I got the chance to watch Sakamoto Days. After watching the first two episodes, I can already tell this series is going to be a fun ride. It blends intense action with humor in a way that feels fresh and engaging, and I couldn’t wait to see where it would go next.
Episode One – The Legendary Hitman Turned Grocery Store Owner
The first episode opens with a bang—literally. We meet Taro Sakamoto, a former legendary hitman who was feared across the globe for his unmatched skills. But here’s the twist: he's no longer living the high-stakes life of an assassin. Instead, he’s retired and running a grocery store.
The contrast between Sakamoto's past life and his current one is both hilarious and intriguing. We’re introduced to him as a heavyset, laid-back man who’s more interested in stocking shelves and interacting with his customers than taking out targets. This juxtaposition between his dangerous past and mundane present sets the stage for a unique storyline. The idea of a former hitman leading such a quiet life is comical, yet it’s clear from the start that Sakamoto’s skills are far from gone. His laid-back demeanor only hides his dangerous potential, which makes for a delightful mix of tension and humor.
The episode does a great job of establishing the tone of the series. Sakamoto’s interactions with the people around him—especially his younger employee, who quickly becomes curious about his past—are filled with both humor and hints of mystery. The initial episode sets up a dynamic that promises a lot of action to come, but it also keeps things light with its quirky characters and fun atmosphere.
Episode Two – The Return of the Hitman
In episode two, we see a bit more of Sakamoto’s old life returning when an old enemy shows up to challenge him. The episode brings us a bit more action, and we get a taste of just how skilled Sakamoto really is. What makes this episode so fun is how effortlessly Sakamoto switches between his current, calm self and his old, deadly assassin persona.
The action scenes are choreographed well, with Sakamoto taking on his enemies with ease. It’s clear he’s still in top form, despite his retirement. What makes this all the more entertaining is the fact that he’s doing all of this while trying to maintain his normal, peaceful life at the grocery store. It’s like watching a superhero who’s trying to live a regular life, but his extraordinary abilities keep getting in the way.
One of the standout moments in this episode is when Sakamoto’s former ally (or rival?) arrives, and the two characters share a tense but playful exchange. The chemistry between them adds another layer to the story, teasing the idea that Sakamoto’s quiet life might not be as peaceful as he hopes. Even though he’s trying to stay retired, the world of assassins keeps pulling him back in, and it’s hard to see how long he’ll be able to resist.
What Makes Sakamoto Days Stand Out
What I really love about these first two episodes is how the show balances action with humor. It’s not just about the intense fight scenes (though they are definitely a highlight); it’s about how Sakamoto’s everyday life as a grocery store owner contrasts with his deadly abilities. There’s a delightful absurdity to seeing such a skilled assassin do something as mundane as stock groceries, and the humor comes from how out of place it all is for a character with his past.
The characters are also a huge draw. Sakamoto is a perfect blend of tough and funny, and the dynamic between him and his employees (particularly the young man who begins to suspect his past) is compelling. The series doesn't take itself too seriously, but it still manages to build up enough tension and excitement to keep you invested in what happens next.
Final Thoughts – I’m Hooked!
After just two episodes, Sakamoto Days has definitely won me over. The series is a refreshing mix of action, comedy, and character-driven moments. Sakamoto is a fascinating character—his deadly skills and laid-back attitude create a great dynamic that keeps things interesting. I’m excited to see how the series develops as we get more of Sakamoto’s past revealed and how he handles the challenges of balancing his old life with his new one.
If you’re looking for an anime that’s action-packed but still lighthearted and fun, Sakamoto Days is definitely one to check out. The first two episodes set the tone perfectly, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds. Whether you're a fan of action, comedy, or just great character development, this anime has something for everyone.
Rating 8/10