The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 is making waves in the anime industry with its engaging storyline and well-thought-out characters. Even though this series does not come from a popular genre like Shonen, it is still enjoying unprecedented fame because of its genuinely good material.
One of the key aspects that make this anime so special is how realistic and relevant its characters feel. They are not the usual stock personalities we find in every show, and this is exactly where the magic of the series director, Akinori Fudesaka, comes into play.
In a recent interview, Fudesaka became candid about his goals and intentions for the second season and how he managed to portray the characters as genuinely as possible.
Akinori Fudesaka’s approach to realism in The Apothecary Diaries‘ Season 2
The first thing that attracts viewers to The Apothecary Diaries is its relatable characters, even though they are imaginary and live in a time of the past. The society is feudalistic, and we primarily witness the lives of royalty and the people of the Rear Palace. However, many of the problems they face are also common in our world.
The director, Akinori Fudesaka, made it his goal to understand the complex world of this story and portray it to the audience in a way that they themselves get transported there. In an interview conducted by Mantan Web, Fudesaka stated,
This is something I’m particular about when making an anime, but I try to express that the characters really live in that world and that each of them has their own life.
He has definitely become successful in his representation, as not once does it feel like Maomao, Jinshi, or others are just mere characters who exist in a story.
Maomao’s apprehension to accept Jinshi’s feelings is understandable because there exists a huge social disparity between them. Had things been smooth sailing or quickly progressing for them, their bond would have felt unrealistic and unconvincing.
The director also uses tools like camera angles, backgrounds, and colors to evoke that sense of realism from the anime. A great example of this is the use of dark shades to portray Lady Anshi’s hatred when the Empress Dowager and the previous Emperor meet her.
The Apothecary Diaries‘ profound world-building and emotional depth
The Apothecary Diaries‘ storytelling is one of its strongest feats effectively showcasing the intense world behind the closed doors of the palace. All the nasty secrets and ruthless politics that go on behind the glamour of royalty are very charmingly displayed here.
Maomao, as a protagonist, is also unconventional because, unlike others, she does not focus any attention on herself. Rather than seeing her, we mostly see the world through her eyes and witness her escapades.
On top of that, there is just a touch of romance within the narrative, which is subtle but elevates the story to new heights. In between all the conspiracies and social dynamics, Maomao and Jinshi’s slow-paced affection becomes the only respite for the viewers to enjoy.
Director Fudesaka definitely became more than successful in his quest to create a world that really exists. He has managed to form an unbreakable connection not only among the characters but also between the story and its audience.
Watch The Apothecary Diaries on Crunchyroll.
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