Empire of Corpses (Review)

In an alternate version of 19th century London, the world has been revolutionized by "corpse reanimation technology" creating armies of undead who serve the living as laborers across the globe. In an attempt to revive his dearly departed friend, young medical student John Watson becomes obsessed with replicating the work of Dr. Victor Frankenstein - the legendary corpse engineer whose research produced the only re-animated corpse to possess a soul. But when his illegal experiments put him at odds with the British government, Watson is drafted into a worldwide race to find the lost research notes of Victor Frankenstein before the secrets of the human soul fall into the wrong hands.

Empire of Corpses had a really good first and second act. The beginning and middle of this anime was done very well. As I was watching it I was really immerse with the concept and different take on zombies. I also enjoyed the fact that it took the Frankenstein story and gave us a what if the world had continue what Victor Frankenstein started. In the world of Empire of Corspses the undead are use as laborers for many things such as, soldiers, maids and many more. This world really pulled me in  with it's main protagonist Watson. Watson is very interested on the research by Frankenstein also known as the one. For Watson the research hits close to home because he wants to restore the consciousness of his close friend. I did like Watson's story arc but unfortunately the film suffers from a lot  pacing issues. While the concept of the film is intriguing it suffers from a lot of exposition that makes the film have a lot of scenes that made me feel bored.  Watson main plot kept me interested but I felt turned off when the exposition of the science or rules of the world was being established. This doesn't mean the film is bad but I think with a little better balance would have help the film greatly. Pacing issues aside there is one gripe with the story I have that I won't mention due to spoilers however just pay attention to the 3rd act. The film introduces an element to the story that completely disregards what was established in the first two acts and some typical cliche come into the play.

The story has it problems but it's still has some enjoyment in the film. The Steampunk elements and the animation is beautiful. Visually this is a good anime to see. The voice acting is also well done with J. Michael Tatum, Todd Haberkon, Jason Liebrecht and Morgan Garrett leading the cast. The performances are great in both English and Japanese dubs.. Overall Empire of Corpses is decent but disappointed. It has stellar voice acting and intriguing plot when it focus strictly on Watson and his quest and some good animation. However the exposition and pacing does take you out of the film.

Final Grade - 3 out of 5 Stars