There’s no such thing as a former mercenary. For anime fans, 2025 began with a bang: the return of the historical detective series Pharmacist's Monologue and the sequel to the popular isekai Solo Leveling. But one standout is the brand-new 11-episode action series, Sakamoto Days, already topping 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, adapted from Yuto Suzuki's popular 2020 manga, blends action and humor masterfully. Protagonist Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary assassin, traded his deadly profession for domestic bliss—marriage, fatherhood, and running a small shop. His peaceful life is shattered when Shin, his former partner and protégé, arrives with orders to eliminate him. The now-domesticated assassin must protect his family from his past.
The series shines with its absurdly entertaining battles. Sakamoto, using everyday objects like chewing gum and ladles, counters attacks with incredible reflexes and ingenuity. He catches bullets with chopsticks, deflects them with gum, fights with pens, blocks attacks with spatulas and ladles, and dodges lethal blows at superhuman speeds.
The spectacular fight scenes are a highlight, each episode introducing a new antagonist with unique killing techniques. However, the series is also a comedy. Sakamoto's near-invulnerability is played for laughs, contrasting hilariously with his ordinary physique. The show doesn't shy away from poking fun at his omnipotence.
Contrasts form the foundation of the narrative
The series masterfully juxtaposes characters, storylines, and tone. Sakamoto, a principled family man with a dark past, balances household chores with protecting his family. His adversaries, equally complex, possess rich backstories and aren't simply bloodthirsty mercenaries. The series constantly subverts expectations: deadly situations become harmless, and seemingly ordinary individuals reveal psychopathic tendencies.
Top-notch animation in Sakamoto Days
Produced by TMS Entertainment (Dr. Stone, Detective Conan), the animation is top-tier shonen. Fight scenes are dynamic, utilizing impressive shadow contrasts and fluid motion to convey the action. Sakamoto's grace and Shin's Hollywood-esque maneuvers are beautifully animated.
Killing is bad: this message dominates the first four episodes
The series balances intense action with uplifting family comedy. The fights aren't just spectacle; they reveal character depth and enhance relationships. Sakamoto Days is enjoyable, blending humor, well-choreographed battles, and a lighthearted script. Its moral message resonates, and its constant surprises keep it engaging.
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 superagent creates a fake family to infiltrate his target's life, only to discover his "wife" is an assassin and his "daughter" can read minds. Shares a family atmosphere, comedy, action, and similar protagonist archetypes with Sakamoto Days.
Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband
**Studio:** J.C. Staff
A legendary yakuza becomes a househusband. Shares the humor and absurdity, with a protagonist whose past experience colors his everyday life.
The Fable
**Studio:** Tezuka Productions
A notorious hitman is forced to live a normal life. Similar premise and setting, but with a darker tone and more dramatic exploration of themes.
Hinamatsuri
**Studio:** Feel
A yakuza member takes in a girl with telekinetic powers. Shares the balance of a dangerous past with domestic responsibilities.
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
**Studios:** Gallop, Studio Deen
A former mercenary seeks redemption. Similar themes of a violent past and striving for an ordinary life, with a balance of comedy and action.
Assassination Classroom
**Studio:** Lerche
A powerful alien teacher must be assassinated by his students. Shares the use of contrasts and subverting expectations.
Buddy Daddies
**Studio:** P.A. Works
Two hitmen become unlikely parents. Mirrors the challenges of balancing crime and childcare.
