Sakamoto Days: A Hilarious Blend of Action and Family Life
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 rose to the top: Sakamoto Days, an 11-episode action-comedy currently dominating Netflix Japan. This article explores why it's such a captivating watch.
Sakamoto, a retired hitman, traded assassinations for a life running a small grocery store with his wife and daughter. His peaceful existence is shattered when Shin, his former protégé, arrives with orders to eliminate him. The premise—a reformed killer forced back into the deadly game—is simple, yet the execution is brilliant.
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The series, adapted from Yuto Suzuki's popular manga, shines in its over-the-top action sequences. Sakamoto's combat style is unique; he eschews weapons, utilizing everyday objects with incredible skill and reflexes. Chopsticks become bullet catchers, chewing gum deflects deadly projectiles, and spatulas become surprisingly effective weapons.
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The humor stems from the stark contrast between Sakamoto's seemingly invincible abilities and his ordinary, even somewhat clumsy, demeanor. This juxtaposition is a core element of the show's appeal. The series doesn't take itself too seriously, embracing the absurdity of its premise.
Contrasting Elements Drive the Narrative
The show masterfully contrasts characters and storylines. Sakamoto, a loving family man with a lethal past, balances household chores with thwarting assassination attempts. His adversaries, while dangerous, are often complex individuals with compelling backstories, challenging the typical mercenary archetype. This constant interplay of deadly and mundane, heroic and flawed, keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.
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Top-Tier Animation
Produced by TMS Entertainment (known for Dr. Stone and Detective Conan), Sakamoto Days boasts stunning animation, particularly in its action sequences. Fluid movements, dynamic camera angles, and striking visual effects elevate the already compelling fight scenes.
A Moral Core
The first four episodes emphasize a strong anti-violence message, balancing intense action with heartwarming family moments. The fights aren't mere spectacle; they serve to develop characters and relationships.
Similar Anime Recommendations
While Sakamoto Days stands on its own, several anime share its unique blend of action, comedy, and family themes:
Spy x Family
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Studios: Wit Studio, CloverWorks
A spy, an assassin, and a telepath form a fake family, mirroring Sakamoto Days' blend of action and family dynamics.
Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband
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Studio: J.C. Staff
A retired yakuza embracing domestic life, sharing the humorous absurdity of Sakamoto Days.
The Fable
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Studio: Tezuka Productions
A hitman forced to live a normal life, offering a darker, more dramatic counterpart to Sakamoto Days.
Hinamatsuri
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Studio: Feel
A yakuza raising a girl with telekinetic powers, echoing the theme of balancing a dangerous past with family responsibilities.
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
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Studios: Gallop, Studio Deen
A former mercenary seeking redemption, sharing Sakamoto Days' themes of leaving a violent past behind.
Assassination Classroom
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Studio: Lerche
An alien teacher and his students challenge expectations, mirroring Sakamoto Days' use of contrasting elements.
Buddy Daddies
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Studio: P.A. Works
Two hitmen unexpectedly become parents, reflecting Sakamoto Days' exploration of balancing crime and family life.
Sakamoto Days is a refreshing take on the action genre, seamlessly blending thrilling fight sequences with heartwarming family comedy. Its unique characters, stunning animation, and surprising twists make it a must-watch for anime fans.
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