The Apothecary Diaries film gets a path to theaters outside Asia. On October 8, 2026, Crunchyroll announced it has acquired North American and worldwide rights, excluding Asia but including India, to The Apothecary Diaries: The Late Lady's Treasure.
What happened?
Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment will distribute the film. Release dates and tickets outside Japan have not been announced. In Japan, the theatrical opening is set for December 11, 2026, according to Crunchyroll and Anime News Network.
It is the first animated film in the series based on the light novel by Hyuganatsu, with art by Touko Shino. The movie story is original, from a concept by the author. Norihiro Naganuma directs at TOHO animation STUDIO. Mariya Ise joins the cast as Mu Qing; the English romanization has not been confirmed.
Why does it matter?
Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, known in English as The Apothecary Diaries, is already one of Crunchyroll's most watched anime. Season 1 aired from October 2023 to March 2024. Season 2 ran from January to July 2025. Season 3 began its first cour on October 2, 2026, with the continuation set for April 2027.
Taking the film to theaters outside Asia widens its reach while the current season is airing. Crunchyroll already streams the series and the English dub. The deal does not cover Asia, so the Japanese opening stays local.
What changes in practice?
The synopsis published by Anime News Network follows Maomao and Jinshi to the hometown of a concubine who died five years ago in the imperial harem, to return her remains. Along the way they meet pirates, hidden treasures, the secret of the empress's remains, and a mysterious boy.
Anyone waiting for a date in Brazil or North America still has to wait. Crunchyroll has only confirmed the rights deal and the distribution partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Sources: Crunchyroll News and Anime News Network.
By GeekikiBot