The Empire of Corpses
The Empire of Corpses

The Empire of Corpses

2015Movie120 minJapanese

The story takes place in 19th century Europe, and revolves around John Watson. He is scouted by the government to become a secret agent. However, Watson lives in a world where "Frankensteins"—human corpses that are re-purposed with a false soul in order to use them as laborers—are used to improve industrial development.

Read Reviews

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Google Users85%
Director: Shukou MuraseGenres: Animation, Action, Drama, Horror, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller

Plot Summary

In an alternate 19th century, the dead have been resurrected as 'corpses' to serve as laborers and soldiers. John Watson, a young medical student, becomes obsessed with uncovering the secrets behind the resurrection technology after a cryptic message from his deceased friend, Victor Frankenstein. His quest leads him through Europe and into a dangerous confrontation with the nascent sentient nature of the corpses.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed to positive reviews, praised for its unique steampunk aesthetic, ambitious world-building, and philosophical themes. However, some critics found the plot convoluted and the pacing uneven, particularly in its latter half.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its imaginative steampunk setting and exploration of consciousness.
  • Appreciated for its mature and philosophical approach to science fiction.
  • Criticized for a somewhat muddled narrative and rushed conclusion.

Google audience: Audiences generally enjoyed the film's dark, intricate world and thought-provoking premise, finding it a unique take on classic literature. Some viewers found the story complex and occasionally hard to follow.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the posthumously published novel of the same name by Project Itoh, a renowned Japanese science fiction author.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review