Series & First Appearance
Sakamoto is a character from the anime and manga series "Nichijou" (translated as "My Ordinary Life"), created by Keiichi Arawi. He first appears in episode 1 of the anime adaptation, released in 2011 by Kyoto Animation. The series is celebrated for its unique humor and whimsical storytelling, which is complemented by Sakamoto’s feline charm.
Profile at a Glance
Sakamoto is a black cat with a scarf crafted by the character known as the Professor, which gives him the ability to speak. He is theoretically older than his companions, Nano and the Professor, when converting his age from cat years to human years. Sakamoto often regards them with a condescending tone and insists on being called “Sakamoto-san.” Despite his sophisticated demeanor, he occasionally succumbs to typical cat behaviors.
Personality & Motivations
Sakamoto displays traits of arrogance and superiority, often looking down on Nano and the Professor due to his self-proclaimed elder status. He exhibits high intelligence and a sardonic wit, often peppering his speech with condescension. Despite this, he has a softer side that occasionally surfaces, revealing his desires and fears, particularly regarding his past with Nakamura. His primary motivation is to avoid returning to her, as he believes he was poorly taken care of despite her good intentions.
Abilities / Powers
Sakamoto’s main ability comes from the scarf made by the Professor, which grants him the power of human speech, allowing him to articulate complex thoughts. While he is adept at expressing opinions and sarcasm, he also possesses typical feline traits such as agility, stealth, and a knack for finding cozy resting spots. His powers do not evolve significantly throughout the series, but his relatable cat-like characteristics enhance the comedic aspects of the show.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Key plot points for Sakamoto include his backstory, which reveals that he used to belong to Nakamura, whom he refers to by her last name. This connection is crucial to understanding his reluctance to return to her, as it highlights the differences in their personalities and care styles. As the series progresses, viewers appreciate Sakamoto’s struggles between his high opinion of himself and the reality of being a pet, leading to comedic and poignant moments.
Notable Relationships
- Nano: Though he often treats her dismissively, their relationship creates an intriguing dynamic where Sakamoto occasionally influences Nano’s understanding of the world beyond her mechanical existence.
- The Professor: Shares a bond with the inventor who created the scarf, and often acts as a voice of reason or sarcasm against her eccentricities.
- Nakamura (Former Owner): Sakamoto’s complex feelings towards Nakamura form a significant part of his character arc, showcasing both the affection a pet can have and the disappointment when left uncared for.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Sakamoto’s memorable moments occurs when he articulately mocks the chaotic events surrounding him, often leading to humorous contradictions in a serious situation. For example, during an odd interaction with Nano, he quips about the ridiculousness of their current predicament, highlighting his tendency towards sarcasm.
Another notable scene is when he laments his past with Nakamura, revealing a layered emotional depth that resonates with fans. Such moments allow for a deeper connection with viewers who appreciate the subtlety between humor and heartfelt storytelling.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Sakamoto is voiced by the talented Japanese actor Kōsuke Toriumi, who brings a nuanced performance that combines arrogance with humor.
- In the English-dubbed version, he is voiced by Michael Sinterniklaas, ensuring that his character retains a humorous yet sophisticated vibe.
- The popularity of "Nichijou" led to Sakamoto becoming a favorite among fans, often appearing in related merchandise and fan art, with 2,794 favorites logged on various anime databases.
- The character reflects cultural beliefs regarding cats in Japan, often seen as symbols of good fortune, which adds layers to his desires for autonomy and respect.
Through his unique blend of humor, intriguing backstory, and memorable personality, Sakamoto remains a beloved figure within the whimsical world of "Nichijou," appealing to both cat lovers and anime enthusiasts alike.
