Sakamoto Days is the perfect mix of action and absurdity

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. However, one newcomer quickly ascended to the top of Netflix Japan's charts: the explosive 11-episode action-comedy, Sakamoto Days. This review delves into why this fresh take on the assassin genre is so captivating.

Sakamoto, a retired hitman, traded his deadly profession for the quiet life of a family man and grocery store owner. His peaceful existence is shattered when Shin, his former protégé, arrives with orders to eliminate him. The premise alone—a domesticated assassin protecting his family—is inherently intriguing.

The series, adapted from Yuto Suzuki's popular manga, masterfully blends over-the-top action sequences with laugh-out-loud humor. Sakamoto's combat style is a unique highlight, utilizing everyday objects—chopsticks, chewing gum, even ladles—with incredible skill and superhuman reflexes to deflect bullets and disarm opponents.

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Spectacular Action and Unexpected Humor:

The animation, courtesy of TMS Entertainment (known for Dr. Stone and Detective Conan), is top-notch. Fight scenes are fluid and dynamic, showcasing Sakamoto's surprising agility and Shin's classic action hero moves. The humor stems from the stark contrast between Sakamoto's seemingly invincible abilities and his ordinary, even slightly clumsy, demeanor. The series embraces this absurdity, never taking itself too seriously.

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Contrasting Characters and Themes:

The narrative thrives on juxtapositions. Sakamoto, a family man with a lethal past, balances household chores with thwarting assassination attempts. His adversaries are surprisingly complex, possessing depth beyond the typical "bloodthirsty mercenary" archetype. The series cleverly subverts expectations, blurring the lines between danger and normalcy.

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A Moral Compass in a World of Chaos:

The first four episodes establish a clear moral compass, emphasizing the importance of family and community. While action-packed, the series balances intense fight scenes with heartwarming family moments, creating a refreshing dynamic. The fights themselves are not mere spectacle; they reveal character depth and drive the plot forward.

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Similar Anime Recommendations:

If you enjoyed Sakamoto Days, consider these similar titles:

• Spy x Family: Shares the family-centric comedy and action elements, featuring protagonists with hidden identities and surprisingly similar skill sets.

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• Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband: Offers similar humor and absurdity, focusing on the everyday life of a retired yakuza turned househusband.

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• The Fable: Explores a similar premise of a hitman forced into a normal life, but with a darker tone and more dramatic themes.

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• Hinamatsuri: Features a yakuza member raising a girl with telekinetic powers, echoing the theme of balancing a dangerous past with domestic responsibilities.

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• Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan: A historical counterpart, focusing on a former mercenary seeking redemption while protecting the innocent.

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• Assassination Classroom: Plays with contrasts, similar to Sakamoto Days, featuring unexpected characters and situations.

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• Buddy Daddies: Centers around two assassins unexpectedly becoming parents, mirroring the challenges of balancing a criminal past with family life.

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Sakamoto Days is a highly enjoyable anime that cleverly blends humor, action, and heartwarming family dynamics. Its unique characters, impressive animation, and surprising twists make it a must-watch for anime enthusiasts.