From Hitman to Shopkeeper: Sakamoto Days

Sakamoto Days. The name itself hints at a blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary, and that’s precisely what this manga and now anime deliver. It’s a wild ride of action, humor, and surprisingly heartwarming moments, all wrapped up in a unique premise. If you haven’t heard of it yet, buckle up, because you’re in for a treat.

RETIRED HITMAN TURNED CONVENIENCE STORE OWNER?

Sakamoto Days revolves around Taro Sakamoto, a legendary hitman who, at the pinnacle of his career, makes a shocking decision: he retires. He trades in his arsenal of weapons for an apron, gets married to Aoi, and together they have a daughter named Hana. Instead of taking lives, Sakamoto now decides himself to running a humble convenience store in a quiet neighborhood. Talk about a dramatic career change! He’s a bit older now, perhaps a little rounder around the edges, but he’s genuinely trying to embrace this new, ordinary life.

However, the world of assassins isn’t one that easily lets go of it’s legends. Former colleagues, some seeking to rekindle old partnerships, others driven by envy or a thirst for revenge, begin to emerge from the shadows. Rivals he thought he’d left behind resurface, eager to test their skills against the “retired” hitman. And new threats, eager to make a name for themselves, see Sakamoto as the ultimate target. Sakamoto’s earnest desire for a peaceful, mundane existence constantly clashing with the inescapable reality of his former profession. He finds himself juggling the responsibilities of a shopkeeper and a father with the need to protect his family and himself from the dangers that lurk around every corner.

THE MANGA: A BLEND OF ACTION AND COMEDY

The manga, written and illustrated by Yuto Suzuki, is where it all began. Serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump, it quickly gained popularity by its dynamic art style, fast-paced action sequences, and genuinely funny moments. Suzuki’s art is expressive and energetic, perfectly capturing the over-the-top nature of the fights while also portraying the more mundane aspects of Sakamoto’s everyday life.

What make the manga truly shine is its clever blend of action and comedy. One moment you’re witnessing a breathtaking fight scene with Sakamoto unleashing his incredible skills (even with his slightly less agile physique), and the next you’re laughing at his attempts to explain to his daughter why he has a hidden arsenal in the back of the store. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own unique quirks and motivations, adding layers of depth to the story. From his wife, Aoi, who is supportive and understanding, to the various assassins who cross his path, they all contribute to the rich tapestry of Sakamoto’s world.

THE ANIME: BRINGING THE ACTION TO LIFE

The anime adaption, which aired in January 2025, has breathed new life into the world of Sakamoto Days, bringing its unique blend of action, comedy, and heart to wider audience. Seeking the manga’s dynamic action sequences animated is an absolute thrill. The fluid movements, the impactful blows, and the sheer creativity of the fight choreography are all amplified by the animation, making each battle a visual spectacle. The voice acting is superb, with each actor perfectly capturing the personalities of their respective characters. From Sakamoto’s gruff but gentle demeanor to the eccentricities of the various assassins he encounters, the voice performances add depth and nuance to the characters, making them feel even more real and engaging.

The animation quality is top-notch, faithfully recreating Suzuki’s distinctive art style while adding its own flair. The vibrant colors, the expressive characters designs, and the detailed backgrounds all contribute to creating a visually stunning and immersive experience. The anime doesn’t just adapt the manga; it elevates it, bringing the world of Sakamoto Days to life in a way that is both faithful to the source material and uniquely its own. It’s a must-watch for fans of the manga, offering a fresh perspective to the story they love, and a fantastic entry point for newcomers, providing a fast-paced, action packed, and hilarious introduction to the world of retired hitman Taro Sakamoto.

WHY YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT SAKAMOTO DAYS

Sakamoto Days offers something for everyone. If you’re a fan of the manga, you’ll be hooked by the intense fight scenes and creative weaponry. If you enjoy comedy, the series is a full of laugh-out-loud moments. And if you’re looking for a story with heart, you’ll appreciate Sakamoto’s dedication to this family and his desire to leave his violent past behind.

It’s a series that doesn’t take itself seriously, yet it also manages to deliver genuine emotional moments. It’s a refreshing take on the “retired man” trope, with a unique blend of action, and humor. Whether you’re a seasoned manga reader or just looking for something new to watch, Sakamoto Days is definitely worth checking out. You won’t be disappointed.

WHERE TO FIND SAKAMOTO DAYS

The Sakamoto Days manga is available in print and digitally from various retailers. The anime is available for streaming on Netflix and other streaming platforms. So, what are you waiting for and get ready for a wild ride.