Tasteless_Critic_Takes

This episode reminded me, and many others, of the episode from the previous season which had half the internet tearing up. Now, I will preface this by saying this didn't make me cry like the last one did. But by no means was the emotion forced or absent from the episode.

I think, ultimately, the show doesn't want to fully humanise the character involved yet, but they still do a really good job of making a 10 minute story which seems to justify the actions and make us understand the reasoning of a character pretty flawlessly. This is why this is a good episode: we see, once again, reasoning, emotion, and the process of the yokai breaking down into something else entirely, but rather than previous instance of a tearjerker when the structure was - see the yokai in action, beat it, then backstory it, this spirit does the opposite. I think this helps to keep the plot movement feeling fresh, natural and not repetitive, else the structure of the show would be oversimplified.

More than anything though, this was the most disturbing // harrowing episode of Dandadan yet. There are some MAJOR TRIGGER WARNINGS we should be aware of before watching this episode - if you're sensitive about suicide, DO NOT WATCH THIS EPISODE. That's a serious thing, not a spoiler. This episode genuinely shocked me with how morbid it actually was.

I hope this arc continues to improve as it has done between the first too episodes - this was a real step up from the reintroduction from the plot, but the structure of the season has worked excellently to compensate for the absence of this wonderful show in the past few months.

9/10 - I love this show.

As much as I was annoyed that Dandadan took a break and was just waiting for its return, I am glad to say it was worth waiting.

This was a typical episode for Dandadan, with its weird plotline, great visuals, and humour back on full display. It completely re-established the vibe in 20 minutes and brought me straight back to the story.

Jiji seems to have integrated, to some degree, into the story, and I'm hoping the hate for him will not return with the show. Aira missing feels a bit odd after she was seemingly going to be introduced as a key part of the plot, but I'm sure she'll return later.

Overall, I can't even state too much about the episode, but it was a solid and well-made one. That's enough for me.

8/10. Necessary but I don't feel like it was exceptional enough for a higher rating.

Was written by a woman! Big surprise. Maybe it actually takes a woman themselves to write such compelling female characters with female protagonists.

The title "Apothecary Diaries" does not immediately scream entertainment, I must admit, but rest assured, this show both fulfils its title and also extends the story beyond the limits of simple quackery. The show takes place in a feudal empire, clearly in the east, which bears much similarity to late medieval China, but is undoubtedly a fictional world with no resemblance to a real scenario, as is made clear. Nevertheless while technically in this sense, a work of fantasy, the Apothecary Diaries boasts an excellent range of medical and herbal knowledge which makes it interesting from a worldbuilding perspective. Taking place in the confines of the Rear Palace, the show prides itself on constructing both a political hierarchy of Eunuchs and Concubines, but also an encyclopaedia of early medicine. The show takes a mystery approach to medicine, and uses theories of science to direct the plot effortlessly and without the need for extended buildup. This allows the show to maintain a consistent plot of smaller "mystery of the day" scenarios which all collide into one larger picture which paints itself into the story.

All while doing this, a well-built, compelling and engaging plot, the show excels at character writing. Maomao being one of the freshest protagonists I've ever seen, the show layers the protagonist excellently in such a multi-faceted way that explaining it all would be impossible. Maomao has a strong set of ideals on her medical practice, which make her firm, ruthless, and at times cold, but also ultimately wants the best for all the people around her. Her love for seemingly, gruesome, "unfeminine" hobbies, such as foraging, poison-tasting and medicine procurement (hang, on these are just downright odd in general) contrasts well with her intellect and compassion which really perfectly understands just why a female character is so much more compelling for this story. Tackling ideas such as gender roles in a feudal society with a tactful realism, there is clear acknowledgment of Maomao's limited influence as a woman, however the overcoming of these limitations through her ability to adapt to her circumstances makes her a far more endearing character. As well as Maomao, Jinshi, Gaoshun and the Consorts are well-written, deeply emotionally rooted characters, and the slower pace allows for an incredible exploration of their own motivations in parallel to Maomao's herself. This effort, attentiveness to detail and character building is vital, along with the incredibly detailed artwork and character design, which understands well how to create memorable looking characters (sometimes understated, but vital for a show's success) to immerse the watcher in an overall incredible story which leaves numerous questions while resolving others throughout the plot.

While many may believe my rating is somewhat extreme for what is a relatively simple show which comes with less of an allegory and more of a general sense of morality, I believe it is the simple, clear message conveyed on the importance of goodheartedness, acting in certainty and caution, and being unafraid to challenge others which makes the Apothecary Diaries so distinctive and clear in its message. While not a bold statement or incredible life changing show, it is an excellent work of fiction and potentially the best thing I have ever watched from a personal enjoyment standpoint.

10/10. My personal favourite which I could not recommend more.