Sakamoto Days episode 9, titled “All Aboard,” delivers a thrilling conclusion to the Lab arc, packed with intense battles, comedic moments, and the debut of the enigmatic Slur. The episode, which adapts chapters 28 to 31 of Yuto Suzuki’s manga, sees Sakamoto facing off against Kashima, while Shin and Heisuke team up against Seba.
Sakamoto vs. Kashima: A Battle on the Rails
The episode kicks off with Sakamoto and Kashima engaged in a fierce battle. Kashima reveals that the lab’s work is meant to revolutionize the assassin industry, but Sakamoto dismisses his concerns. As the fight intensifies, Kashima boasts about his body being 70% weaponry, while Sakamoto cleverly uses everyday items like a discount coupon and a mechanical pencil to combat him. The battle culminates on a subway train, where Sakamoto ultimately defeats Kashima.
Hilarious and Outrageous Antics
The fight between Sakamoto and Kashima is not only action-packed but also filled with hilarious and outrageous moments. Sakamoto’s ability to use seemingly harmless objects as weapons and his transformation into a skinny version of himself during the fight add to the comedic absurdity.
Flashback Reveals Kashima’s Connection to Slur
During the fight, a flashback reveals Kashima’s past and his first encounter with Slur. Kashima, ostracized for his killings, finds acceptance in Slur, who becomes his mentor. In the present, Kashima declares his loyalty to Slur and his willingness to fight anyone who stands in his way.
Shin and Heisuke vs. Seba: Teamwork Triumphs
Meanwhile, Shin and Heisuke face off against Seba, who uses an invisibility suit to gain an advantage. Heisuke’s sharpshooting skills are put to the test as he tries to locate the invisible Seba. Through clever teamwork, Heisuke shoots a fire sprinkler, exposing Seba’s location and allowing Shin to defeat him.
Heisuke’s Ingenuity and Shin’s Growth
The fight showcases Heisuke’s ingenuity and resourcefulness, as well as Shin’s growth as a fighter. Shin thanks Heisuke for his help, highlighting the strengthening bonds between the characters.
The Aftermath: Reunions and a Glimpse of the Future
After the battles, the team reunites with Lu and helps everyone escape the self-destructing lab. Shin has an emotional reunion with Asakura, a figure from his past connected to the research conducted at the facility. Asakura entrusts Shin’s care to Sakamoto’s group.
Slur’s Ominous Debut
During the evacuation, Shin has a brief encounter with a mysterious figure, Slur, who tells him to give his regards to Sakamoto. This encounter sets up intriguing future storylines and suggests a deeper connection between Slur and Sakamoto.
Back to Normal?
The episode concludes with the group back at Sakamoto’s store, returning to their normal lives. However, the encounter with Slur and the mysteries surrounding the lab suggest that their peaceful days may soon be disrupted.
Production and Reception
Episode 9 has been praised for its animation, action sequences, and comedic moments. Critics have noted that the episode stays faithful to the manga while enhancing key moments for a more immersive experience. The voice cast has also been lauded for their stellar performances. Some fans have pointed out minor flaws in the plot, such as Lu’s limited role in the episode, but overall, the episode has been well-received.
Expert Opinion
Masaki Watanabe directs the Sakamoto Days anime, with Taku Kishimoto handling the scripts, Yō Moriyama designing the characters, and Yuki Hayashi composing the music. TMS Entertainment produces the animation. This team has delivered a high-quality adaptation of Yuto Suzuki’s manga, capturing the action, humor, and heart of the source material.
