At this year’s Anime Expo, Dorkaholics had the chance to sit down with Director Masaki Watanabe and Producer Genki Ito, the creative team behind the highly anticipated Sakamoto Days anime adaptation. What began as a lighthearted discussion about their childhood inspirations, from Doraemon to Gundam, quickly turned into a deeper exploration of what makes the series so compelling. From Taro Sakamoto’s duality as a loving father and deadly assassin, to the thrilling battles and fan-favorite group known as the Order, this interview offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Sakamoto Days balances humor, heart, and high-octane action, all brought to life through dynamic, hand-drawn animation.
Hi Director Misaki and Producer Genki, it’s a pleasure to meet you. My name is Neil, and I’m from Dorkaholics, where we believe that there’s a dork in everyone and it’s our job to bring that dork out into the world. For my first question, I wanted to ask: What made each of you a dork growing up?
Director Misaki Watanabe: For me, the reason I became one of these dorks is because, as a child, I saw this animated movie, Doraemon, and I was really moved by it. I hoped that I could create something like that one day. That’s basically why I ended up working in this industry.
Producer Genki Ito: For me, it all started in elementary school when I saw the very first Gundam. I immediately fell in love with anime. After that, I started building plastic models. When I began working, I got into gashapon and started my own collection. That’s how it began for me.
Wow, thank you so much for sharing that. Doraemon feels like a very soft, approachable series, while Gundam is known for its action. So I’m curious, when it comes to Sakamoto Days, what is your favorite part about the series?
Director Misaki Watanabe: For me, I just love the characters. Taro Sakamoto is a clerk at a convenience store, and he’s a very sweet dad. But once he fights, he’s extremely strong and watching him beat all these enemies is so exhilarating. I think it’s really entertaining.
Producer Genki Ito: I also like the characters in the show. Sakamoto isn’t your typical cool character, he’s actually quite portly and I think it’s easy for people to feel connected to someone like that. The story itself is also very simple and easy to follow, and it has exciting battle elements as well. Even the manga is easy to read, which makes it very approachable.
What I like most about Sakamoto is that he feels kind of like Batman. He adopts these young people, takes them in, and shows them a better way to live. So I’m curious, who’s your favorite character that’s joined the Sakamoto family?
Director Misaki Watanabe: I really like Shin. He’s a character who grows a lot throughout the series. He’s fun to draw, and portraying him is really enjoyable. He’s such an entertaining character.
Producer Genki Ito: While I do love the Sakamoto family, I actually love the Order, it’s such a cool organization. The director just said I have to say “love,” and yes, I do love the family, but I just really love the Order. There’s so much mystery to them, too.
I love that you brought up the Order, especially since season two is coming up very soon. What can we expect from the Order in the second season of Sakamoto Days?
Director Misaki Watanabe: The animators working on the show are gaining more experience, and their hand-drawn animation has become even more powerful. They’re really improving in how they render action scenes, and I think viewers will see that they’re leveling up. The scenes they’re drawing are very cool, and the finished product is impressive. I hope people look forward to that.
Producer Genki Ito: Season one was all about introducing the characters and meeting new faces. But in season two, we’ll see intense battles. It’s going to be a very different season, one that might even feel like a different show compared to the first. I hope people are excited.
Part 2 of Season 1 of Sakamoto Days is out now on Netflix!
Thanks for reading this article!
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Neil Bui
I'm a self-proclaimed "professional dork." I've always been drawn to the creative and imaginative worlds found in comic books, video games, and other forms of entertainment, and I believe that these stories and characters have the power to inspire and bring people together. Through Dorkaholics, I've had the opportunity to attend conventions, interview some of my favorite artists and creators, and connect with a community of like-minded individuals who share my passion for all things dorky. When I'm not writing about the latest pop culture trends, you can usually find me playing video games, reading comic books, or exploring new fandoms. I'm thrilled to be able to share my love of pop culture with the world through Dorkaholics, and I hope to continue to inspire and entertain fellow dorks for years to come.
English (US) · 