On January 11, Netflix adapted and aired a show based on the well-loved manga “Sakamoto Days.” This Japanese manga series, written and illustrated by Yuto Suzuki, features a blend of action and comedy.
The story and plot follows Taro Sakamoto, a once-renowned hitman who earned legendary status in the criminal underworld, feared by some and idolized by others. One day, he fell in love at first sight with Aoi, a convenience store clerk. For them to date, Aoi gave him a choice he had to quit being a hitman and never kill again, if found out, she’ll divorce him. Sakamoto agreed, and after his retirement, they began dating, got married, and had a daughter named Hana. Eventually, they opened a family-run convenience store.
The first episode follows Shin, an old comrade of Sakamoto, who visits his former master with a job to assassinate him. Despite his chubby appearance, Sakamoto is just fast and strong as if he were still in his prime. Sakamoto stops Shin from carrying out his mission and invites him to spend the night with him and his family. During this time, Shin learns about the reasons why Sakamoto abandoned his old lifestyle.
The next day, Shin returns to his employers and explains why he couldn’t go through with the assassination. This leads to a shootout. Just when it seems that Shin is about to meet his doom, Sakamoto arrives to save him, making a point of not killing anyone in the process.
The entire show continues to follow Sakamoto and his friends through various antics, from a paintball tournament to saving a group of scientists from a secret laboratory. It opens up for comedy-focused episodes mixed with action, and intense emotional scenes.
Reception to this adaptation has been very mixed, sparking a big debate among fans and critics alike. On one hand, some viewers have pointed out that the animation appears “rigid and stiff,” and that it lacks fluidity. Additionally, some fans argue that the story feels “lacking,” indicating that it may not have fully captured the essence of the source material or that it fails to engage viewers on a deeper emotional level.
However, it’s important to note that much of this criticism seems unwarranted and arguably over-exaggerated. While every production has its critiques, this particular adaptation is not so flawed that it deserves a relentless dogpile of negativity.
Overall, Sakamoto Days is an enjoyable watch; it’s not a life-changing show that will alter your perception of reality. Instead, it’s a lighthearted action anime that presents an interesting theme and aesthetic which is executed quite well. Sakamoto Days is worth a watch and worth your time. 5/5
