Eavaeh Tiernan

The Apothecary Diaries is an anime with incredible depictions of ancient China including the different dynasties. The anime is pictured in a setting of grace with bright colors shown through flowers and kimonos, but the show represents deeper topics like servitude, a classist society, and public health concerns. With such a heavy background and serious topics, this show is very worth the watch.

A main part of the anime that makes the ancient time period amazing is the character development. The Apothecary Diaries follows a young girl named MaoMao (Aoi Yūki) who developed a sharp intellect in the department of poison and healing. While having such a talent, MaoMao was kidnapped and forced to work as a servient girl like most other girls in the show; though one thing sets her aside: her literacy. 

Having a main character with such a precise background makes the overall plot immensely detailed. The fact of MaoMao being literate permits a strong yet mysterious beginning as Master Jinshi (Takeo Otsuka), a eunuch from the Imperial Palace was able to find the savior of the concubine’s baby. This was possible from the historical background that servant women could not read or write but the savior had that attribute.

The historical drama has a typically slow pacing but can be beneficial as it allows for smaller plots to be run through before the big finish. 

The show just reached a third season and there is no current way to know exactly where the anime is going. The suspense of what could potentially happen is more than enough to keep one interested. 

Art style is a key component in the anime as the choices made for visuals tie everything together. For example, the sophistication of the art style blends perfectly with the expressions on the characters during rough times, and the way the art style changes to something more simple and funny like chibi when there is a joke. Having the characters’ style always matching the tone of the story gives a strong understanding on what and how the characters are truly feeling.

The setting of the show is full of stunning colors that signify wealth, an energetic feeling, and an upbeat tone. 

Surprisingly the music used throughout the show was almost always on par with the setting. Most songs utilized in the story had strong vocals performed by women. These songs also aligned really well with a scene where there is dancing involved as it had to be slow, majestic, and soft to show the value in each concubine. 

This show does have a romantic side hidden under the plot. This historical romance might not be the perfect choice for someone with deep interest in solely romance as it is heavily slow burn with little outcome. Most would like to see more involved and deeper connections throughout the show even when involving friendships. 

As a whole this anime is incredible, especially for a historical show. For anyone familiar with ancient China, someone interested in history, or medicine this show is perfect. Even if history is not a point of interest the plots are thick enough to grab attention and keep it, so giving the anime a thorough watch will definitely be worth the time.can