Sakamoto: Action and Absurdity Converge

Sakamoto Days: A Hilarious Blend of Action and Domesticity

2025 kicked off with a bang for anime fans, delivering sequels to beloved series like Pharmacist's Monologue and Solo Leveling. But one newcomer quickly ascended the Netflix Japan charts: the electrifying 11-episode action-comedy, Sakamoto Days. This review explores why it's a must-watch.

Sakamoto, a retired hitman, traded assassinations for aprons, embracing a peaceful life with his wife and daughter. His seemingly mundane existence is shattered by the reappearance of Shin, his former protégé, sent to eliminate him. The premise? You can't simply quit being a killer.

Based on Yuto Suzuki's popular manga, Sakamoto Days masterfully blends over-the-top action with laugh-out-loud humor. Sakamoto's combat style is uniquely absurd: he deflects bullets with chewing gum, fights with kitchen utensils, and possesses superhuman reflexes.

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Spectacular Fight Choreography and Visuals:

TMS Entertainment, the studio behind Dr. Stone and Detective Conan, delivers stunning animation. Fight scenes are dynamic and visually arresting, showcasing smooth transitions and creative use of shadow and light. Sakamoto's movements are fluid and graceful, contrasting with his seemingly ordinary physique.

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Contrasting Themes and Character Development:

The series thrives on contrasts. Sakamoto, a principled family man with a deadly past, balances household chores with thwarting assassinations. His adversaries are complex, possessing rich backstories and surprising depths, challenging the typical mercenary trope. The show masterfully subverts expectations, blurring the lines between harmless and deadly.

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A Moral Compass and Unexpected Humor:

The first four episodes emphasize the anti-violence message, balancing intense action sequences with heartwarming family moments. The humor stems from the juxtaposition of Sakamoto's overwhelming power and his ordinary life. The series doesn't shy away from poking fun at its protagonist's near-invulnerability.

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Similar Anime Recommendations:

If you enjoyed Sakamoto Days, consider these:

• Spy x Family: A spy, an assassin, and a telepathic child form a fake family, blending action, comedy, and heartwarming family dynamics. (Studios: Wit Studio, CloverWorks) Image: ensigame.com

• Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband: A retired yakuza embraces domestic life, finding humor in the mundane. (Studio: J.C. Staff) Image: ensigame.com

• The Fable: A hitman must live a normal life for a year, leading to unexpected consequences. (Studio: Tezuka Productions) Image: ensigame.com

• Hinamatsuri: A yakuza member takes in a girl with telekinetic powers, creating a unique family dynamic. (Studio: Feel) Image: ensigame.com

• Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan: A former mercenary seeks redemption, balancing action and lighthearted moments. (Studios: Gallop, Studio Deen) Image: ensigame.com

• Assassination Classroom: A powerful alien becomes a teacher, challenging his students to assassinate him. (Studio: Lerche) Image: ensigame.com

• Buddy Daddies: Two assassins unexpectedly become parents, juggling their dangerous profession with childcare. (Studio: P.A. Works) Image: ensigame.com

Sakamoto Days is a refreshing and highly entertaining anime. Its unique blend of action, comedy, and surprisingly heartwarming moments makes it a standout series. The fast pace and strong source material suggest a bright future for this captivating show.