Dandadan: Real-Life Analogues of Every Alien Explained

Overview

Serpo Aliens in Dandadan take cues from Ufology and Ultraman, with costumes reminiscent of a former Thai prime minister.
Flatwoods Monster draws on a real-life cryptid, depicted with exaggerated features resembling a sumo wrestler.
Nessie is inspired by the Loch Ness Monster and influenced by Shin Godzilla, showcasing destructive water beam powers.

Dandadan seamlessly weaves elements of fantasy, horror, and science fiction, crafting a compelling narrative of spirits battling extraterrestrial beings. While the show’s unique take on bizarre aliens showcases a rich imagination, many of these characters find their roots in real-world mythology and urban legends.

Indeed, the extraterrestrial entities featured in Dandadan frequently mirror existing folklore, literary fiction, and cinematic creations. This article dives into eight of the most fascinating alien inspirations behind the series, spotlighting their peculiar ties to real-world counterparts.

8 Creepy Alien

Inspiration from Ufology and Popular Culture

The Serpo's human costume, cover of the Project Serpo movie, the Serpo's real appearance and the Dada from Ultraman.

First Appearance: Chapter 1 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)

The Serpo Aliens stand out as some of the most memorable antagonists within the Dandadan universe. Their unsettling presence marks the beginning of the narrative and plays a pivotal role in the evolution of main character Momo Ayase’s psychic abilities. Interestingly, their design and backstory draw heavily from real-world references.

The term Serpo originates from a well-known theory in Ufology, suggesting a collaboration between the U.S. government and an alien civilization of the same name. Additionally, their alien form exhibits striking similarities to Dada, a notorious foe from the Ultraman series. Perhaps the most peculiar aspect is the design of their human-like costumes, which closely resemble Thaksin Shinawatra, a notable former Thai prime minister. This quirky resemblance has even sparked a meme phenomenon in Thailand.

7 Flatwoods Monster

Inspired by the Flatwoods Monster Cryptid

The Flatwoods Monster in Dandadan and a real-life statue & chair of the Flatwoods Monster.

First Appearance: Chapter 2 (Manga), Episode 2 (Anime)

The Flatwoods Monster, first sighted in Flatwoods, West Virginia in 1952, boasts a distinctive collar resembling an ace of spades. Although initially reported as human-sized, Dandadan amplifies this creature’s stature, morphing it into a giant figure akin to a Japanese sumo wrestler, diverging sharply from its original portrayal.

6 Mr. Mantis Shrimp

Adapted from the Dover Demon Cryptid

Mr. Mantis Shrimp in Dandadan and a sketch of the Dover Demon.

First Appearance: Chapter 20 (Manga), Episode 8 (Anime)

Known for its loyalty, Mr. Mantis Shrimp is both an ally to the protagonists and a nod to the Dover Demon, a cryptid reported in Massachusetts in 1977. Characteristically, both entities share similar features, such as large heads and elongated limbs, but the rendition in Dandadan veers towards crustacean-inspired aesthetics, mirroring the Mantis Shrimp’s unique build.

5 Nessie

Inspired by the Loch Ness Monster and Shin Godzilla

Nessie firing its water beam, a photo of the Loch Ness monster and Shin Godzilla firing its atomic breath.

First Appearance: Chapter 19 (Manga), Episode 8 (Anime)

Nessie emerges during the Serpo Arc, capturing attention with its resemblance to the legendary Loch Ness Monster. While its origins are rooted in myth, Nessie functions within the narrative as an asset to the Serpo Aliens, equipped with advanced abilities, including powerful jets of water akin to the destructive capabilities of Shin Godzilla.

4 Bamora

Based on Tokusatsu Actress Rie Ota and Gomora from Ultraman

Bamora in her exosuit, Rie Ota with her Baragon suit and Gomora from Ultraman.

First Appearance: Chapter 63 (Manga)

Bamora is a compelling figure in Dandadan, depicted as the last descendant of the Sumerian race encased in a formidable kaiju exosuit. Her character design is influenced by Rie Ota, a renowned tokusatsu actress known for her dynamic performances. Notably, Bamora’s exosuit is reminiscent of Gomora, another iconic kaiju from the Ultraman series.

3 The Kur Race

Rooted in H.P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos

The real appearance of a Kur and an illustration of Cthulhu.

First Appearance: Chapter 72 (Manga)

The Kur Race serves as one of the formidable threats in Dandadan, depicted as a powerful coalition of space entities. Their grotesque octopus-like form echoes themes commonly associated with Cthulhu, the preeminent figure in H.P. Lovecraft’s narrative universe, further deepening the horror elements within the series.

2 Exosuits

Inspired by Ancient Japanese Figurines

Several Kur Exosuits alongside ancient clay figurines.

First Appearance: Chapter 63 (Manga)

The Kur Exosuits are integral to the Kur’s conquest strategy, showcasing a myriad of designs inspired by ancient figurines unearthed in Japan. Notable inspirations include the Shakōkidogū and Haniwa Terracotta Dancers, brilliantly melding historical artistry with science fiction.

1 Count Saint-Germain

Inspired by the Legendary Count of St. Germain

Count Saint-Germain in Dandadan and Saint Germain in Castlevania.

First Appearance: Chapter 120 (Manga)

Count Saint-Germain is a captivating character within the Dandadan series, portrayed as an enigmatic figure obsessed with collecting the paranormal. His persona appears to be a fusion of humanity and extraterrestrial existence, echoing the legendary stories surrounding the real Count of St. Germain, a historic alchemist often described as timeless. The intrigue surrounding his character draws parallels with other fictional portrayals, establishing his relevance in the tapestry of supernatural lore.

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