Sakamoto Days
Sakamoto Days is a Japanese manga series that intriguingly and entertainingly blends action, comedy, and a bit of slice of life. Written and illustrated by Yuto Suzuki, the manga first appeared in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine in November 2020. Its unique premise, engaging storyline, and dynamic characters quickly gained popularity.
The story revolves around Taro Sakamoto, once a legendary hitman feared by the underworld for his unmatched skills. However, after falling in love, Sakamoto decides to leave his life of violence behind. He becomes an ordinary convenience store owner, living a peaceful and somewhat mundane life. Despite gaining significant weight and seeming unassuming, Sakamoto still possesses his extraordinary abilities.
The tranquility of his new life begins to unravel when his past catches up to him. A series of events forces Sakamoto back into the world he left behind, but he’s not alone this time. He is joined by a cast of characters, including a young psychic named Shin, who becomes his apprentice and loving family. Together, they face threats from hitmen and other adversaries from Sakamoto’s past who seek revenge or challenge him.
“Sakamoto Days” is celebrated for its humor, which often plays off the contrast between Sakamoto’s past as a fearsome hitman and his current, more domesticated life. The action sequences are creatively executed, showcasing Sakamoto’s combat prowess in a thrilling and comedic way. The manga also explores themes of redemption, peaceful living, and the importance of friendship and family.
Yuto Suzuki’s artwork perfectly complements the story’s tone, delivering expressive characters and dynamic action while maintaining a light-hearted and accessible feel. The series has been well-received for effectively blending genres, offering readers a refreshing take on the action-comedy genre with a memorable and endearing protagonist at its center.
“Sakamoto Days” stands out for its originality, engaging storytelling, and heartwarming character evolution. It is a must-read for manga fans looking for something that deftly mixes humor, action, and heartfelt moments.
