Netflix has a new anime hit on its hands, and it’s quickly gaining popularity for its unique blend of action and comedy. Sakamoto Days, based on the popular manga by Yuto Suzuki, is drawing comparisons to the John Wick franchise, and for good reason. The series follows a retired hitman who tries to live a normal life, but his past keeps catching up with him, forcing him back into the world of assassins.
The Premise: A Retired Assassin’s Comedic Struggle
The story centers around Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary assassin feared by many. However, he trades his life of danger for love, marriage, and fatherhood. Sakamoto retires from his deadly profession and opens a convenience store. He also gains some weight in the process.
However, Sakamoto’s peaceful existence is threatened when his past comes back to haunt him. He finds himself facing off against assassins, all while trying to maintain his promise to his wife: no more killing. This sets the stage for a unique blend of action and humor as Sakamoto must rely on non-lethal methods and creative solutions to defeat his enemies.
A Departure From the Typical Hitman Story
While the plot shares similarities with John Wick, where a retired assassin is pulled back into the world they left behind, Sakamoto Days distinguishes itself through its tone. Unlike John Wick, who has killed hundreds on screen, Sakamoto is determined to keep his vow of no killing, leading to more comedic and inventive fight sequences. This difference in approach provides a fresh take on the familiar genre.
Action and Comedy in Perfect Harmony
One of the primary reasons Sakamoto Days is capturing audiences is its ability to seamlessly blend over-the-top action with hilarious moments. The fight scenes are incredibly choreographed, with Sakamoto using his superhuman strength and skills in creative ways. At the same time, the series incorporates slice-of-life elements as Sakamoto grapples with everyday tasks while trying to protect his family.
A Nod to John Wick’s Influence
The influence of John Wick is evident in the premise and action sequences, with the series exploring themes of assassins, organizations of killers, and elaborate fight choreography. However, Sakamoto Days is more than just a copycat, offering a unique take on the action genre.
A Growing Fan Base and Critical Acclaim
The anime adaptation of Sakamoto Days has quickly gained a dedicated following and is currently ranked highly on Netflix’s top 10 list of most popular shows. The series premiered on January 11th, with new episodes released weekly. It has been hailed as a major Shōnen hit of the Winter 2025 season, attracting both casual anime viewers and long-time fans.
The Manga’s Popularity
The manga series by Yuto Suzuki has been serialized in Shonen Jump since 2020. It’s captivated fans worldwide with its action-packed battles and unique take on the assassin genre. The series is praised for its unique blend of action, comedy, and slice-of-life moments.
Netflix’s Commitment to Anime
Sakamoto Days is the latest in a string of new anime offerings from Netflix, demonstrating the streaming giant’s commitment to the genre. The series is one of several high-profile anime adaptations set to premiere in 2025, including Devil May Cry, Moonrise, and Splinter Cell: Deathwatch.
Other Anime to Watch on Netflix in 2025
- Moonrise, premiering March 18, 2025, is a science fiction anime that explores humanity’s colonization of the moon.
- Devil May Cry, launching in April 2025, is an adaptation of the popular video game series.
- Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, arriving on May 10, 2025, brings the stealth and espionage expertise of Sam Fisher to anime.
- Baban Baban Ban Vampire also premiered on January 11th along with Sakamoto Days. It follows a 450 year-old vampire working at a bathhouse.
- Other titles to look out for include: Dandadan Season 2, Leviathan, My Happy Marriage Season 2, The Summer Hikaru Died, and BRZRKR.
Why ‘Sakamoto Days’ is a Must-See
For fans of action-packed stories with a comedic twist, Sakamoto Days is a must-watch anime. Its unique blend of high-octane fight sequences, humorous situations, and a compelling storyline makes it stand out from the crowd. The series takes the familiar “retired hitman” trope and gives it a fresh, exciting spin, making it a worthwhile addition to any anime fan’s watch list.
With its blend of action, comedy, and heart, Sakamoto Days is quickly becoming a must-watch for fans of anime and action movies alike. Whether you are a die-hard John Wick fan or just looking for a fun, action-packed series, Sakamoto Days on Netflix is worth checking out.
