At the end of World War 2, the Japanese experiment on Chinese and Russian prisoners of war in Unit 731 to develop bacterial plagues.

A historical film shot through the exploitation lens so graphic violence takes precedence over strict accuracy.

It’s well shot, well acted and has great special effects.

But with fare like this, it does become more about extremities and trying to gross out the audience as much as possible. I’m glad I chose not to eat whilst watching this.

I also draw the line at scenes that involve kids. The vivisection episode is vile, as is the scene in which children are slapped across the face.

After a while it becomes hollow and the whole film feels somewhat sterile.

Am I glad I watched it just the once? Yes. Would I watch it again? No.

2 out of 5 stars