Sakamoto Days Anime: Everything You Need to Know (Watch, Plot, Characters, & More)

From Assassin to Aprons: Diving into Sakamoto Days

Ever wondered what John Wick would be like if he traded headshots for haggling and gun-fu for grocery runs? Sakamoto Days answers that question with a hilarious and action-packed story about Taro Sakamoto, a legendary hitman who retires to family life and runs a humble convenience store. This guide covers everything you need to know about the anime, from the plot and characters to where you can watch it and what makes it so appealing.

The Story: Trading Bullets for Bargains

Taro Sakamoto was once the underworld’s deadliest assassin. Feared and revered, he was the go-to guy for any job requiring swift, silent, and permanent solutions. Then, he fell in love, got married, and had a daughter. Now, he’s a slightly out-of-shape convenience store owner who’s more likely to be found clipping coupons than clipping adversaries.

This peaceful existence is constantly threatened by remnants of his past. Old enemies and rivals emerge, forcing Sakamoto to dust off his deadly skills, not to reclaim his former glory, but to protect his family. This creates a compelling conflict: how can a man accustomed to violence maintain his vow of peace while keeping his loved ones safe? The series expertly balances this tension with humor, resulting in a unique blend of action, comedy, and family dynamics.

Meet the Quirky Crew: Characters of Sakamoto Days

Sakamoto Days boasts a cast as diverse and memorable as the products lining Sakamoto’s store shelves.

• Taro Sakamoto: Voiced by Matthew Mercer in the English dub and Tomokazu Sugita (known for Gintama) in Japanese, Sakamoto is the ultimate badass dad. He’s a man of few words but unparalleled action, juggling diaper changes with disarming bombs (sometimes literally).
• Shin Asakura: A teenage esper-in-training and Sakamoto’s apprentice, Shin brings youthful energy and a touch of naiveté to the mix. His telepathic abilities add an intriguing layer to the action and often provide comedic relief.
• Lu Xiaotang: A skilled martial artist with a penchant for unpredictable fighting styles, Lu adds a touch of whimsical chaos to the team. Her unconventional and often hilarious methods make her a valuable ally.
• Aoi Sakamoto: Sakamoto’s wife and the anchor of his new life, Aoi is surprisingly unfazed by her husband’s deadly past. She provides a grounding presence amidst the chaos.
• Hana Sakamoto: Sakamoto’s energetic and adorable daughter, Hana is blissfully unaware of her father’s true identity, adding to the humor and heartwarming family dynamic.

Where to Watch: Grabbing a Front-Row Seat

Ready to binge the action-comedy goodness? Sakamoto Days is available for streaming on Netflix. Check your region for availability, as streaming rights can vary.

Beyond the Anime: Manga and More

Craving more Sakamoto after finishing the anime? The series is based on the ongoing manga by Yuto Suzuki, serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump. Viz Media publishes the English version, allowing you to dive deeper into the world and story.

Is it Worth Watching? Weighing the Pros and Cons

Sakamoto Days offers a unique blend of action, comedy, and slice-of-life elements that makes it a truly entertaining watch. The animation is fluid and dynamic, particularly during the fight sequences. The humor, while occasionally relying on familiar tropes, generally lands well, delivering laugh-out-loud moments. The series also explores themes of family, redemption, and the struggle to leave the past behind, adding depth beyond the action-comedy surface.

Some viewers might find the pacing uneven, with some episodes focusing more on humor and others on action. While the humor generally hits the mark, some gags might not resonate with all viewers. Like any series, Sakamoto Days has its strengths and weaknesses, but its overall appeal likely outweighs any minor shortcomings.

Sakamoto Days: FAQ

• Is Sakamoto Days good for beginners to anime? Yes! The blend of action, comedy, and relatable family moments makes it easily accessible and enjoyable for newcomers.
• Is it suitable for all ages? The show has a TV-MA rating, primarily for stylized violence and some suggestive themes. Parental guidance is suggested for younger viewers.
• Will there be a Season 2? While a second season hasn’t been officially announced, the manga’s popularity suggests a continuation is likely. Stay tuned for updates!
• What other anime are similar? Fans of Sakamoto Days might also enjoy The Way of the Househusband, Hinamatsuri, or Spy x Family for similar blends of action, comedy, and quirky family dynamics.

The Verdict: A Must-Watch for Action-Comedy Fans

Sakamoto Days delivers a refreshing and entertaining take on the action-comedy genre. Its unique premise, engaging characters, and dynamic animation make it a must-watch for anyone looking for a fun and exciting anime experience. While not without its minor flaws, the series succeeds in creating a world that is both hilarious and heartwarming, leaving viewers eager for more of Sakamoto’s unconventional adventures.