The mystery-solving sensation is evolving into real life! It has been officially announced that Natsu Hyuga’s hit novel series "The Apothecary Diaries" (published by Hero Bunko / Imagica Infos) will be adapted into a live-action drama. The series is set to premiere as a worldwide exclusive on Prime Video in 2028.
Along with the announcement, it was revealed that the actress Mana Ashida will take on the lead role of Maomao. A teaser visual has also been unveiled, accompanied by enthusiastic comments from the cast and creative team.
<The following content is quoted from the official announcement>
Live-Action Drama Adaptation Confirmed for 2028!
"The Apothecary Diaries" is a captivating tale set in the inner court of a fictional empire. It follows Maomao, a young woman raised in the red-light district, who uses her extensive knowledge of pharmacology and her razor-sharp observation skills to unravel the mysteries and conspiracies swirling within the imperial court.
Originally published by Hero Bunko (Imagica Infos), this mega-hit light novel series has surpassed a staggering 57 million copies in circulation worldwide. The anime adaptation, which began airing in 2023, has become a global phenomenon, resonating with fans far beyond Japan. With its blend of pharmaceutical mystery and delicate human drama set against a backdrop of opulence and intrigue, the series has earned massive support across all generations.
This project is the culmination of a long-awaited effort to bring the charm of this world to life in a high-scale live-action format.
A New Vision for "The Apothecary Diaries" Co-Produced with Toho
This production is a collaborative effort between Toho—the powerhouse behind the "The Apothecary Diaries" anime series—and Amazon MGM Studios.
By combining the expertise of Toho, known for high-profile live-action hits like "Godzilla Minus One" (Winner of the 96th Academy Award® for Best Visual Effects), with the global reach of Prime Video, which delivers content to over 240 countries and territories, a massive production framework has been established. No compromises were made in recreating the grand scale of the inner palace.
To ensure the highest standards in production design, costumes, and VFX, filming took place over six months on a massive set that completely recreated the world of the inner palace. This series, crafted by Japan’s top-tier production talent, is ready to be shared with the world.
Teaser Visual Unveiled!
Playing the lead role of Maomao is the acclaimed actress Mana Ashida. Maomao is an eccentric girl with an obsession for medicines and poisons, yet she possesses the brilliance to solve the inner court's most complex incidents. While she often appears detached and aloof, she displays a fierce will when protecting those she cares about—a multifaceted charm that has won the hearts of fans everywhere.
Mana Ashida first captured the spotlight at age five in the drama "Mother" (2010) and took her first leading role in "Marumo no Okite" (2011). She made her Hollywood debut in "Pacific Rim" (2013). Her recent accolades include the Newcomer Award at the 47th Elan d'or Awards for "Metamorphosis" (2022), Best Supporting Actress at the 117th Television Drama Academy Awards for "The Greatest Teacher" (2023), and the Outstanding Supporting Actress award at the 48th Japan Academy Film Prize for "Cells at Work!" (2024).
As an actress who continues to expand her range with every passing year, Ashida will take on the challenge of portraying Maomao’s intelligence, inner strength, and her strangely endearing, reckless curiosity.
In the newly released teaser visual, Maomao’s eyes are intentionally hidden. The focus remains on her firm expression and her dignified stance as she holds a handkerchief. For fans of the original work, this image is sure to evoke memories of a certain iconic scene from the early chapters of the story.
Set in the inner court where beauty masks dangerous schemes, one girl stands against the darkness armed only with her knowledge of poison and medicine. This beloved story is being reborn. Stay tuned for more updates on this grand live-action project!
Comments from the Cast and Creators
Mana Ashida (Lead Actress, role of Maomao)
I have been a huge fan of the original novels for a long time, so I felt a lot of pressure stepping into such a beloved work. However, working alongside a cast and staff who respect the source material so deeply and obsess over every detail has been wonderful. We poured all our love for Maomao and this world into every moment of filming.
There were many times during the shoot where my own "inner fan" would get excited, and I could feel my heart racing. I would be so happy if both long-time fans and newcomers alike could share in this excitement. I hope you all look forward to the release!
Natsu Hyuga (Original Author of "The Apothecary Diaries")
A live-action adaptation? We’ve really come a long way, haven't we? It feels so far reaching, and since novels and live-action are different mediums, I felt it was best to leave it in the hands of the experts. Every single person involved in the production has done a magnificent job, and I am truly grateful.
When Mana Ashida was cast as Maomao, I thought, "Ah, I can breathe easy now." When I actually met her, I thought, "That’s Maomao right there!" I visited the set a few times, and seeing the incredibly luxurious sets and costumes made me think about nothing but how much money this must have cost (laughs).
From the script and props to hair, makeup, and even the coaching for etiquette and walking—every aspect shows such dedication. I believe the final product will satisfy everyone.
On a side note, when I took my niece to visit the set, the actor playing Jinshi was there. My niece was smiling from ear to ear. I had to quietly cover her eyes, thinking, "If she gets used to looking at someone this handsome, her standards will be ruined!" He really was the real-life Jinshi.
Buddy Marini (Head of Japan Branch, Amazon MGM Studios)
A young girl solving mysteries with pharmaceutical knowledge in the glamorous yet dangerous world of the inner palace—this story, which blends mystery and realistic human drama, has attracted people worldwide regardless of genre.
I am confident that we can deliver a new visual experience that will satisfy both original fans and those discovering it for the first time. Please look forward to what we have created with Toho.
Hisashi Usui (Executive Officer, Movie Planning, Toho Co., Ltd.)
Natsu Hyuga’s beloved story, Mana Ashida’s peerless presence as Maomao, the passion of Director Yuki Saito and screenwriter Erika Yoshida, and the uncompromising vision of Amazon MGM Studios... all these elements came together to make this possible. Toho makes more than just Godzilla, you know! (laughs).
Please look forward to the world of the inner palace, meticulously crafted by the film industry's top staff, and the performances of the star-studded cast that we will be announcing soon.
"The Apothecary Diaries" Live-Action Series Information
Streaming worldwide exclusively on Prime Video in 2028.
Staff
Original Story: Natsu Hyuga, "The Apothecary Diaries" (Hero Bunko / Imagica Infos)
Director: Yuki Saito
Screenplay: Erika Yoshida
Production: Amazon MGM Studios / Toho
Production Company: TOHO Studios
Cast
Mana Ashida
Others.
(C)2028 Amazon Content Services LLC or its Affiliates and TOHO CO., LTD.
© Animate Times
*Some parts of this text have been translated using machine translation
