Common Sense Media Review
Amusing medical drama has drugs, sexy stuff, some violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Apothecary Diaries
What's the Story?
THE APOTHECARY DIARIES tells the story of Maomao (voiced by Emi Lo), a teenage girl and skilled pharmacist, who solves mysteries at the Imperial Palace. After being kidnapped and sold into servitude, Maomao tries to fly under the radar while she serves her time -- but she can't help but intervene when the emperor's infant heirs fall strangely ill. She catches the attention of the influential eunuch, Jinshi (voiced by Kaiji Tang), who promotes her from laundry girl to lady-in-waiting.
Is It Any Good?
This refreshing dramedy anime doesn't have much thematic depth but does have fun characters and creative conflicts. The Apothecary Diaries is historical drama meets Grey's Anatomy but in the style of slice-of-life anime. Each episode offers an interesting whodunit puzzle that embraces the complexity of human emotion, since each culprit usually has compelling reasons for their actions.
Maomao is a strong-willed protagonist whose intelligence and passion are charming, and the people around her are distinctive in their defiance of stereotypes. Jinshi is sweeter than the mysterious heartthrob he pretends to be. Gyokuyou and her attendants are more welcoming than would be expected of high-ranking nobility.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about historical fiction. What parts of the story are based on real-world history? How does the history help us understand the characters' motivations and personal journeys?
How do the characters in the show demonstrate empathy and resilience? Why are these important character traits? How does empathy influence the outcome of each case?
Families can talk about sex, consent, and power structures. What role does consent play in these sexual encounters? How does the show reflect both historical and modern cultural values about sex?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 21, 2023
- Cast : Emi Lo , Kaiji Tang , Alex Hom
- Network : Crunchyroll
- Genre : Anime
- TV rating :
- Last updated : January 4, 2024
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