The critically acclaimed manga series SANDA, from BEASTARS creator Paru Itagaki, has made its highly anticipated leap to the screen with an anime adaptation that premiered in October 2025. This unique narrative, set in a future Japan grappling with a declining birth rate, introduces Kazushige Sanda, a seemingly ordinary middle school student who harbors an extraordinary secret: he is a descendant of Santa Claus. Tasked by his classmate Shiori Fuyumura with finding their missing friend, Ichie Ono, Sanda’s journey intertwines the whimsical legend of Santa with pressing societal issues and personal growth.
As the anime adaptation progresses, fans eagerly follow Sanda’s adventures and transformations. Episode 10, in particular, delivers significant plot developments and character interactions that continue to shape the series’ compelling narrative.
The Core Conflict and Character Dynamics in SANDA
The world of SANDA is a near-future Japan where children are highly valued due to a rapidly declining birth rate, leading to tightly regulated lives and a societal reverence for youth. Amidst this backdrop, the concept of Christmas and Santa Claus has faded into legend. Kazushige Sanda, an extroverted student, is propelled into his destiny when his body’s seal is broken by Shiori Fuyumura, allowing him to transform into a muscular, bearded Santa figure whenever he wears red. This transformation not only grants him immense strength and healing abilities but also shifts his perception, offering an adult’s viewpoint on the world. Their quest is to locate Ichie Ono, a missing classmate who still believes in Christmas, and in doing so, revive a forgotten sense of wonder.
A Closer Look at SANDA Episode 10
Episode 10 of the SANDA anime delves deeper into the complex relationships and escalating conflicts that define the series. The episode sees significant interaction between Sanda, his allies, and emerging threats.
Yagiuda’s Loyalty and Sacrifice
A central thread in Episode 10 involves Yagiuda, who continues to demonstrate his unwavering loyalty to Sanda and Amaya. In a critical moment, Yagiuda makes the decision to confront Namatame, effectively acting as a decoy to allow Sanda some crucial alone time with Niko. This act of bravery, however, comes at a cost, as Yagiuda sustains a gunshot wound to the arm. His actions highlight the bonds forming within Sanda’s circle and the dangers they face.
Sanda’s Awakening and New Powers
Following Yagiuda’s sacrifice, the emergence of Black Santa marks a pivotal moment. Black Santa not only saves Yagiuda but also provides comfort to the children from Class 10, embracing them to sleep before turning his attention to confront Namatame. This scene likely signifies Sanda’s continued evolution and the deepening of his Santa powers, hinting at the moral complexities and responsibilities that come with his dual identity. Sanda’s character grapples with balancing his adolescent life and his role as Santa, often seeing others, like Fuyumura, through a childlike lens when transformed.
Romantic and Emotional Developments
Episode 10 also explores the burgeoning emotional landscape of the characters. Sanda experiences his first kiss, stolen by Niko, which is portrayed with a mix of surprise and a hint of mutual enjoyment. This interaction adds a layer of personal development for Sanda, who also wrestles with a crush on Fuyumura.
Concurrently, the “date” between Fuyumura and Ono faces an interruption. Ono keenly observes Fuyumura’s distraction and concern for someone else. Upon hearing a gunshot, Ono urges Fuyumura to leave, suggesting a growing awareness of the dangers surrounding them and potentially hinting at future conflicts or shifts in their relationship. Ono’s reaction at the episode’s conclusion suggests a potential shift towards becoming an antagonist, adding further intrigue to the overarching plot.
Looking Ahead
Episode 10 leaves viewers with several questions about the characters’ fates and the trajectory of the narrative. Yagiuda’s injury, the awakening of Black Santa, and the evolving dynamics between Sanda, Niko, Fuyumura, and Ono all set the stage for intense developments. As the SANDA anime continues, fans can anticipate further exploration of its unique themes, intricate character development, and the ongoing quest to understand the true meaning of Christmas in a future that has seemingly forgotten its magic.
