive impression. Enjoy some easy, entertaining viewing and STREAM IT!
Maddy Casale is a Chicago-based writer and comedian who covers everything from animated series to Hallmark movies. Follow her on Duolingo @MCasale.