Paru Itagaki's 'SANDA' Anime Delivers a Wildly Original Take on Santa in Electrifying Debut

The highly anticipated 2025 anime adaptation of Paru Itagaki's distinct vision, "SANDA," has made an unforgettable entrance with its initial three episodes, courtesy of the renowned animation studio Science SARU. This groundbreaking series masterfully intertwines surreal comedy with intense, dark action, presenting a narrative unlike any other. At its heart is Kazushige Sanda, an ordinary middle schooler grappling with an extraordinary affliction: he inexplicably transforms into Santa Claus whenever he dons red attire. This bizarre curse plunges him into a world where the cherished traditions of Christmas are fading from the consciousness of the younger generation.

The premiere episode meticulously constructs the central enigma, drawing viewers into Sanda's reluctant journey. He finds himself compelled to assist his classmate, Shiori Fuyumura, who possesses the unique ability to temporarily lift his curse. Their shared objective? To locate a mysteriously vanished friend named Ono. Through this initial quest, the series skillfully portrays Sanda’s internal conflict regarding his newfound identity and the profound responsibility of safeguarding children. The narrative artfully combines incisive societal commentary with the whimsical yet strict rules of the folklore that govern his very "Santa DNA."

As the series progresses, episodes two and three intensify the stakes, propelling Sanda into perilous situations. A gripping bomb threat within a school science lab not only tests the limits of his burgeoning, albeit hesitant, powers but also challenges his deeply ingrained moral code. The tension further escalates with the introduction of Amaya, Sanda's manipulative roommate, whose presence injects a potent dose of psychological intrigue and dark humor into the unfolding drama.

Visually, "SANDA" is a triumph of inventive animation. Science SARU employs a dynamic array of techniques, including chaotic paneling, dramatic Dutch angles, and a vibrant, often shifting, color palette. These artistic choices powerfully amplify the emotional intensity and seamlessly navigate the series' rapid tonal transitions, from moments of slapstick comedy to periods of profound suspense and drama. The studio’s signature fluid animation breathes life into Itagaki’s expressive, minimalist art style, achieving a delicate balance between the grotesque and the whimsical elements that define the show's unique aesthetic. The English dub, while receiving a range of responses, has generally garnered favorable reviews, particularly for its energetic vocal performances that adeptly capture Sanda’s complex and unusual character.

Beyond its fantastical premise, "SANDA" delves into profound thematic explorations of Japan’s contemporary cultural concerns. It thoughtfully examines societal perspectives on childhood, the transition to adulthood, and the pervasive economic anxieties prevalent in modern society. All these weighty themes are cleverly woven into a wild, offbeat narrative that positions a middle school boy as the reluctant inheritor of Santa Claus's legendary mantle.

These initial episodes collectively serve as a powerful invitation, successfully captivating audiences with their sheer originality and laying a robust foundation for the compelling developments yet to unfold in this truly one-of-a-kind, holiday-infused anime saga.