"Sakamoto Days: Action Meets Absurdity Perfectly"

For anime enthusiasts, 2025 kicked off with a spectacular lineup, including the much-anticipated continuation of the historical detective series *Pharmacist's Monologue* and the sequel to the beloved isekai *Solo Leveling*. However, the standout title that has quickly climbed to the top of Netflix Japan's charts is the brand-new 11-episode action series *Sakamoto Days*. Let's delve into what makes this anime a must-watch.

Why Sakamoto Days is an Excellent Anime

*Sakamoto Days* is an adaptation of Yuto Suzuki's manga that began in 2020 and swiftly captured a large following with its unique blend of action and humor. The protagonist, Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary assassin within Japan’s assassins’ association, decided to leave his lethal career behind after falling in love with a cheerful cashier at a local grocery store. He married her, became a father, and embraced a peaceful life running a small shop.

However, his past catches up when Shin, his former partner and protégé, arrives with orders to eliminate him. The series thrives on the premise that you can't just quit being a killer, thrusting Sakamoto into a thrilling narrative where he must protect his family from his old life's dangers. The absurdity of Sakamoto's battles, such as catching bullets with chewing gum and defending himself with a ladle, adds a humorous twist to the action.

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Spectacular Fight Scenes

The standout feature of *Sakamoto Days* is its spectacular fight scenes. Each episode introduces a new antagonist with elaborate killing techniques, yet Sakamoto rarely uses conventional weapons. Instead, he showcases his quick thinking and reflexes by ingeniously using everyday objects:

• He catches bullets with chopsticks.
• He deflects them with chewing gum.
• He fights back using pens.
• He blocks attacks with spatulas and ladles.
• He dodges lethal strikes at superhuman speeds.

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While the series is packed with action, it doesn't take itself too seriously, embracing its comedic elements. Sakamoto's near-invulnerability is played for laughs, contrasting hilariously with his unassuming physique.

Contrasts Form the Foundation of the Narrative

*Sakamoto Days* is built on contrasts. The protagonist is a principled family man with a dark past, who eagerly helps neighbors and fears divorce more than any assassin. His adversaries are equally complex, with rich backstories and unexpected empathy. The narrative plays with the notion that something deadly can become harmless, and vice versa, creating a dynamic and engaging storyline.

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Top-Notch Animation

The animation, handled by TMS Entertainment, known for works like *Dr. Stone* and *Detective Conan*, adheres to the best shonen traditions. The fight scenes are particularly impressive, with high contrast shadows and fluid motion that effectively convey dynamic movement through smooth transitions and smart pacing.

Killing is Bad: A Dominating Message

The first four episodes emphasize that killing is bad, balancing the action with uplifting family comedy and a diverse cast. The series not only showcases well-choreographed battles but also uses them to reveal character depth and enhance interpersonal dynamics.

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Overall, *Sakamoto Days* is a delightful blend of humor, action, and lighthearted scripting. Its moral message resonates widely, and the series continuously surprises its audience, setting a high pace from the start and promising more excitement as it continues.

Similar Anime to Watch While Waiting for More Episodes

Spy x Family

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**Studios:** Wit Studio, CloverWorks

Superagent Lloyd Forger takes on a mission to create a fake family to get close to his target. He recruits Yor, a city hall worker who is secretly an assassin, and Anya, a clever girl with mind-reading abilities, as his daughter. Their family life is filled with comedy and action, much like *Sakamoto Days*, with both protagonists excelling in their professions while navigating family dynamics.

Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband

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**Studio:** J.C. Staff

Former yakuza Tatsu, once known as the Immortal Dragon, retires to become a househusband. His daily life is filled with humorous and absurd situations as he tackles household chores with the same intensity he once reserved for gang activities. The humor and absurdity in *Gokushufudou* resonate with the lighthearted approach of *Sakamoto Days*.

The Fable

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**Studio:** Tezuka Productions

Akira Sato, known as The Fable, is a notorious hitman forced to live as a law-abiding citizen for a year. His struggle to adapt to normal life while dealing with his past mirrors Sakamoto's challenges, though *The Fable* offers a darker, more dramatic tone.

Hinamatsuri

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**Studio:** Feel

Yakuza member Nitta takes in Hina, a girl with telekinetic powers, after she falls from the sky. Their relationship evolves into a humorous and touching father-daughter dynamic, akin to Sakamoto's family life, balancing his dangerous past with domestic responsibilities.

Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan

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**Studios:** Gallop, Studio Deen

Set during the Meiji era, former mercenary Himura Kenshin seeks redemption by helping those in need. Like Sakamoto, he left his violent past behind and strives for an ordinary life, balancing action and comedy in his journey.

Assassination Classroom

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**Studio:** Lerche

An alien named Koro-sensei promises to destroy Earth but first teaches a class of misfits who must kill him within a year. The series plays with contrasts and challenges stereotypes, much like *Sakamoto Days*.

Buddy Daddies

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**Studio:** P.A. Works

Hitmen Kazuki and Rei take on parenting duties when Miri enters their lives. Their struggle to balance their dangerous professions with family life echoes Sakamoto's own journey, offering a humorous and heartwarming narrative.