Sakamoto Days is the perfect mix of action and absurdity

Sakamoto Days: A Hilarious Blend of Action and Family Life

2025 kicked off with a bang for anime fans, delivering sequels to beloved series and exciting new titles. Among them, the 11-episode action-comedy Sakamoto Days quickly ascended Netflix Japan's charts. This review delves into why it's such a captivating watch.

A Retired Hitman's Unexpected Life

Based on Yuto Suzuki's popular manga, Sakamoto Days follows Taro Sakamoto, a legendary assassin who traded his deadly profession for a peaceful life running a small grocery store with his wife and daughter. His quiet existence is shattered when Shin, his former protégé, reappears with orders to eliminate him. The ensuing chaos involves absurd battles where Sakamoto utilizes everyday objects – chopsticks, chewing gum, even spatulas – to disarm his opponents with incredible skill and speed.

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Spectacular Action and Unexpected Humor

The series' standout is its dynamic fight choreography. Each episode introduces new antagonists with unique killing methods, contrasting sharply with Sakamoto's unconventional, almost comedic, approach to combat. The show embraces its absurdity, never taking itself too seriously, and cleverly juxtaposes Sakamoto's near-invulnerability with his ordinary physique.

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Contrasting Characters and Themes

The narrative masterfully plays with contrasts. Sakamoto, a principled family man with a lethal past, balances household chores with thwarting assassination attempts. His adversaries, while dangerous, are often complex characters with compelling backstories, subverting typical mercenary tropes. The series cleverly blurs the lines between deadly and harmless, constantly surprising the viewer.

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Top-Tier Animation from TMS Entertainment

Animated by TMS Entertainment (known for Dr. Stone and Detective Conan), Sakamoto Days boasts stunning visuals, particularly in its action sequences. Fluid animation and dynamic shadow play enhance the already thrilling fight scenes.

A Moral Compass Amidst the Mayhem

The first four episodes emphasize the anti-violence message, balancing intense action with heartwarming family moments. 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 anime:

• Spy x Family: Shares the family-centric comedy and action, featuring protagonists with similar skills and calm demeanors under pressure. The sidekicks even have comparable abilities.

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• Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband: Offers similar humor and absurdity, showcasing an ex-yakuza adapting to domestic life.

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

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

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• Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan: A historical counterpart, focusing on a former mercenary seeking redemption and balancing action with lighthearted moments.

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• Assassination Classroom: Employs similar contrasting elements, featuring an alien teacher and his students undertaking an extraordinary mission.

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• Buddy Daddies: Focuses on hitmen unexpectedly becoming parents, mirroring the challenges of balancing crime and family life.

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Sakamoto Days is a highly enjoyable anime, successfully blending humor, action, and a surprisingly heartwarming message. Its fast pace and engaging characters make it a must-watch.