For anime enthusiasts, 2025 kicked off with a spectacular lineup, including the highly anticipated continuation of the historical detective series "Pharmacist's Monologue" and the sequel to the beloved isekai "Solo Leveling." However, one title that has quickly risen to prominence is the brand-new 11-episode action series "Sakamoto Days," which has already claimed the top spot on Netflix Japan's charts. This anime truly stands out as an excellent watch, and let's delve into the reasons why!
Why Sakamoto Days is a Must-Watch Anime
"Sakamoto Days" is an adaptation of Yuto Suzuki's manga, which began in 2020 and rapidly garnered a large following due to its unique blend of action and humor. The series follows Taro Sakamoto, a legendary assassin who was once the pride of Japan’s assassins’ association. Known as a nightmare for criminals and an idol among his peers, Sakamoto's life took an unexpected turn when he fell in love with a cheerful cashier at a local grocery store. Choosing happiness over his deadly profession, he retired, got married, became a father, and settled into a peaceful existence running a small shop.
However, his past catches up when his former partner-in-crime and protégé, Shin, arrives on a mission to eliminate him, acting on orders from their old boss. The narrative explores the tension of Sakamoto's new life as a family man juxtaposed against his old life as an assassin, as he must protect his wife and daughter from his past.
One of the most entertaining aspects of "Sakamoto Days" is its absurd yet thrilling battles. Taro Sakamoto catches bullets with chewing gum and defends himself using everyday items like ladles, showcasing his quick thinking and reflexes. The series doesn't take itself too seriously, blending action with comedy, making it a delightful watch for those who can embrace Sakamoto's near-invulnerability with a sense of humor.
Image: ensigame.com
Contrasts Form the Foundation of the Narrative
The series thrives on contrasts, which are evident in character portrayals, storylines, and the overall tone. Sakamoto is depicted as a principled family man with a dark history, helping neighbors with chores and fearing divorce more than any assassin. His adversaries are equally complex, with rich backstories and moments of empathy, breaking the stereotype of bloodthirsty mercenaries. The narrative plays with the idea that something deadly can turn harmless, and vice versa, adding depth and unpredictability to the plot.
Image: ensigame.com
Top-Notch Animation in Sakamoto Days
Produced by TMS Entertainment, known for works like "Dr. Stone" and "Detective Conan," the animation in "Sakamoto Days" adheres to the best shonen traditions. The fight scenes are particularly impressive, with shadow contrasts and fluid motion that effectively convey dynamic action through smooth transitions and smart pacing. Sakamoto moves with the grace of a seasoned fighter, while Shin's maneuvers echo classic Hollywood action heroes.
Killing is Bad: This Message Dominates the First Four Episodes
The series balances its screen time between family comedy and criminal intrigue. The first four episodes emphasize the message that killing is bad, focusing on uplifting family moments with a diverse cast of characters. The action scenes are not just spectacles; they reveal character depth and enhance interpersonal dynamics, making "Sakamoto Days" a compelling blend of humor, well-choreographed battles, and a lighthearted scripting approach.
Image: ensigame.com
While the Series is Still Ongoing, We’d Like to Suggest Some Cool Stuff to Hang On
Spy x Family
Produced by Wit Studio and CloverWorks, "Spy x Family" follows superagent Lloyd Forger as he creates a fake family to get closer to his target. He recruits Yor, a seemingly modest city hall worker who is actually an assassin, and Anya, a mind-reading little girl, as his daughter. The series shares a family atmosphere mixed with comedy and action, with Lloyd and Sakamoto both being seasoned professionals who remain calm under pressure and perform the impossible.
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Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband
From J.C. Staff, "Gokushufudou" features Tatsu, a former legendary yakuza who retires to become a househusband. His daily life is filled with humor and absurdity as he battles supermarket sales and household chores. The series echoes the humor and absurdity found in "Sakamoto Days," with a protagonist who sees everyday tasks as battles.
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The Fable
Tezuka Productions brings us "The Fable," about Akira Sato, a notorious hitman forced to live as a law-abiding citizen for a year. The premise and setting are similar to "Sakamoto Days," though "The Fable" offers a darker tone and more exploration of complex themes.
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Hinamatsuri
Feel's "Hinamatsuri" follows Nitta, a yakuza member who takes in Hina, a girl with telekinetic powers. Like Sakamoto, Nitta balances his dangerous past with domestic responsibilities, making it a relatable watch for fans of "Sakamoto Days."
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Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
Produced by Gallop and Studio Deen, "Rurouni Kenshin" follows Himura Kenshin, a former mercenary seeking redemption during the Meiji era. The series can be seen as a modern-day counterpart to "Sakamoto Days," with both protagonists leaving their violent pasts behind to live ordinary lives and defend the weak.
Image: ensigame.com
Assassination Classroom
From Lerche, "Assassination Classroom" features an alien who takes a job as a teacher and promises to destroy Earth unless his students can kill him within a year. The series plays with contrasts, much like "Sakamoto Days," challenging stereotypes and expectations.
Image: ensigame.com
Buddy Daddies
P.A. Works' "Buddy Daddies" follows hitmen Kazuki and Rei as they navigate freelance assassinations and unexpected parental duties after a young girl enters their lives. The series mirrors the challenges faced by Sakamoto as he balances his dangerous past with family life.
Image: ensigame.com
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