"The Pharmacist's Monologue" Review: An addictive palace pharmacy drama

"The Pharmacist's Monologue": The Fascinating World of History and Poisons

"The Apothecary Diaries" is a TV anime series that aired on the Nippon Television Network from October 22, 2023 to March 24, 2024. It is based on a light novel by Natsu Hinata and published by Shufu no Tomo Infos. The story is set in a fictional empire modeled after ancient China, and follows the protagonist as he uses his knowledge and insight as a pharmacist to solve cases. The series is directed by Norihiro Naganuma, animated by TOHO animation STUDIO and OLM, and produced by the "The Apothecary Diaries" Production Committee.

story

The story of "The Apothecary Diaries" begins when the protagonist, Maomao, is sold to the harem. She lives in the harem while hiding her talent as a pharmacist, but one day, when she cures an illness of Gyokuyo, a concubine of the emperor, her talent is recognized and she begins working as a pharmacist. Maomao explores her own past and her relationship with her family while solving various incidents and mysteries that occur in the harem.

The appeal of this work lies in the mystery set against the backdrop of ancient Chinese culture and customs, and the storytelling woven together by Maomao's sharp insight and knowledge. The human drama unfolding in the closed space of the harem, skillfully combined with knowledge of poisons and medicinal herbs, has the power to draw viewers in.

character

Maomao

The main character, Neko Neko, is a girl with talent as a pharmacist. She has a calm and rational personality, and uses her deep knowledge of poisons and medicinal herbs to solve various incidents that occur in the harem. Neko Neko's character is deepened through her past and relationships with her family, evoking sympathy from the viewer.

Gyokuyo (celebratory celestial leaf)

Gyokuyo, a concubine of the emperor, recognizes Nekoneko's talent and welcomes her into the harem as a pharmacist. Gyokuyo is a kind and intelligent woman, and is depicted growing through her relationship with Nekoneko. Her character plays an important role in depicting the political maneuvering and human relationships in the harem.

Emperor

The Emperor is the highest-ranking figure in the harem and highly values ​​Maomao's talent. His character is portrayed as a complex being, combining the dignity of a powerful man with the fragility of a human being. The Emperor's actions and decisions have a major impact on the development of the story.

Animation and Music

The animation for "The Apothecary Diaries" was produced by TOHO animation STUDIO and OLM. The ancient Chinese landscapes and the luxurious interiors of the harem are beautifully depicted, adding to the visual appeal of the work as a whole. In addition, the characters' expressions and movements are also meticulously expressed, effectively conveying the emotional parts of the story.

The music is a good balance of beautiful melodies that evoke the atmosphere of ancient China and dramatic pieces that heighten the tension. In particular, the music in the scenes where Maomao solves the case has the effect of heightening the excitement of the viewer.

Ratings and Recommendations

"The Apothecary Diaries" is a unique and fascinating work that combines mystery and historical drama. The character of Maomao and her sharp insight, as well as the storytelling based on the culture and customs of ancient China, have the power to draw viewers in. In addition, the animation and music are of high quality, making this a work that is visually and aurally appealing.

Here are some reasons why I recommend this film:

• A fusion of mystery and historical drama: A mystery set in a fictional empire modeled on ancient China will provide viewers with fresh surprises.
• The appeal of the main character: Neko Neko's calmness and knowledge, as well as her growth through her past and relationships with her family, resonate with the viewer.
• Gorgeous Animation and Music: Beautiful animation of ancient Chinese landscapes and interiors of the harem, combined with atmospheric music, provides a visual and auditory treat.

Highly recommended for fans of mysteries and historical dramas, and for those who enjoy beautiful animation and music, The Apothecary Diaries is a fascinating read that will immerse you in the fascinating world of ancient China as you follow Maomao's adventures and growth.

Additional Information

The original work of "The Apothecary Diaries" is a light novel series written by Natsu Hinata and published by Shufu no Tomo Infos. The original work is still ongoing and follows the adventures and growth of Nekoneko. Fans of the original work have expressed their hopes that the anime adaptation will help make the work known to even more people.

The anime series consists of 24 episodes, each of which lasts 30 minutes. It was broadcast on the Nippon Television Network in a late-night slot starting at 1:05. The copyright of the anime belongs to Natsu Hinata, Shufu no Tomo Infos, and the "Pharmacist's Monologue" Production Committee.

"The Apothecary's Notes" is a unique work that combines mystery and historical drama, and the character of Maomao and her sharp insight, as well as the storytelling against the backdrop of ancient Chinese culture and customs, have the power to draw viewers in. The animation and music are also of high quality, making this a work that is visually and aurally appealing. The reasons for recommending this work can be summed up in three points: the combination of mystery and historical drama, the charm of the main character, and the beautiful animation and music. Highly recommended for those who like mysteries and historical dramas, and those who want to enjoy beautiful animation and music. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of ancient China as you follow Maomao's adventures and growth.