Established in 2009, Section23 is one of five successors to ADV Films; alongside Sentai Filmworks, Switchblade Pictures, Maiden Japan, and AEsir Holdings.

Along with Sentai Filmworks, Switchblade was formed in 2008 and ADV Films also provided initial distribution.

The first release for Maiden Japan was the erotic comedy Papillon Rose as a subtitled DVD collection in 2010.

[13] Kraken is a live-action sister label to Switchblade Pictures and Maiden Japan.

[15] Section23 Films, Sentai Filmworks, Maiden Japan, and AEsir Holdings do not directly release their properties in non–North American (English-speaking) markets as opposed to their predecessor, A.D.