As the leaves begin to turn, Crunchyroll fans have something new to look forward to: the English dub of The Apothecary Diaries second season. Set to stream this Friday, the announcement has anime enthusiasts buzzing with excitement. This enchanting anime, adapted from Natsu Hyūga and Touko Shino’s beloved light novel series, spins a tale of palace intrigue and unexpected alliances.
The Voices Behind the Magic
Returning cast members join the second season, ready to breathe life into the richly woven tapestry of characters. Leading the charge is director Shawn Gann, whose vision is brought to fruition by producer Susie Nixon. Clayton Browning is back, crafting the adaptation with finesse, while William Dewell ensures the mix hits all the right notes. August Cline returns to engineer a seamless auditory experience.
The anime debuted on January 10 on Nippon TV’s FRIDAY ANIME NIGHT. It’s set to run for two consecutive cours, while Crunchyroll hosts the streaming duties. The addition of Asami Seto as the maid Shisui adds depth to the already stellar cast.
Musical Melodies Setting the Tone
Music, the heartbeat of any anime, receives a fresh infusion with Lilas Ikuta performing her first-ever anime-opening theme song, "Hyakkaryōran" (Splendid Bounty). Known to many as the VOASOBI unit’s vocalist ikura, Ikuta embarks on a solo journey with this new track. Meanwhile, singer-songwriter Dai Hirai crafts a soulful closing with "Shiawase no Recipe" (The Recipe for Happiness).
Since October 2023, fans have been captivated by the palace drama unfolding in The Apothecary Diaries. The story is set in a land ruled by an emperor and narrated through the eyes of Maomao, a clever girl whose pharmaceutical prowess is her secret weapon. Her newfound life shifts when she crosses paths with Jinshi, a perceptive palace eunuch. Grasping her potential, he entrusts her as a food-taster for the Emperor’s beloved consort.
A Journey from Page to Screen
The journey from novel to screen reflects a seamless collaboration of artistic visionaries. Norihiro Naganuma led the first season with a unique flair, supported by TOHO animation and OLM studios. Various renowned contributors joined hands in transforming Hyūga’s words into an on-screen spectacle.
Originating in 2011, Hyūga’s story captured hearts with its serialization on "Shōsetsuka ni Narō." The transition to print started in 2014, enriched with Shino’s illustrations. The narrative’s allure expanded further into a manga, launched in Square Enix’s Monthly Big Gangan magazine in 2017.
The magic continues through Square Enix Manga & Books, now publishing the manga and novels in English. Fans eagerly await the fourth volume, slated for release in February.
Enthusiastic Fans Await
Will the animated retelling capture Maomao’s sharp intellect and palace intrigue as the novels did? With a powerhouse team of artists and voice actors, The Apothecary Diaries promises to enchant both new viewers and returning fans with its intricate storyline and dynamic characters.
So, mark your calendars for the English dub’s release on Crunchyroll, and prepare to be whisked away into a world where secrets and serums intertwine. The Apothecary Diaries enchants anew, offering a fresh dose of drama and delight.
Read this article and more at August Tales Comics. Your go-to site for trade paperback exchanges and comic book news! Trade. Read. Repeat.
#comics #comicbooks #graphicnovel #graphicnovels #augusttales
Image credit: www.animenewsnetwork.com
