Episode 5 of Sakamoto Days, titled “Source of Strength,” delivers a mix of action and comedy, while also laying the groundwork for future conflicts. The episode sees Taro Sakamoto confronting his past as an assassin, while his allies face their own challenges. The introduction of The Order, a group of elite assassins, hints at a darker and more dangerous path ahead.
Sakamoto vs. Boiled: A Battle of Ideologies
The episode picks up with Sakamoto facing off against Boiled, a former acquaintance from his assassin days. Boiled’s unique ability to manipulate boiling water makes him a formidable opponent. The fight initially sees Sakamoto struggling, as he is still in his larger, out-of-shape form.
However, as the battle intensifies, Sakamoto recalls his past and the reasons he chose to leave the assassin world behind. This reflection triggers a transformation, and he temporarily regains his former, leaner physique. This transformation is a visual representation of Sakamoto tapping into his past skills and determination.
With his enhanced abilities, Sakamoto gains the upper hand. He defeats Boiled, not through brute force alone, but by appealing to Boiled’s own sense of purpose. Sakamoto argues that he now fights to protect the people he cares about, a motivation that resonates with Boiled.
The fight’s conclusion is not a typical defeat. Instead, Boiled acknowledges Sakamoto’s strength and concedes. This unexpected turn highlights the series’ ability to blend action with moments of understanding and even camaraderie between rivals. After their showdown, Sakamoto buys pork buns and shares one with Boiled.
Lu and Shin vs. Obiguro: An Unlikely Alliance
Meanwhile, Lu, in a drunken state, battles Obiguro, while Shin is held captive by Obiguro’s men. Lu’s unpredictable fighting style and rambling about her connection to Shin and the Sakamoto family confuse Obiguro.
As Lu sobers up, she prepares to strike a serious blow, but Obiguro surprisingly stops the fight. Impressed by Lu’s display of loyalty and strength, Obiguro calls her his rival and declares a truce. This development is perplexing to both Shin and Obiguro’s subordinates.
This unexpected alliance showcases the series’ comedic elements and its tendency to subvert expectations. It also reinforces the theme of found family, as Lu’s drunken ramblings reveal the deep bond she shares with Sakamoto and Shin.
Introduction of The Order: A Looming Threat
One of the most significant developments in Episode 5 is the introduction of The Order, an elite group of assassins. While their full motivations and capabilities remain shrouded in mystery, their presence signals a new level of danger for Sakamoto and his friends.
The Order is investigating a series of assassin-related incidents, suggesting a larger conflict brewing in the underworld. The episode offers glimpses of the Order members through dialogue and brief interactions, establishing them as formidable and enigmatic figures.
The introduction of Nagumo, a member of The Order, adds another layer of complexity. Nagumo is an acquaintance of Sakamoto, and their interaction hints at a shared past and potential future conflict.
The episode also teases the appearance of X, who is implied to be a significant antagonist in the series. The identity and motives of X are currently unknown, but their presence looms large, promising future challenges for Sakamoto.
Anime vs. Manga: Adaptation Differences
As with any adaptation, there are differences between the Sakamoto Days anime and manga. Episode 5 adapts material from Chapter 13 of the manga, with some additions and alterations.
One notable change is the inclusion of Shin coming up with lies to conceal the truth about the assassins from Aoi, Sakamoto’s wife. This addition adds to the comedic elements of the episode and highlights Shin’s resourcefulness.
Some reviews have noted that the anime’s animation quality in Episode 5 is inconsistent, with some scenes feeling rushed or lacking detail. This is particularly evident during the fight between Sakamoto and Boiled, where speed lines and impact frames are used to compensate for a lack of fluid animation.
However, the anime has also been praised for its voice acting, music, and overall faithfulness to the manga’s story and characters. The comedic timing and character interactions are well-executed, capturing the spirit of the source material.
A Mixed Reception
Episode 5 of Sakamoto Days has received mixed reviews from critics and fans. Some have praised the episode’s humor, character development, and introduction of The Order. Others have criticized its pacing, animation quality, and lack of significant plot progression.
Some viewers felt that the fights in this episode weren’t as thrilling, partially due to the background music failing to enhance the action sequences. Additionally, the transformation of enemies into allies, while common in shonen stories, felt somewhat anticlimactic to some viewers, particularly with Obiguro’s sudden change of heart.
Despite these criticisms, the episode is generally seen as a decent installment in the series. It advances the plot, introduces new characters and conflicts, and provides entertaining moments of action and comedy.
Looking Ahead
Episode 5 sets the stage for future developments in Sakamoto Days. The introduction of The Order and the tease of X’s appearance suggest a larger and more dangerous conflict on the horizon.
Sakamoto’s journey to protect his family and maintain his peaceful life will be further complicated by these new threats. The relationships between Sakamoto, Shin, Lu, and other characters will continue to evolve as they face these challenges together.
The series is expected to explore the backstories of The Order members and delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding X. The balance between action, comedy, and heart will likely remain a key element of the series’ appeal.
With a second cours set to release in July 2025, fans can anticipate more exciting developments in the world of Sakamoto Days. The series has the potential to become a long-running and beloved anime, thanks to its unique blend of genres, engaging characters, and intriguing storylines.
