Sakamoto Days Season 1 Part 1: Top 5 Moments Before Part 2
If you told me a few years ago that one of the most compelling, hilarious, and heart-pounding action series from Weekly Shonen Jump would center around a chubby retired hitman running a convenience store—I'd have assumed you meant a parody. And yet, Sakamoto Days is anything but. Yuto Suzuki's manga-turned-anime is a true standout in the ever-competitive Shonen Jump lineup, mixing high-octane action with side-splitting comedy and surprisingly heartfelt character moments. As we eagerly await Sakamoto Days Season 1 Part 2, it's the perfect time to reflect on everything Season 1 Part 1 delivered—and what the future holds for our loveable ex-assassin and his crew.
The Premise: Why Sakamoto Days Hit So Hard (Pun Intended)
At its core, Sakamoto Days follows Taro Sakamoto, once the most feared assassin in the underground world. But after falling in love and settling down, he retires, gains some serious dad-weight, and now runs a neighborhood convenience store. That sounds like a peaceful gig... until his past refuses to stay buried.
From its very announcement, fans of the manga were cautiously optimistic. Could an anime adaptation truly capture Sakamoto's lightning-fast fights, perfect comedic timing, and surprisingly tender moments? Fortunately, Season 1 Part 1 proved to be a near-perfect introduction to this wildly inventive world, and the fan response has been overwhelmingly positive. It's no small feat to balance ultra-violence with slice-of-life gags, but Studio TMS (best known for Dr. Stone and Detective Conan) pulled it off.
Best Moments from Sakamoto Days Season 1 Part 1
1. Shin's Introduction: From Would-Be Assassin to Trusted Partner
Right out of the gate, Sakamoto Days made a bold move by giving us a former hitman protagonist—then immediately introducing a young, loud, mind-reading assassin tasked with taking him out. But Shin's mission doesn't go quite as planned. After experiencing firsthand that Sakamoto might look like a middle-aged uncle but still fights like an apex predator, Shin ends up joining forces with him instead.
The early fight between Shin and Sakamoto isn't just flashy—it's profoundly revealing. Shin's telepathy, a power he got from an accidental serum consumption in a research lab, becomes the audience's direct line into Sakamoto's inner monologue, which contrasts hilariously with his deadpan, often expressionless exterior. We're treated to the chaotic internal monologues of a man who can dodge bullets while mentally screaming about a sale on milk or a particularly stubborn stain. This genius comedic device is more than just a gimmick; it's the very foundation of their burgeoning relationship and provides the show's unique brand of humor. Their chemistry forms the emotional backbone of the show, and you can already tell this odd couple is going to work. Shin, the perpetually exasperated "straight man," becomes our relatable window into the absurd world of the former strongest hitman.
And let's not forget the financial woes! Shin complaining about being broke while getting flung through windows, or lamenting property damage that will surely come out of his meager paycheck, is peak comedy. It's a constant, grounding reminder that even in a world of superhuman assassins, rent is still due, and collateral damage has a cost. His frantic, often audible, internal calculations about his salary deductions while in the middle of a life-or-death brawl highlight the perfectly mundane struggles of trying to survive as Sakamoto's accidental sidekick.
2. The Amusement Park Battle: Deadly Mascots & Weaponized Churros
This arc is where Sakamoto Days truly ignites, transforming from a promising concept into a full-blown action-comedy spectacle. After the initial introductions, including the formidable Lu joining the crew, Sakamoto, with his unsuspecting wife Aoi and daughter Hana, decides to treat them to a seemingly innocent day at the whimsical Sugar Park. What they don't know, but Sakamoto and his secret crew of Shin and Lu soon discover, is that this sugary paradise has been designated a literal deathtrap. A colossal 1 billion yen bounty has been placed on Sakamoto's head, turning every joyous attraction into a hunting ground for an array of eccentric assassins.
