The Apothecary Diaries Movie: Bouhi no Hihou Unveils Staff, Cast, and December Premiere
The highly anticipated cinematic debut for The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) anime series has officially revealed its key production details. Fans can mark their calendars for December 11, as the movie, titled Bouhi no Hihou (The Secret Treasure of the Deceased Consort), is set to open in Japanese theaters, promising a new chapter in Maomao's captivating investigations.
New Talent Joins the Imperial Court
The film's cast expands with the addition of acclaimed voice actress Mariya Ise. Known for her memorable roles, including Ray in Yakusoku no Neverland, Ise steps into the world of the imperial court as the voice of Mu Qing. Her addition is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the series' beloved ensemble.
A Stellar Production Team Assembles
The movie boasts a robust production staff, blending returning talents with new industry veterans to bring Bouhi no Hihou to life. Norihiro Naganuma, recognized for his work on Mahoutsukai no Yome, takes the helm as Director. Yuuko Kakihara, known for scripting Ao no Hako, handles the screenplay. Character Design and Chief Animation Direction duties fall to Yukiko Nakatani, who previously worked on One Piece: Episode of Luffy - Hand Island no Bouken. Misato Aida, of Fujimoto Tatsuki 17-26 fame, is in charge of Color Design, while Daisuke Imai (Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri) manages Editing, and Shouji Hata (Sousou no Frieren) directs the Sound. The musical score is a collaboration by Satoru Kousaki (Bakemonogatari), Kevin Penkin (Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari), and Alisa Okehazama (Jujutsu Kaisen), promising an evocative soundscape.
Several new talents are joining the production in significant roles:
- Art Director: Masakazu Miyake (Mushoku Tensei: Isekai Ittara Honki Dasu)
- Art Boards: Takumi Tanji (Kimi no Na Wa. art director) and TJ (Summer Ghost art)
- CG Producer: Masaya Machida (Chou Kaguya-hime! CG director)
- Director of Photography: Atsushi Takeyama (Hellsing)
- Distribution: TOHO
The movie is produced by TOHO animation STUDIO, with OLM also credited for the series production.
Building on a Successful Legacy
The cinematic venture follows the widespread success of The Apothecary Diaries anime series. The first season premiered in Fall 2023, followed by a second season in Winter 2025, each comprising 24 episodes. Crunchyroll has been instrumental in bringing Maomao's adventures to a global audience, streaming the anime with both subtitles and dubs in various languages, with the exception of Asia.
The Ever-Expanding World of Maomao
The beloved narrative originates from Hyuuga's web novel, which began on the Shousetsuka ni Narou website in October 2011. Shufunotomo later began publishing the novel under its Hero Bunko imprint in August 2014, featuring illustrations by Touko Shino. The 16th volume was released in May 2025.
The series has also inspired two distinct manga adaptations. The first, illustrated by Nekokurage, started serialization in Big Gangan in May 2017. Square Enix published its 16th volume in November 2025, with the 17th volume slated for July 24. A second manga adaptation, by Minoji Kurata, began in Sunday Gene-X in August 2017, with Shogakukan releasing its 22nd volume on June 18.
International audiences can delve into the source material through J-Novel Club, which licensed the light novel for digital English release in November 2020, publishing the 16th volume on May 29. Square Enix handles the English release of the Nekokurage manga adaptation, starting its license in November 2019 and releasing the 15th volume on March 17.
With a strong foundation in its acclaimed anime series and celebrated source material, The Apothecary Diaries movie, Bouhi no Hihou, is poised to be a must-see event for fans worldwide. The combination of established talent and fresh perspectives promises a visually stunning and narratively rich experience.
