Sakamoto Days, the new anime series, has rapidly ascended the ranks to become a global phenomenon, securing the #2 spot on Netflix worldwide for non-English shows. The series has captivated audiences with its unique blend of action and comedy, proving that anime is a major force in mainstream entertainment. This strong performance marks a significant milestone for the medium.
A Global Streaming Hit
The anime’s impressive performance, during the week of January 13-19, saw it garner 8.6 million views. The show was only surpassed by Squid Game: Season 2, a testament to its widespread popularity. Sakamoto Days also reached the number one position in five countries and ranked within the top 10 in 67 countries, showing its universal appeal. Notably, it even secured the #9 spot for overall shows in the United States, highlighting its broad audience reach and success.
Surpassing Expectations
The show’s performance exceeded expectations, surpassing the premiere record previously held by Baki Hanma with 6 million views. This demonstrates a significant growth in anime viewership on the streaming platform and a growing appetite for diverse animated content. The series quickly made its way into the hearts of viewers globally.
What Makes Sakamoto Days Stand Out
Based on the manga by Yuuto Suzuki, Sakamoto Days tells the story of Taro Sakamoto, a legendary hitman who has retired to live a peaceful life as a convenience store owner. The anime adaptation, produced by TMS Entertainment, perfectly captures the manga’s blend of humor and high-octane action. The series is directed by Masaki Watanabe, with Taku Kishimoto overseeing the script, and Yō Moriyama designing the characters.
Production and Adaptation
The success of Sakamoto Days is attributed to its high production quality, with fans praising the animation and direction. The series expertly adapts the manga’s distinct style and storyline, bringing its memorable characters and action sequences to life. The opening theme song, “Hashire Sakamoto,” performed by Vaundy, and the ending theme song, “Futsū,” by Conton Candy, also contribute to the series’ engaging atmosphere.
A Mix of Action and Comedy
The anime offers a perfect mix of action and comedy, attracting a wide range of viewers. The main character’s transition from a feared assassin to a family man adds a layer of comedic charm to the story, making it both entertaining and relatable. The show’s ability to blend intense action with light-hearted moments has resonated with audiences, contributing to its popularity.
The Impact of Nagumo’s Entry
Although the anime had a slower start, the introduction of the character Nagumo in episode 4, significantly boosted its popularity. Nagumo, an old friend of Sakamoto’s from their time in the mafia, is an intriguing character known for his unpredictable behavior and ability to transform into anyone he pleases. His entry created a buzz among fans, making the show even more engaging. The on-screen dynamic between Sakamoto and Nagumo has been particularly captivating for the viewers.
Fan Reactions
The series has garnered positive reactions and reviews from viewers. Many have praised the quality of the animation, direction and the unique storyline. The show’s initial perception as “mid” has completely changed, with fans expressing their enthusiasm and anticipation for future episodes. The show’s popularity has also translated into high ratings on platforms like IMDb, where it holds a 7.9 rating, with the first episode garnering an even higher rating of 8.1.
Netflix’s Anime Success
Sakamoto Days’s success underscores Netflix’s strategic investment in anime content. The series’ performance demonstrates the platform’s ability to bring popular anime titles to a global audience. It has become the biggest anime premiere since Netflix started reporting weekly figures, surpassing the previous record held by Baki Hanma Season 2. The exclusive streaming rights for Sakamoto Days have clearly paid off, showcasing the platform’s ability to identify and promote hit anime series.
Part 2 Anticipation
With part one of Sakamoto Days generating so much excitement and positive feedback, anticipation is already building for part two, scheduled to be released in July. This further solidifies the show’s status as a must-watch series for anime fans. The promise of more episodes has fueled excitement among the fanbase.
A Testament to Anime’s Global Appeal
Sakamoto Days‘s rise to global prominence highlights the growing popularity of anime in mainstream entertainment. The show’s strong performance on Netflix demonstrates that anime is no longer a niche medium but a widely enjoyed genre across different cultures and regions. Its ability to secure a top spot among all shows on Netflix solidifies its status as a significant hit, appealing to diverse audiences. The anime’s success demonstrates that audiences are ready for more fun and action-packed anime.
