Sakamoto Days is the perfect mix of action and absurdity

Sakamoto Days: A Hilarious Blend of Action and Domesticity

2025 saw the arrival of several highly anticipated anime, including the continuation of Pharmacist's Monologue and the sequel to Solo Leveling. However, one newcomer quickly rose to prominence: Sakamoto Days, an 11-episode action-comedy that dominated Netflix Japan's charts. This review explores why this fresh take on the action genre is so compelling.

A Retired Hitman's Unexpected Life

Sakamoto Days, adapted from Yuto Suzuki's popular manga, follows Taro Sakamoto, a legendary assassin who traded his deadly profession for a quiet life running a small grocery store with his wife and daughter. His peaceful existence is shattered by the reappearance of Shin, his former protégé, who's tasked with eliminating him. The ensuing chaos features absurdly over-the-top fight sequences where Sakamoto utilizes everyday objects—chopsticks, chewing gum, even ladles—to disarm his opponents with incredible skill and speed.

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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, particularly in the dynamic fight scenes. The series masterfully blends intense action with slapstick comedy, creating a unique viewing experience. Sakamoto's near-invulnerability is played for laughs, contrasting hilariously with his ordinary appearance and surprisingly domestic nature.

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Contrasting Characters and Themes

The narrative thrives on contrasts. Sakamoto, a principled family man with a lethal past, balances his domestic life with unexpected encounters with former associates. His adversaries, while dangerous, are often complex individuals with their own motivations and backstories, defying typical mercenary stereotypes. The series cleverly subverts expectations, blurring the lines between seemingly harmless individuals and deadly threats.

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A Moral Compass in a World of Chaos

The first four episodes emphasize the contrast between brutal violence and heartwarming family comedy. The action sequences, while spectacular, serve to reveal character depth and enhance relationships rather than simply being gratuitous displays of violence. The series' underlying message against violence is subtly woven into the narrative, adding another layer of depth.

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Similar Anime Recommendations

If you enjoyed Sakamoto Days, consider checking out these similar titles:

• Spy x Family: Shares a similar blend of family dynamics, comedy, and action, featuring protagonists with hidden identities and unexpected superpowers. Image: ensigame.com

• Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband: Offers a similar brand of absurd humor, focusing on a retired yakuza adapting to domestic life. Image: ensigame.com

• The Fable: Explores a similar premise of a retired assassin attempting to live a normal life, albeit with a darker tone. Image: ensigame.com

• Hinamatsuri: Features a yakuza member raising a girl with telekinetic powers, mirroring the balance between dangerous past and domestic responsibility. Image: ensigame.com

• Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan: Shares thematic similarities with a former mercenary seeking redemption and balancing action with domestic scenes. Image: ensigame.com

• Assassination Classroom: Employs similar contrasting elements, juxtaposing a powerful alien teacher with ordinary students on an extraordinary mission. Image: ensigame.com

• Buddy Daddies: Centers around two assassins unexpectedly becoming parents, highlighting the challenges of balancing their criminal lives with childcare. Image: ensigame.com

Sakamoto Days is a highly enjoyable anime that successfully blends action, comedy, and a surprisingly heartwarming family dynamic. Its fast pace, clever writing, and memorable characters make it a must-watch for fans of the action-comedy genre.