If Ninja Kamui disappointed fans of John Wick, Sakamoto Days is here to make up for it. The beloved Shōnen Jump manga by Yuto Suzuki is finally getting its highly anticipated anime debut in January 2025. Netflix is bringing the action-packed series exclusively to its platform, with episodes dropping weekly. The latest teaser from Netflix’s Geeked Week event has only intensified fan excitement, giving fans a glimpse of the high-octane action and comedic charm that makes Sakamoto Days a standout title in the shōnen genre.
The teaser shifts seamlessly between Sakamoto’s darker, more violent past and his current, somewhat humorous present. One moment, he’s a John Wick-level assassin dishing out brutal take-downs, and the next, he’s a doting father struggling with the everyday responsibilities of running a family business. This contrast of tones is precisely what fans of the manga have been waiting for, and it’s already making waves in the anime community.
What Fans Can Expect From Sakamoto Days
A Unique Blend of Action and Comedy
At its core, Sakamoto Days is about Taro Sakamoto, a legendary ex-hitman who has traded his blood-soaked past for a quiet life as a convenience store owner. However, old habits die hard. Despite putting on a few pounds and embracing fatherhood, Sakamoto is still a force to be reckoned with, and his skills remain razor-sharp. When his old enemies resurface, Sakamoto must navigate the mundane aspects of family life while fending off dangerous assassins, all without losing his cool.
Fans of the original manga are already praising the faithful adaptation, with the trailer showcasing Sakamoto Days’ signature blend of gritty fight scenes juxtaposed with comedic, slice-of-life sequences. For those who love action but enjoy a dose of humor, this is shaping up to be a must-watch.
The first season of Sakamoto Days is expected to cover the series’ initial arc, focusing on Sakamoto’s early confrontations with old foes who refuse to believe he’s truly retired. This arc introduces key characters, including Sakamoto’s psychic assistant Shin, who quickly becomes an essential ally in protecting their peaceful existence.
Who’s Behind the Anime Adaptation?
Talented Creators and Top-Notch Staff
Behind the scenes, Sakamoto Days boasts an impressive roster of talent. The series is directed by Masaki Watanabe, known for his work on Seikaisuru Kado, ensuring that the anime’s action sequences will be as visually stunning as they are engaging. The screenwriting is handled by Taku Kishimoto, who has penned fan-favorite series like Haikyu!! and Fruits Basket, guaranteeing strong character development alongside the action.
With TMS Entertainment, the studio behind Detective Conan and Dr. Stone, overseeing production, fans can expect high-quality animation and an aesthetic that stays true to the original manga’s dynamic art style.
The Legacy of Sakamoto Days and Its Place in Shonen History
Spy x Family and John Wick comparisons aside, Sakamoto Days is carving out its own identity within the world of shōnen anime. It’s a refreshing take on the action genre, with a protagonist who isn’t defined by youthful ambition but rather by his desire for peace. The stakes are personal, the action is brutal yet inventive, and the humor is sharp.
With an established fanbase from the manga and a buzzworthy trailer that has sparked interest even among those new to the series, Sakamoto Days is poised to be a breakout hit in early 2025.
