For anime enthusiasts, 2025 kicked off with a thrilling lineup, featuring the much-anticipated continuation of the historical detective series "Pharmacist's Monologue" and the sequel to the beloved isekai "Solo Leveling." Among these, the newly released 11-episode action series "Sakamoto Days" has quickly climbed to the top of Netflix Japan's charts, captivating audiences with its unique blend of action and humor.
Why "Sakamoto Days" Stands Out
"Sakamoto Days" is truly a standout anime, and here's why: it masterfully blends high-octane action with heartwarming family comedy. Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary assassin in Japan's assassins' association, left his deadly profession behind after falling deeply in love with a cheerful cashier. Now married and a father, he runs a small shop, embracing a peaceful life—until his past catches up with him.
The narrative's foundation lies in its compelling contrasts. Sakamoto, a principled family man with a dark history, faces adversaries who are just as complex. These characters often switch roles, with potential killers turning into allies and seemingly harmless individuals revealing their dangerous sides.
The animation, handled by TMS Entertainment, is top-notch, adhering to the best shonen traditions with fluid motion and dynamic fight scenes. Sakamoto's battles are absurdly entertaining, as he catches bullets with chewing gum and defends himself with everyday items like spatulas and ladles, showcasing his quick thinking and adaptability.
A significant theme in the first four episodes is the message that "killing is bad," balancing the action with uplifting family moments. This blend of humor, well-choreographed battles, and lighthearted scripting keeps viewers engaged, constantly surprising them with its high pace and character depth.
Image: ensigame.com
Recommended Anime for "Sakamoto Days" Fans
While "Sakamoto Days" continues to unfold, here are some other anime you might enjoy:
Spy x Family
Superagent Lloyd Forger creates a fake family to get closer to his target, not realizing that his wife, Yor, is an assassin, and his daughter, Anya, can read minds. Like "Sakamoto Days," this series combines family atmosphere with action and comedy, with protagonists who excel in their professions while navigating family life.
Image: ensigame.com
Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband
Tatsu, once a feared yakuza, now tackles household chores with the same intensity he once reserved for gang warfare. The humor and absurdity in his daily life echo the light-hearted elements found in "Sakamoto Days."
Image: ensigame.com
The Fable
Akira Sato, known as The Fable, is a hitman forced to live as a law-abiding citizen for a year. This series shares a similar premise with "Sakamoto Days," offering a darker tone and exploring complex themes.
Image: ensigame.com
Hinamatsuri
Yakuza member Nitta takes in Hina, a girl with telekinetic powers, and balances his criminal life with parenting. This series, like "Sakamoto Days," blends a dangerous past with domestic responsibilities, offering humor and heartwarming moments.
Image: ensigame.com
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
Himura Kenshin, a former mercenary seeking redemption, helps those in need during the Meiji era. Like Sakamoto, Kenshin strives for an ordinary life while defending the weak, balancing action and comedy.
Image: ensigame.com
Assassination Classroom
An alien, Koro-sensei, becomes a teacher to a class of misfits who must kill him to save Earth. This series plays with contrasts much like "Sakamoto Days," challenging stereotypes and expectations.
Image: ensigame.com
Buddy Daddies
Hitmen Kazuki and Rei navigate freelance assassinations and parenting when Miri enters their lives. Their struggle to balance crime and childcare mirrors Sakamoto's challenges, offering a mix of action and family dynamics.
Image: ensigame.com
