Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Secure Worldwide Rights to Apothecary Diaries Film

Crunchyroll has acquired North American and worldwide rights to the first theatrical feature film in The Apothecary Diaries franchise. Sony Pictures Entertainment will co-distribute the film, which is set for a Japan premiere on December 11, 2026. The worldwide distribution excludes Asia but includes India. The film is titled 'The Apothecary Diaries: The Late Lady’s Treasure.'

Creative team and production background

Norihiro Naganuma directs the film, with animation production handled by TOHO Animation STUDIO. The project is based on the anime adaptation of Natsu Hyuga's light novel series, which is illustrated by Toko Shino.

The series has two manga adaptations. One is written by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage, while the other is written and illustrated by Minoji Kurata. J-Novel Club publishes the novel in English, and Square Enix publishes the manga. The film features a completely new mystery written by the original series creator, Natsu Hyuga.

Plot and narrative elements

The story follows Maomao and Jinshi as they travel to the southern province of Binan-shu. The emperor orders Jinshi to grant the final wish of a concubine who died five years ago by returning her remains to her homeland. Jinshi discovers the concubine’s remains are in pristine condition, appearing as if she were still alive.

Jinshi drags Maomao along on the journey. He says, "I hope nothing happens…" On the day of the concubine’s funeral, a huge incident occurs, triggering a chain of events that nobody could see coming. They arrive at a bustling city on the water, where tensions are high due to pirates viciously trying to find a treasure their late leader hid away. Maomao is excited to see unfamiliar herbs and medicines in Binan-shu.

The official synopsis describes a mystery involving a secret treasure hidden in the city. The narrative will involve pirates, hidden treasures, the secret of the Empress’s remains, and a mysterious boy who holds the key to the story.

Franchise context and availability

The Apothecary Diaries anime premiered in October 2023. It has since expanded rapidly. The franchise recently announced its first live-action series adaptation and its first console game.

Previous seasons of the anime, including their English dubs, are available to stream on Crunchyroll. The third season is currently airing in Japan as part of Nippon TV’s programming block, with its first cour having premiered on October 2. The second cour of the third season is scheduled to begin in April 2027. The season is also available on Crunchyroll in simulcast.

The film was previously announced in October 2025 alongside season 3 of the anime. This expansion follows the growing momentum of the light novel series, which is serialized by Shunfunotomo.

Release information and future updates

The movie will open in theaters in Japan on December 11, 2026. Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment will announce the global release date at a later time. The report advises fans to stay tuned for more announcements about the film’s release.

Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment will announce the release date at a later time.