The genius of this arc lies in its spectacular contrast: highly trained killers are lurking, often hilariously disguised, as friendly theme park mascots. Imagine a menacing hitman emerging from a giant cotton candy machine, or a deadly sniper perched atop a roller coaster, all while maintaining the facade of a cheerful amusement park employee. This juxtaposition makes the ensuing violence both ridiculously funny and genuinely thrilling.
The choreography in these sequences is undeniably top-tier, showcasing Sakamoto's legendary adaptability and resourcefulness. He masterfully turns the mundane into the lethal, using everything from a sturdy cotton candy stick as a makeshift quarterstaff to leveraging the spinning momentum of a Ferris wheel for an aerial assault. One particularly iconic moment sees him effortlessly disarming an assailant, then, with a perfectly deadpan expression, using the enemy's own oversized mascot head as a devastating bludgeoning weapon. It's a ballet of absurd violence that perfectly captures the series' spirit.
Meanwhile, our telepathic hero Shin is very much in his element – which is to say, often getting tossed around like a ragdoll while desperately trying to keep up. His internal monologues, a direct feed of his escalating panic and exasperation, are pure gold as he grapples with the sheer absurdity of their situation. He's constantly trying to pinpoint threats with his mind-reading, only to be physically manhandled or flung through yet another concession stand window, all while mentally tallying the damages and worrying about his non-existent paycheck.
This entire battle solidifies Sakamoto Days' unique, intoxicating tone: it's the kind of high-octane, precision-driven action that could rival a John Wick film, but infused with the joyous, unpredictable charm and laugh-out-loud antics of your favorite weekend anime marathon. It's an unforgettable ride that proves the series knows exactly what it is, and it's absolutely glorious.
3. Lu Entered the Chat: Her Past Isn't as Peaceful as Her Smile
At first glance, Lu Xiaotang appears to be the picture of a chill, sometimes slightly lazy, cashier at Sakamoto's humble convenience store. Often found napping on the job or casually stuffing shelves, she seems utterly out of place in a world of legendary assassins. But the moment danger rears its head, her demeanor undergoes a dramatic, electrifying transformation. This unassuming young woman instantly becomes a whirlwind of dizzying power and precision, a testament to her extraordinary, hidden capabilities.
Her combat style isn't just generic martial arts; we quickly discover she is a masterful practitioner of Drunken Fist Kung Fu. This isn't merely a stylistic choice; it's intricately tied to her unique physiology. Lu's fighting prowess actually escalates with alcohol consumption, unlocking different "drunk" states—from a playfully erratic "Happy Drunk" to a ferociously precise "Angry Drunk"—each offering distinct advantages in battle. This inherited trait (stemming from a lineage known for extreme alcohol tolerance and fighting skill) makes her a truly unpredictable and formidable opponent.
More profoundly, we learn that Lu's deep connection isn't just to a "former hitman father." Lu is, in fact, the orphaned heiress of a powerful Triad family, a vast criminal organization that cast a long shadow over her youth. Her parents were tragically and brutally assassinated by rival killers, leaving her not only with immense grief but also with a literal "key" to her family's vast, hidden vault. This revelation is far more than just "cool"; it's profoundly meaningful, weaving her personal tragedy directly into the fabric of the series' overarching narrative.
Lu's arc serves as a poignant reminder that Sakamoto Days is brimming with characters desperately trying to escape the clutches of their violent pasts. Unlike many fighters who relish a brawl, Lu doesn't flaunt her immense skills or seek out conflict. She only engages in combat when absolutely necessary, often with a visible sigh of resignation or a muttered complaint about the inconvenience. This genuine humility and desire for normalcy, combined with her lethal efficiency when pushed, make her one of the most compelling and relatable members of Sakamoto's burgeoning team. She finds a sense of genuine family and belonging in the mundane routine of the convenience store, a stark contrast to the life she was born into.
