Get ready for a thrilling ride as Yuuto Suzuki's hit manga, Sakamoto Days, makes its live-action film debut! Slated for an April 29 release in Japan, this highly anticipated movie stars Ren Meguro from the idol group Snow Man as the legendary ex-hitman, Tarō Sakamoto. The film promises an exhilarating blend of action and comedy, bringing to life a unique story that has captivated fans globally. A character promotional video recently dropped, showcasing Meguro's impressive fight choreography and offering a sneak peek at the film's theme song, 'BANG!!', performed by Snow Man themselves. The synergy between Meguro's intense physical performance and Snow Man's energetic track is set to be a major highlight for audiences.
Ren Meguro Embodies the Legendary Sakamoto
Ren Meguro's casting as Tarō Sakamoto is a major talking point. Meguro, a prominent member of Snow Man, reportedly read the original manga years ago and has expressed a deep personal connection to the role. He mentioned taking on this part "for his own sake," suggesting a profound dedication to portraying the nuanced character of a retired assassin now running a local store. The recently released character promotional video offers a compelling glimpse into the film's dynamic action sequences, highlighting Meguro's commitment to delivering impactful fight choreography. The excitement around his performance is further amplified by Snow Man's powerful theme song, "BANG!!," which perfectly encapsulates the film's adrenaline-pumping atmosphere. This combination ensures an immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience.
The Unique Story of a Retired Assassin
The premise of Sakamoto Days is refreshingly original. Tarō Sakamoto was once the underworld's most feared assassin, a figure of awe and dread. His life took an unexpected turn when love entered the picture, leading him to retire, marry, and become a father. This new chapter brought a significant change to his appearance – he gained weight, transforming into a seemingly ordinary, chubby guy who now runs a neighborhood store. However, beneath this genial exterior lies the unparalleled skill and sharp instincts of his former life. The story masterfully blends high-octane action with lighthearted comedy as Sakamoto must secretly protect his family and peaceful existence from the constant threats emerging from his dangerous past. It is an action-comedy that promises both thrilling combat and genuine laughs.
An All-Star Cast and Expert Production Team
The live-action Sakamoto Days film features a stellar cast bringing Suzuki's characters to life. Alongside Ren Meguro, Fumiya Takahashi plays Shin Asakura, Sakamoto's loyal telepathic assistant. Aya Ueto portrays Sakamoto's wife, Aoi Sakamoto, and Miyu Yoshimoto takes on the role of their daughter, Hana Sakamoto, forming the heart of the family unit. Other notable cast members include Mayū Yokota as Lu Shaotang, Junki Tozuka as Heisuke Mashimo, Akihisa Shiono as Kashima, and Keisuke Watanabe as Natsuki Seiba. The formidable Order assassins are brought to life by Takumi Kitamura (Nagumo), Yūsei Yagi (Shishiba), and Meru Nukumi (Osaragi). Directing and writing the script is Yūichi Fukuda, renowned for his work on popular live-action adaptations. Action direction is expertly handled by Keiya Tabuchi, known for his contributions to major titles like Evangelion and Attack on Titan. The film is produced by CREDEUS and Avex Pictures, guaranteeing a high-quality production.
The Ever-Growing Sakamoto Days Universe
The live-action film is a testament to the immense popularity and widespread appeal of the Sakamoto Days franchise. Yuuto Suzuki's original manga, first published in Weekly Shonen Jump in November 2020, is available digitally in English through Viz Media and MANGA Plus, with print editions by Viz. The manga's narrative is currently in its intense "final battle" arc, which began in August 2025. The universe has expanded further with the spinoff manga, Sakamoto Holidays, launched in July 2024, and two novel adaptations released in April 2023 and December 2024. The series also boasts a successful anime adaptation, which premiered on TV Tokyo and Netflix in January 2025, with a second part in July 2025 and a second season already confirmed. Fans can also enjoy a smartphone puzzle game that launched in April 2025. This multi-platform presence underscores the franchise's significant impact and its continued growth, making the live-action film an exciting addition to this beloved world. Don't miss the live-action Sakamoto Days film when it opens on April 29!
