I was given some movie viewing homework and I’m nothing if not a good student. First on the list is a truly horrible and fantastic musical that ranks with the likes of Rocky Horror: Repo! The Genetic Opera.

First it feels like a cult classic for a new generation of viewers. The cast is filled with both classically trained actors and musicians like Anthony Head and Sarah Brightman; as well as newbs who must have felt empowered by the material and simply wanted to be apart of the project.

If like myself you hadn’t heard of it, let me give you the run down. The film takes place in a futuristic dystopian society in the year 2056 where debt is on the rise to pay for surgeries both cosmetic and life-saving. An epidemic of organ failures devastates the world. The company GeneCo saves lives, by offering transplants on payment plans. If however, you can’t pay your loans, the Repo Man will find you and take back what you bought (eyes, lungs, heart, face, etc.) regardless of your life. This, of course, is just the basics. There’s quite a bit more involved, in the story including murder, love, betrayal, and of course, lots and lots of macabre goth riddled punk references.

If the low production value bugs you then the music won’t. My understanding is that this film received very little financing and was made on the backs of passion. It’s gory but sends a strong message about addiction. I can imagine my 17-year-old self-loving this film an insane amount. My 33-year-old self already does. This will require many repeat viewing without question. I’ve already downloaded the soundtrack and added the movie to my Halloween must watch list. I hear that much like a live viewing of Rocky Horror, you can find a live viewing of Repo! particularly in October. Check it out if you love things like Rocky Horror or Sweeney Todd this might be right up your alley.