And let's not forget that iconic, truly unforgettable scene where she literally mops the floor with a crew of assassins while meticulously keeping the shop tidy. It's a masterclass in comedic action: Lu effortlessly parries blows, delivers devastating counterattacks, and then, in the same fluid motion, straightens a crooked snack display or wipes down a counter. It's a hilarious, pitch-perfect demonstration of her dedication to her peaceful new life, even as it's under siege, and her unparalleled ability to multitask chaos and cleanliness. This scene alone cements her status as an absolute fan favorite and a testament to the series' unique brand of controlled absurdity.
4. Underground Weapons Market: A Peek at the Bigger Picture
This is the arc where Sakamoto Days truly flexes its muscles, catapulting the show's world-building from intriguing to utterly expansive. The Japan Combatant Committee (JCC) Entrance Exam, a grueling trial for aspiring assassins, becomes the stage for this dramatic escalation. Within this crucible, especially during the chaotic, no-holds-barred underground weapons market segment, we are formally introduced to Slur's increasingly formidable network and, perhaps even more terrifyingly, the enigmatic and all-powerful group known as The Order. This elite collection of assassins isn't just skilled; they represent the absolute apex of the underworld, operating with a chilling authority that immediately shifts the entire series' tension. No longer are our beloved characters merely dealing with scattered thugs or minor threats; the stakes are now undeniably global, hinting at a vast, interconnected conspiracy that reaches into every dark corner of the assassin world.
This pivotal arc also blesses us with the arrival of Nagumo, a pivotal member of The Order whose presence completely electrifies the screen. He's a fascinating paradox: a figure radiating a playful, almost whimsical, chaotic energy, yet possessing a fighting style that's as deceptively flashy as it is undeniably lethal. Nagumo's combat scenes are a visual feast, characterized by his mastery of disguise, trickery, and an arsenal of transforming, seemingly impossible gadgets that morph from everyday items into deadly weapons. His fluid, unpredictable movements make every encounter a spectacle. More importantly, his brief, loaded interactions with Sakamoto—often just a knowing smirk from Nagumo met with a wary, unreadable silence from Sakamoto—are absolutely dripping with unspoken history and a profound, shared past. Their dynamic hints at a brotherhood forged in the crucible of battle, now complicated by their vastly different paths.
More than anything, this extended sequence brilliantly foreshadows the cataclysmic arrival of the notorious Death Row Convicts and meticulously sets the table for the visceral bloodbath to come. Characters like the unsettlingly cheerful Kumanomi and the brute force of Gaku are either directly involved or subtly hinted at during the JCC exam's chaotic events, building a direct bridge to the impending storm. It's the anime, in its most confident stride, leaning in close and whispering, "You thought this was dangerous? Just you wait. You haven't seen anything yet." The scale, the threats, and the sheer stakes are about to be ratcheted up beyond anything imaginable.
5. Aoi's Flashback: Love, Peace, and the Burden of the Past
Amidst all the jaw-dropping chaos, the lightning-fast action, and the absurd humor, Sakamoto Days possesses a deeply resonant emotional anchor, and that anchor is none other than Sakamoto's wife, Aoi. Right from the very first episode, the series makes an immediate, powerful declaration: the formidable, lean, and utterly ruthless "Sakamoto in his prime" willingly shed his legendary mantle, gained a "dad-bod," and opened a convenience store, all because he fell head over heels in love with her. While Season 1 Part 1 of the anime might offer glimpses rather than extensive, dedicated flashback episodes, the essence of their tender courtship and the weight of his promise to her are established as the absolute bedrock of his new life. These quiet, simple moments of profound connection between them hit harder and resonate more deeply than any explosion or epic fight scene.
This relationship isn't just a plot device; it is the unshakable emotional spine of the entire show. Every single time Sakamoto hesitates, every instinctual twitch towards lethal force that he masterfully suppresses, every impossible feat he performs to protect someone without drawing a drop of blood—it all unequivocally ties back to his sacred vow to Aoi and his profound love for their daughter, Hana. He's not merely trying to survive the onslaught of his past; he is actively, deliberately, and fiercely striving to be a man truly worthy of the beautiful, peaceful life he has painstakingly built. His dedication to this promise forces him to evolve, transforming his deadly skills into tools of precise, non-lethal incapacitation.
