Netflix Has Found the Next John Wick And We Can Prove It

5 hours ago 8

Netflix might have just stumbled upon its next big action phenomenon, and it comes in the form of the fan-favorite manga, now anime, Sakamoto Days. With the recent buzz surrounding a fan-made poster by @Val_Escher on X depicting Taro Sakamoto encircled by an arsenal of guns, very similar to the iconic John Wick promotional poster, it is clear that fans see a major connection between the two action-packed series. Given Netflix’s growing interest in anime adaptations, this could be the perfect opportunity to introduce audiences to a thrilling new franchise that captures the essence of John Wick while having a unique and hilarious twist.

The parallels between John Wick and Sakamoto Days go beyond this epic poster. Both focus on legendary assassins trying to leave behind their violent pasts, only to be pulled back into action. With stylish combat sequences, enjoyable protagonists, and strong emotional motivation, Sakamoto Days has all the makings of the next John Wick, and Netflix needs to start promoting it as such.

Sakamoto Days' Lead Hero Becomes John Wick in Incredible New Fan Poster

This Fan Art Proves Sakamoto Is the Next Wick

Recently, an eye-catching fan-made poster of Sakamoto Days was created, showing Taro Sakamoto surrounded by an array of guns, mirroring one of John Wick's most famous promotional images. The homage is more than just a visual treat, it highlights the thematic and stylistic similarities between the two characters. Both Wick and Sakamoto are depicted as lone warriors with countless enemies, relying on their insane combat skills to survive impossible situations.

Sakamoto in a flashback

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The fan-made poster captures the idea of what makes both iconic characters so compelling. While Wick’s brooding intensity is contrasted by Sakamoto’s unassuming, dad-bod exterior, both men carry an air of deadly precision that is terrifying. This side-by-side comparison only fuels the idea that Sakamoto Days is the next John Wick-type series, in anime form.

Why Sakamoto Days Is the Perfect John Wick Successor

A Retired Assassin’s Worst Nightmare

The story parallels between Sakamoto Days and John Wick are undeniable. Both follow legendary assassins who attempt to live normal lives, Wick after the loss of his wife, and Sakamoto after falling in love and starting a family. However, neither can escape their past, as enemies old and new continuously drag them back into the underworld they tried to leave behind. This balance between high-octane action and personal stakes makes both stories binge-worthy.

Sakamoto Days' anime also has a unique twist on the assassin trope, by being full of comedic moments and having an unconventional protagonist. Unlike Wick’s sleek and composed demeanor, Sakamoto is a seemingly unremarkable convenience store owner with a dad bod, until he snaps into action and fights. This combination of comedy and brutal fight choreography makes Sakamoto Days a fresh and exciting addition to the assassin genre, giving Netflix the perfect John Wick-level hit with a unique anime spin.

Sakamoto Days Anime Poster
Sakamoto Days

Release Date January 11, 2025

  • Cast Placeholder Image

    Matthew Mercer

    Taro Sakamoto

  • Headshot Of Dallas Liu In The 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards
  • Cast Placeholder Image

    Rosalie Chiang

    Lu Shaotang

  • Headshot of Rosie Okumura

    Rosie Okumura

    Aoi Sakamoto

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