For anime enthusiasts, 2025 kicked off with a spectacular lineup, including the eagerly awaited continuation of the historical detective series "Pharmacist's Monologue" and the sequel to the beloved isekai "Solo Leveling." Yet, it's the brand-new 11-episode action series "Sakamoto Days" that has truly captured the spotlight, soaring to the top of Netflix Japan's charts.
Why Sakamoto Days Stands Out
"Sakamoto Days" is an adaptation of Yuto Suzuki's manga, which started in 2020 and quickly amassed a significant following due to its unique blend of action and humor. The story revolves around Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary assassin feared by criminals and revered by his peers within Japan's assassins' association. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he fell deeply in love with a cheerful cashier at a local grocery store. Choosing love over his deadly profession, Sakamoto retired, married, and became a father, settling into a peaceful life running a small shop.
The tranquility of his new life is shattered when Shin, his former partner and protégé, reappears, acting on orders from their boss to eliminate Taro. The narrative then unfolds with Sakamoto defending his newfound family from his past life's dangers. The series is renowned for its absurd yet captivating battles where Sakamoto employs everyday items in ingenious ways to catch bullets with chewing gum and fend off attackers with a ladle.
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Spectacular Fight Scenes
The standout feature of "Sakamoto Days" is its spectacular fight scenes, brought to life by TMS Entertainment, known for their work on "Dr. Stone" and "Detective Conan." These scenes showcase Sakamoto's remarkable ability to use everyday objects like chopsticks, pens, spatulas, and ladles as weapons, all while dodging lethal strikes with superhuman speed.
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A Blend of Action and Comedy
While the series boasts intense action, it also doesn't take itself too seriously, embracing its comedic elements. Sakamoto's near-invulnerability is played for laughs, creating a humorous contrast with his ordinary physique. This mix of action and comedy is what makes "Sakamoto Days" so enjoyable to watch.
Contrasts in the Narrative
The narrative of "Sakamoto Days" thrives on contrasts. Sakamoto, a principled family man with a dark past, navigates his new life with the same dedication he once gave to his assassin career. He helps neighbors, fears divorce more than death, and even employs his former enemies at his store. The series delves into the complexities of its characters, showing that even the most hardened killers can have empathy and change their ways.
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Top-notch Animation
The animation quality in "Sakamoto Days" is top-notch, adhering to the best shonen traditions. The fight scenes are particularly well-executed, with fluid motion and smart pacing that highlight Sakamoto's graceful combat style and Shin's dynamic maneuvers.
A Message Against Killing
The first four episodes of "Sakamoto Days" emphasize a strong message against killing. Half the screen time is dedicated to uplifting family comedy, while the other half explores criminal intrigue and action. The fights serve not just as spectacle but as a means to reveal character depth and enhance interpersonal dynamics.
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Similar Anime to Watch While Waiting for More Sakamoto Days
Spy x Family
Studios: Wit Studio, CloverWorks
In "Spy x Family," superagent Lloyd Forger takes on a mission to create a fake family to get closer to his target. He recruits Yor, a seemingly ordinary city hall worker who is secretly an assassin, and Anya, a telepathic little girl, as his daughter. The series blends family life with espionage and action, much like "Sakamoto Days," with both protagonists showcasing similar levels of professionalism and calm under pressure.
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Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband
Studio: J.C. Staff
"Gokushufudou" follows Tatsu, a former yakuza known as the Immortal Dragon, who retires to become a househusband. His daily life is filled with humor and absurdity, much like Sakamoto's, as he navigates domestic challenges with the same intensity he once brought to his criminal activities.
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The Fable
Studio: Tezuka Productions
In "The Fable," Akira Sato, a notorious hitman, is forced to live as a law-abiding citizen for a year. Like Sakamoto, he struggles to adapt to normal life, though "The Fable" takes a darker tone, offering a deeper exploration of complex themes.
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Hinamatsuri
Studio: Feel
"Hinamatsuri" features Nitta, a yakuza member who adopts Hina, a girl with telekinetic powers, after finding her in a giant iron egg. Similar to Sakamoto, Nitta balances his dangerous past with domestic responsibilities, making for a humorous and heartwarming story.
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Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
Studios: Gallop, Studio Deen
Set in the Meiji era, "Rurouni Kenshin" follows Himura Kenshin, a former mercenary seeking redemption. Like Sakamoto, Kenshin left his violent past behind to help those in need, blending intense action with light-hearted domestic scenes.
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Assassination Classroom
Studio: Lerche
In "Assassination Classroom," an alien named Koro-sensei takes a job as a teacher for a class of misfits, promising to destroy Earth if they fail to kill him within a year. The series plays with contrasts and challenges stereotypes, much like "Sakamoto Days."
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Buddy Daddies
Studio: P.A. Works
"Buddy Daddies" follows hitmen Kazuki and Rei as they navigate life with the energetic girl Miri, balancing their assassin work with parenting. Their struggle to lead normal lives while dealing with their past mirrors Sakamoto's journey.
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