Princess Principal: Crown Handler – Chapter 3

In the increasingly diverse fabric of Japanese animation, “Crown Handler Chapter 3” emerges as a crucial chapter in the “Princess Principal” film saga. This third episode, part of a series of six films, continues to weave the complex plot of espionage and court intrigue that has already fascinated fans of the first two chapters.

Released in Japanese theaters on April 7, 2023, “Crown Handler Chapter 3” dives into the tumultuous waters of Albion's succession to the throne. With the death of Prince Edward, first in line of succession, a conflict opens between Princess Mary, second in line, and Prince Richard, Duke of Arkham and third pretender. Tensions rise when the Duke of Normandy enters the game, suggesting impactful political moves.

The film stands out for its ability to intertwine the delicate political situation with the personal dynamics of the characters. Princess Mary finds herself crushed by the weight of expectations, while the Duke of Arkham, revealed as the instigator of Edward's assassination, tries to manipulate events in his favor. In this scenario, Team White Pigeon, led by Ange and Dorothy, are assigned to infiltrate the princess's ladies-in-waiting to investigate the royal family's situation.

The film develops like an intricate game of chess, where every move can be fatal. The direction of “Crown Handler Chapter 3” maintains a tight pace, alternating moments of tension with action scenes, all embellished with graphics that respect the distinctive style of the series.

The “Princess Principal” series, known for its deep immersion in themes of espionage and power struggles, continues to explore these elements with a narrative maturity that satisfies longtime fans and new viewers alike. The third chapter is no exception, offering a gripping story that delves into the darkest depths of Albion politics.

For anime fans and those looking for a work that combines action and political reflection, “Crown Handler Chapter 3” represents an unmissable experience. The film is a clear example of how animation can be a vehicle for complex and mature stories, capable of involving and stimulating the viewer on multiple levels.

Data Sheet

• Original title: プリンセス・プリンシパル クラウンハンドラー
• Romanized title: Purinsesu Purinshiparu: Kuraun Handorā
• Regia: Masaki Tachibana
• Film script: Noboru Kimura
• Production:
  • Toshikazu Sugimoto
  • Kazuyoshi Nishikawa
  • Yoshinori Hasegawa
  • Hirotaka Kaneko
  • Yōhei HataC1
  • Yoko BabaC1
  • Kōsuke SatōC2 C3
  • Hirohito SakemiC2 C3
  • Jin TsuchihashiC3
• Main Cast:
  • Aoi Kōga
  • Akira sekine
  • Yō Taichi
  • akari kageyama
  • Nozomi Furuki
• Direction of Photography: Yu Wakabayashi
• Editor: Gō Sadamatsu
• Music: Yuki Kajiura
• Production House: Actas
• Distribution: Showgate
• Release Dates:
  • February 11, 2021 (Chapter 1)
  • September 23, 2021 (Chapter 2)
  • April 7, 2023 (Chapter 3)
• Total Duration (3 films): 169 minutes
• Country: Japan
• Language: Japanese
• Box Office receipts (for the first 2 films): US$1.8 million