The visual contrast between past-Sakamoto (lean, merciless, a true force of nature) and present-Sakamoto (dad-bod, apron-clad, but still impossibly unstoppable) is far more than just a clever visual gag. It is, in fact, the central philosophical point of the entire story: a powerful testament that people possess the profound capacity for change and redemption, yet that transformation doesn't erase the indelible marks of who they once were. His past self is a foundation, but his present choices define him. This ongoing duality provides endless layers of both comedy and heartfelt drama.
And, of course, the truly universal truth: a massive shoutout to Aoi for being the singular, undeniable force in the entire series who can terrify the legendary Sakamoto with a mere glance, a raised eyebrow, or a quiet, disapproving sigh. Surrounded by the world's most dangerous assassins, Sakamoto faces death without flinching. But the thought of disappointing Aoi? That's his real Achilles' heel. It's a running gag that's not only hilarious but also deeply endearing, beautifully illustrating the unique, loving dynamic of their marriage and reinforcing that his greatest strength—and his most vulnerable point—lies entirely with his family.
What to Expect in Sakamoto Days Season 1 Part 2
What We Know So Far
Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and clear your schedule because the wait is officially over! Sakamoto Days Season 1 Part 2 is confirmed to premiere on July 14th, 2025. Yes, that's right – July 14th! It's a direct, seamless continuation, with the powerhouse TMS Entertainment at the helm and the same visionary core staff returning. This means the flawless blend of breathtaking action, razor-sharp comedy, and genuine emotional resonance we've come to adore is guaranteed to hit the ground running, probably with a silent, yet powerful, ricochet off a convenience store shelf.
Promotional teasers are already hinting at an even deeper dive into the escalating, high-stakes conflict with the enigmatic antagonist, Slur, and, perhaps most thrillingly, the full introduction of more prominent members of the elusive, top-tier assassin organization, The Order. The stakes are no longer just personal vendettas; they've become system-wide, threatening the very fabric of the assassin underworld. And speaking of visuals, if you thought Part 1's animation was good, brace yourselves. TMS is clearly dialing up the ambition for Part 2. Expect even sharper choreography, more intricate combat exchanges, and truly jaw-dropping, environment-redefining fight set pieces that utilize every element of the surroundings in ways only Sakamoto Days can. The battles are about to become pure cinematic ecstasy.
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Enter the Death Row Prisoners Arc: A Storm is Brewing
If you thought things were intense by the end of Season 1 Part 1, just wait—Sakamoto Days Season 1 Part 2 is expected to adapt the explosive Death Row Prisoners Arc, which takes the already fast-paced story into even more dangerous territory. This arc sees Sakamoto and crew facing off against a terrifying trio: assassins so dangerous they were locked up for life... until Slur sets them free.
Each of these death row inmates is not only insanely powerful but completely unhinged. We're talking full-on sociopaths with unique fighting styles and zero regard for human life. Slur doesn't unleash them for fun—he wants to test The Order, and more importantly, Sakamoto himself. These new antagonists will force our heroes into battles where they can't hold back, emotionally or physically.
Expect a much darker, more intense tone. But also? Some of the series' best action scenes to date. Think high-stakes brawls in a moving train, calculated mind games, and brutal close-quarters combat. If done right, this arc could take Sakamoto Days from "underrated gem" to mainstream anime juggernaut.Beyond the Bars: Further Unveilings
As the prison chaos subsides, Part 2 will also begin peeling back the layers on Slur, the enigmatic puppet master. We'll start to gain deeper insight into his complex motivations and enigmatic background, which, surprisingly, might evoke a degree of sympathy despite his ruthless actions and radical goals for the assassin world. His ambition isn't just about destruction; it's about tearing down and rebuilding the entire assassin system, driven by a profound, possibly traumatic, past.
