The anime world kicked off 2025 with a spectacular lineup, featuring the much-anticipated continuation of "Pharmacist's Monologue" and the sequel to the beloved isekai "Solo Leveling." Among these, the new 11-episode action series "Sakamoto Days" has quickly risen to the top of Netflix Japan's charts, captivating audiences with its unique blend of action and humor.
Why "Sakamoto Days" is a Must-Watch Anime
"Sakamoto Days" is an exceptional anime that has quickly garnered a dedicated following. Let's explore the reasons behind its success.
The Story of Taro Sakamoto
The series is an adaptation of Yuto Suzuki's manga, which debuted in 2020 and swiftly gained popularity. The protagonist, Taro Sakamoto, was once a legendary assassin within Japan's assassins' association, feared by criminals and admired by his peers. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he fell in love with a cheerful cashier at a local grocery store. Choosing happiness over his deadly career, Sakamoto retired, married, became a father, and embraced a peaceful life running a small shop.
The narrative takes a thrilling turn when his former partner-in-crime, Shin, reappears, tasked with eliminating Sakamoto on their boss's orders. Now, the retired assassin must protect his new family from his past life. The series excels in its absurd yet entertaining battles, where Sakamoto uses everyday items like chewing gum and ladles to fend off attackers.
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Spectacular Fight Scenes
The animation, handled by TMS Entertainment, is top-notch, adhering to the best shonen traditions. The fight scenes are a highlight, with dynamic movement and fluid motion that captivate viewers. Sakamoto's use of everyday objects in combat, like chopsticks to catch bullets and spatulas to block attacks, showcases his ingenuity and adds a layer of humor to the action.
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Contrasts Form the Foundation of the Narrative
The series is rich in contrasts, from character portrayals to storylines and overall tone. Sakamoto, a principled family man with a dark past, helps neighbors with household chores and fears divorce more than any assassin. His adversaries are complex, with rich backstories and empathy, challenging the stereotype of the typical mercenary. This blend of action and humor, alongside the moral message that "killing is bad," dominates the first four episodes, creating a balanced narrative that resonates with viewers.
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Top-Notch Animation
TMS Entertainment's work on "Sakamoto Days" is visually stunning. The animation excels in fight scenes, with shadow contrasts and fluid motion that enhance the dynamic action. Sakamoto's grace and Shin's classic Hollywood-style maneuvers are brought to life with impressive detail.
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Killing is Bad: A Dominant Theme
The series strikes a balance between action and family comedy, focusing on uplifting moments with a diverse cast. The fights are not just spectacles but reveal character depth and enhance interpersonal dynamics. "Sakamoto Days" is a delightful blend of humor, well-choreographed battles, and a lighthearted approach, resonating with a moral message that appeals to all.
Similar Anime to Watch While Waiting for More "Sakamoto Days"
Spy x Family
Superagent Lloyd Forger creates a fake family to get closer to his target, recruiting Yor, a city hall worker who is secretly an assassin, and Anya, a mind-reading girl. The family atmosphere mixed with comedy and action mirrors "Sakamoto Days," with Lloyd and Sakamoto both being seasoned professionals balancing danger and domestic life.
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Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband
Former yakuza Tatsu becomes a househusband, facing everyday tasks with the same intensity as his past life. The humor and absurdity of his new life echo the comedic elements found in "Sakamoto Days."
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The Fable
Hitman Akira Sato, known as The Fable, is forced to live as a law-abiding citizen for a year. The premise of a retired assassin navigating a normal life, albeit darker in tone, shares similarities with Sakamoto's journey.
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Hinamatsuri
Yakuza member Nitta takes in Hina, a girl with telekinetic powers, and balances his criminal life with newfound fatherhood. The mix of action, humor, and family dynamics parallels the themes in "Sakamoto Days."
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Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
Former mercenary Himura Kenshin seeks redemption in the Meiji era, balancing action with domestic scenes. The series can be seen as a historical counterpart to "Sakamoto Days," with both protagonists striving for peaceful lives while confronting their pasts.
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Assassination Classroom
An alien teacher challenges his students to kill him before he destroys Earth, blending action with humor and character development. The series plays with contrasts in a way similar to "Sakamoto Days."
Image: ensigame.com
Buddy Daddies
Hitmen Kazuki and Rei must balance their dangerous jobs with raising a young girl, mirroring Sakamoto's challenges in balancing family life with his past.
Image: ensigame.com
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