Sakamoto Days is the perfect mix of action and absurdity

For anime fans, 2025 began with a bang! We saw the return of beloved series like Pharmacist's Monologue and Solo Leveling, but one newcomer quickly stole the spotlight: the electrifying 11-episode action series, Sakamoto Days, which soared to the top of Netflix Japan's charts. It's truly excellent, and here's why.

Table of Contents

• It really is an excellent anime. Let’s break down why!
• Contrasts form the foundation of the narrative
• Top-notch animation in Sakamoto Days
• Killing is bad: this message dominates the first four episodes
• While the series is still ongoing, we’d like to suggest some cool stuff to hang on

Sakamoto Days adapts Yuto Suzuki's popular manga (launched in 2020), seamlessly blending action and humor. Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary assassin, traded in his deadly profession for a peaceful life running a small shop with his wife and daughter. But his past catches up when Shin, his former partner, arrives with orders to eliminate him. Now, Sakamoto must protect his family from those seeking revenge, engaging in absurd battles where everyday objects become unlikely weapons—catching bullets with chewing gum, deflecting attacks with a ladle! It's pure, chaotic fun.

Contrasts form the foundation of the narrative

The series masterfully juxtaposes elements: Sakamoto, a principled family man with a deadly past, balances helping neighbors with facing down assassins. His adversaries, too, are complex, possessing rich backstories and surprising depths. The show constantly subverts expectations; a seemingly harmless pizza delivery guy could be a psychopath, while a would-be killer might find redemption. This constant shifting of expectations keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.

Top-notch animation in Sakamoto Days

Produced by TMS Entertainment (known for Dr. Stone and Detective Conan), the animation is superb, particularly in the fight sequences. Dynamic movements are fluid and impactful, showcasing Sakamoto's grace and Shin's Hollywood-esque action hero style.

Killing is bad: this message dominates the first four episodes

The show balances intense action with heartwarming family comedy. The fights aren't just spectacle; they reveal character and enhance relationships. The series' moral compass shines through, constantly surprising viewers with its clever twists and turns.

Sakamoto Days is a highly enjoyable blend of humor, expertly choreographed action, and a lighthearted approach. With its fast pace and strong source material, it shows no signs of slowing down.

While the series is still ongoing, we’d like to suggest some cool stuff to hang on

Spy x Family

Studios: Wit Studio, CloverWorks

A super-spy creates a fake family, only to discover his wife is an assassin and his daughter can read minds. Shares a similar blend of family dynamics, comedy, and action with Sakamoto Days, featuring protagonists with similar skills and even similar sidekick dynamics.

Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband

Studio: J.C. Staff

A retired yakuza becomes a househusband, finding absurdity in everyday tasks. Shares the humor and over-the-top reactions to mundane situations.

The Fable

Studio: Tezuka Productions

A hitman is forced to live a normal life, but boredom and the mafia pull him back in. Similar premise and setting, but with a darker tone.

Hinamatsuri

Studio: Feel

A yakuza member takes in a girl with telekinetic powers, balancing his dangerous past with fatherly responsibilities.

Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan

Studios: Gallop, Studio Deen

A former mercenary seeks redemption while helping others. Similar themes of a violent past and a desire for a normal life, with a balance of comedy and action.

Assassination Classroom

Studio: Lerche

A powerful alien becomes a teacher, challenging his students to assassinate him before he destroys the Earth. Shares the playful use of contrasts and subversion of expectations.

Buddy Daddies

Studio: P.A. Works

Two assassins unexpectedly become parents, balancing their dangerous profession with childcare. Similar themes of mercenaries trying to lead normal lives and the challenges of balancing crime with family.