This arc also sets the stage for the formal, chilling introduction of Takamura, a legendary, blind master swordsman and a top-tier member of The Order. His brief, devastating appearances are enough to signify an astronomical leap in the power ceiling and hint at the truly insurmountable challenges awaiting Sakamoto. With these high-stakes introductions and revelations, the series' tone is indeed expected to shift slightly darker, embracing more long-form, complex storytelling that delves into the ethics and history of the assassin world. But fear not—the signature humor, razor-sharp comedic timing, and heartfelt character moments that define Sakamoto Days are intrinsically woven into its DNA and aren't going anywhere.
Loose Threads & Intensifying Plotlines
The central, burning question remains: What exactly is Slur's ultimate endgame? His obsession with dismantling the existing assassin world is deeply rooted in a traumatic past, likely tied to the very institutions and figures Sakamoto himself once operated within. His motivations are driven by a deep-seated grievance that will reshape the entire underworld.
And let's talk about the big one: Sakamoto's inevitable "un-retirement." It's less a theory and more an impending reality. The manga constantly pushes Sakamoto to his absolute limits, forcing him to confront the implications of his vow against increasingly overwhelming threats. Expect to see him go toe-to-toe with, and test the very foundations of, powerful members of The Order, hinting at the potential for him to shed more of his peaceful facade. We're also eagerly anticipating the continued evolution of Shin's telepathic abilities—which become even more versatile, impactful, and often hilariously inconvenient—and the deeper unfolding of Lu's personal arc, as she confronts her Triad past and embraces her future. Both characters will receive significant development, stepping up in combat, honing their skills, and solidifying their indispensable roles within Sakamoto's unconventional, yet fiercely loyal, family. They are far too compelling to be sidelined.
Sakamoto Days in the Modern Shonen Landscape
Let's be honest—the current anime landscape is a vibrant battle royale of releases. While giants like Jujutsu Kaisen dominate one season and Chainsaw Man another, Sakamoto Days doesn't just compete; it subtly yet powerfully carves out its own niche. It's the series that quietly strolls in with a rice ball and a deadpan expression, then proceeds to effortlessly outmaneuver and out-charm everyone.
What truly makes Sakamoto Days stand out is its masterful ability to refuse categorization. It's not just a pulse-pounding action series, nor merely a riotous gag manga, nor solely a deeply heartfelt family story. It's all of these, seamlessly woven together, finding a joyful, utterly unique middle ground in a landscape that often leans exclusively into either grimdark nihilism or pure slice-of-life escapism. Its tight pacing and clean character arcs ensure every moment hits its mark.
Final Thoughts: Why I Can't Wait for Part 2
As someone who's followed the manga weekly since its very first chapter, I'll admit to initial nerves about the anime adaptation. But Season 1 Part 1 swiftly won me over completely. The voice cast (especially Matthew Mercer's iconic portrayal of Sakamoto's inner thoughts) nailed the comedic timing, the action direction was consistently thrilling, and the character dynamics were perfectly captured—it was a chef's kiss of an adaptation.
What excites me most about Sakamoto Days Season 1 Part 2 is witnessing how TMS's animation team handles the incredible emotional complexity and sheer kinetic energy of what's coming, particularly within the claustrophobic confines of the Death Row Prison. The arcs ahead are not just intensely action-packed; they're deeply personal, filled with character growth, genuine pain, and, of course, countless more insane, inventively choreographed fights involving umbrellas, screwdrivers, and frying pans.
So, I'll absolutely be there on July 14th, day one—probably rewatching Part 1 in the meantime, laughing again at that universally beloved scene where Sakamoto dodges a hail of bullets with minimal movement, a silent testament to his unmatched skill.
Bring it on, Part 2. We are more than ready.
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