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 action-packed Sakamoto Days. This 11-episode series, already a hit on Netflix Japan, is a must-watch.
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 To
Sakamoto Days follows Taro Sakamoto, a retired hitman who traded assassinations for aprons. Once a legendary killer, he now runs a small grocery store, happily married with a young daughter. 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 inventive fight scenes. Sakamoto, surprisingly, rarely uses weapons, instead employing incredible reflexes and resourcefulness. Chopsticks, chewing gum, pens—even spatulas and ladles become deadly weapons in his hands. He catches bullets! It's hilarious and exhilarating.

But Sakamoto Days isn't just action; it's a comedy too. The series cleverly plays with the contrast between Sakamoto's near-invulnerability and his ordinary appearance. This juxtaposition is a constant source of humor.
Contrasts Form the Foundation of the Narrative
The show masterfully uses contrasts throughout. Sakamoto, a family man with a deadly past, balances household chores with the threat of assassination. His adversaries are also complex, often possessing surprising depths and motivations. The lines between good and evil, killer and protector, blur constantly, keeping you guessing.

Top-Notch Animation in Sakamoto Days
Animated by TMS Entertainment (known for Dr. Stone and Detective Conan), Sakamoto Days boasts stunning visuals, especially in its fight scenes. The animation is fluid and dynamic, showcasing Sakamoto's grace and Shin's powerful moves with impressive detail.
Killing is Bad: This Message Dominates the First Four Episodes

While the action is intense, the series balances it with heartwarming family moments. The fights themselves are less about gratuitous violence and more about revealing character and strengthening relationships. It's a surprisingly wholesome blend of action and family comedy.
Sakamoto Days is simply fun. It's fast-paced, surprisingly heartfelt, and constantly inventive. The high quality of animation and writing make it a standout anime.
While the Series is Still Ongoing, We'd Like to Suggest Some Cool Stuff to Hang On To
If you enjoyed Sakamoto Days, you might also like these:
Spy x Family

**Studios:** Wit Studio, CloverWorks
What's in common? A blend of family, comedy, and action with protagonists who are masters of their respective fields and surprisingly capable sidekicks.
Gokushufudou: The Way of the Househusband

**Studio:** J.C. Staff
What's in common? Humor and absurdity, with a protagonist whose past experience makes even mundane tasks extraordinary.
The Fable

**Studio:** Tezuka Productions
What's in common? Similar premise and setting, though with a darker tone and more dramatic exploration of themes.
Hinamatsuri

**Studio:** Feel
What's in common? A dangerous past balanced with unexpected domestic responsibilities.
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan

**Studios:** Gallop, Studio Deen
What's in common? A similar blend of action, comedy, and a protagonist who has left a violent past behind.
Assassination Classroom

**Studio:** Lerche
What's in common? Playing with contrasts and challenging expectations.
Buddy Daddies

**Studio:** P.A. Works
What's in common? Mercenaries struggling to balance their dangerous profession with unexpected parental duties.