Crunchyroll, a prominent anime streaming service, announced today its acquisition of North American and worldwide distribution rights for the upcoming mystery anime feature film, *The Apothecary Diaries: The Late Lady’s Treasure*. The film’s distribution will be managed collaboratively by Crunchyroll (https://www.crunchyroll.com/) and Sony Pictures Entertainment, with specific release dates to be announced later.
The acquisition marks the first feature film within *The Apothecary Diaries* franchise, based on an original story by series creator Hyuganatsu. The project is directed by Norihiro Naganuma, with animation produced by TOHO Animation STUDIO.
Crunchyroll: Global Distribution and Series Context
Crunchyroll’s distribution rights cover North America and all global territories, with the exception of Asia, but notably include India. This expansion reflects the series’ international appeal, with its broadcast adaptation having premiered its first season in October 2023, followed by a second season in January 2025, and a third season launching on Crunchyroll on October 2, 2026. All three seasons are available for streaming on the platform. The series has sold over 57 million copies globally.
*The Apothecary Diaries* follows Maomao, a young woman with a background in medicine and poisons, who finds herself working as a lowly servant in the emperor’s palace after being kidnapped. Her expertise leads her to solve various medical mysteries and engage with court politics, drawing the attention of Jinshi, a palace official.
Crunchyroll: Film Premise
The upcoming film, *The Apothecary Diaries: The Late Lady’s Treasure*, introduces a new mystery centered on a hidden treasure within a bustling city on the water. The narrative begins with Emperor’s order to Jinshi: to fulfill the final wish of a concubine who died five years prior by returning her to her homeland. During the examination of her unusually preserved remains, Jinshi enlists Maomao’s help, leading them on a journey to Binan-shu, a southern province governed by the Bi clan.
Upon their arrival in the vibrant waterfront city, Maomao encounters new herbs and medicines, while the region experiences heightened tensions due to pirates searching for a hidden treasure. A significant incident unfolds on the day of the concubine’s funeral, initiating a chain of unforeseen events for Maomao and Jinshi.
This development in *The Apothecary Diaries* franchise represents an ongoing trend in the anime industry, bringing popular television series to the big screen. For more on the latest anime industry developments and streaming service news, visit [https://technosports.co.in/](https://technosports.co.in/).
