The highly anticipated adaptation of Sakamoto Days has landed on Netflix, bringing Yuto Suzuki’s beloved manga to life with humor, action, and heartfelt storytelling. The first two episodes deliver a strong introduction, balancing quirky charm with emotional depth while setting the stage for a series that promises to be both thrilling and fun.

Episode 1: "The Legendary Hitman"

The opening episode immediately immerses viewers in Taro Sakamoto’s unique world. Once the most feared assassin, Sakamoto has left his violent past behind to run a convenience store and live a peaceful life with his family. However, his past comes knocking when Shin Asakura, a telepathic assassin, is sent to eliminate him for leaving the hitman profession.

The standout moment in this episode is the confrontation in Sakamoto’s convenience shop. The fight is hilariously wacky, with Sakamoto using everyday objects like gum and custard-filled pies to neutralize Shin without harming him. This sequence not only highlights Sakamoto’s unparalleled skills but also sets the bar for future conflicts, blending absurdity with inventive choreography.

Shin’s eventual realization of the appeal of Sakamoto’s peaceful lifestyle is another highlight. After enjoying a simple, heartfelt meal prepared by Sakamoto’s wife, Aoi, Shin begins to understand the value of family and tranquility. This quiet moment adds depth to his decision to abandon his mission and join Sakamoto’s life, creating a meaningful connection between the action and the narrative’s heart.

Studio Pine Jam’s animation shines throughout, with fluid movements and expressive character designs that bring humor and tension to life. The humor, driven by Sakamoto’s deadpan reactions and Shin’s disbelief at his retired state, is perfectly timed, setting a tone that balances comedy and action beautifully.

Episode 2: "Vs. Son Hee and Bacho"

The second episode builds on the momentum, introducing more eccentric characters and diving deeper into Sakamoto’s commitment to his new way of life. Sakamoto and Shin cross paths with Lu Shaotang, a mafia heiress on the run from the assassin siblings Son Hee and Bacho. The villains are among the worst the assassin world has to offer, showcasing ruthless skill and unrelenting determination, which makes Sakamoto’s victories all the more impressive.

The conflict in this episode emphasizes Sakamoto’s commitment to non-lethal combat. In a tense fight, he employs a ladle, a skillet, and even a refrigerator to outwit and subdue the assassins. This creative approach not only showcases Sakamoto’s ingenuity but also reinforces his promise to protect others without taking lives. The animation brings these sequences to life with dynamic camera angles and inventive choreography, keeping the fights entertaining and engaging.

The emotional heart of the episode comes in the form of a flashback to young Sakamoto and his wife, Aoi. This glimpse into their shared past provides insight into Sakamoto’s decision to renounce violence and dedicate himself to helping others. The connection between his promise to Aoi and his actions in the present adds weight to his non-lethal philosophy, making him a deeply compelling protagonist.

The humor continues to excel, with Lu’s fiery personality and the absurdity of the fight sequences adding levity to the intense action. Combined with the emotional beats tied to Lu’s backstory, the episode strikes a satisfying balance between comedy, action, and heartfelt moments.

Final Thoughts

Sakamoto Days has made an outstanding debut, delivering a perfect blend of action, humor, and emotional storytelling. The first two episodes highlight the series’ strengths: inventive combat sequences, well-timed humor, and heartfelt character moments.

Studio Pine Jam’s animation is vibrant and fluid, capturing the energy and creativity of the manga while adding depth to character expressions and interactions. Sakamoto’s commitment to non-lethal combat, paired with his quirky personality, sets this series apart from other action-driven anime.

With a strong start and a unique tone, Sakamoto Days is shaping up to be one of the most entertaining adaptations of the year. Whether you are a longtime fan of the manga or new to the series, this is a must-watch. Netflix has delivered a “killer” debut - one that promises even greater things to come.

Final Score: 9/10