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Posted By: xfearbefore at 9:38pm, December 30, 2008
Awful. Simply AWFUL. Were you guys watching the same movie I was, or are you all 15 year olds who think eyelner and studded belts are serious forms of rebellion?
First off, the music is awful. It's actually beyond awful. Imagine you've just walked into a Hot Topic to the sounds of bland, generic nu-metal drivel, and you have an idea of what the music in this film is like.
Next, the directing. Bousman isn't an awful director, but he's not very good either. The editing is partly to blame, but a large portion of the film plays out like a quick-cut MTV music video.
The acting was decent, but not good by any mean. A few of the characters were mildly interesting, but overall, you find yourself not interested at all at what the future holds for these paper-thin characters.
The plot starts off as a good idea, but all of the minor characters and subplots take that idea and accomplish nothing with it. That's not always a bad thin either, as long as the ride itself is atleast entertaining. Unfortunately, it isn't.
How all of this hype has gone to this movie is absurd. Every scene, every song just absolutely SCREAMS "Look at how edgy this is! Isn't this edgy and hip you guys?!". It's beyond pretentious and takes itself so seriously that I found myself laughing hysterically at the more "serious" moments.
The only people I'd recommend this to would be fans of nu-metal drivel like Disturbed or Evanessence, or people who want to waste their money.
Never has a movie so hyped disappointed me so epically. If you enjoy a quality movie with good acting or directing, avoid this movie like the plague.
Posted By: Horror_Luva at 9:12pm, December 18, 2008
This movie was amazing.
Posted By: Mr. Willson at 11:35pm, December 10, 2008
Had no doubts I would enjoy it and needless to say I'm gonna buy 42872837 copies of the DVD when it comes out. *lol* I recommend seeing this if you can. It's worth it. :)
Big finger of shame to LGF for not showing this film any love. They lost a lotta points in my book.
LOVED this one.. I'm up for another viewing when it comes back to Seattle, for sure! Me and a carload of people, bring it back here!
I've been a big fan of this type of thing for years, and thought the genre was dead, but they've brought it back to life, and some. Thanks guys.
And you're all so NICE, too. In the best kind of way.
Posted By: Scalpel Slut at 7:13pm, November 19, 2008
I was lucky to to get a ticket to Repo! The Genetic Opera! Despite what Lionsgate films may think, there is an audience for this film and the tickets for the Road Tour sold out in every theatre, and at a rapid pace. The number of people I saw dressed up was impressive, it was almost like being at a convention- it was awesome! I can't imagine how Darren Lynn Bousman and Terrance Zdunich were feeling.
The music in the movie that was also used in the musical was an improvement as far as sound. There were a few numbers that I wish were included in the movie like "Come Up and Try My New Parts" which is going to be in the DVD. But, the cast was extremely talented and had amazing voices as well as acting talent. Although, Sarah Brightman is no amateur.
It really says something about this movie that Sarah Brightman, who has been approached for movie roles on many occasions, chose to make her debut in this film. Also, Paul Sorvino, who is rarely seen i films outside of the mob scene had the chance to show off his amazing operatic vocals and prove that he is capable of portraying someone other than a mob father. He did a damn good job! I'd like to see him play in a larger variety of roles.
I couldn't have been happier with the film, but there was one part in particular that just amazed me. During the song "Thankless Job" the audience gets to experience the Repo man in all his glory. As he toys with his victim he breaks out into song and dance. He waltzes! As he slices open his victim and pulls out his stomach and intestines, he is singing and dancing around the room. By the time he ripped out the guys heart and stuck his arm up through his throat to use him as a puppet, I was in tears! It was so sick and twisted...But SO fun!!!
I want to start out by saying I LOVED this movie. I had been hearing the hype for over a year and kept following because it sounded more and more interesting. When the REPO Road Tour finally happened I was excited to see Kansas City on the list. (I didn’t find out until a week before KC is Darren Bousman’s hometown) There have been several movies, High Tension and the Machinist come to mind, that I’ve have heard hype for and wound up being disappointed in, so I was still hesitant. I picked up the soundtrack a week before the showing anyway, and was surprised that I loved it all by itself.
So now going into the movie I was extremely excited and it DID NOT disappoint. The songs were all great, the effects/ look was as realistic as you could hope for in a sci-fi movie, the gore is gory but only when it was needed, not just there to shock people, and it was a heartwarming, but sad story. It almost had a Shakespearian type feel to it. I have now been listening to the soundtrack daily and am DYING to see this again. My only real negatives are that the song “Seventeen”, while a good song, feels a little out of place in the movie, especially the way it was shot, and at first I was worried it would have a music video feel to it. The first few scenes jump to several different shots while the character is singing the same note (ex sitting at the end of the hall, walking down the hall, looking out the window, all in the coarse of two or three words) but that stops very early in the movie and the camera stays back and lets the performers perform. By the end, those little nit picking things do nothing to diminish an AMAZING movie experience.
This is probably a rambling review, but I can’t express how pleased I was with this movie and I can’t recommend it highly enough. The soundtrack can stand alone, the movie, if it was just spoken, I think would be great, but together they make the most uniquely wonderful movies I’ve seen in a long time, maybe ever.
I went to the Orlando Florida show of Repo! two nights ago and loved it. I didn't know what to expect going into it but I respected Darren Bousman as a Director enough to check it out. Not only was the movie really well done it has some of the catchiest music I've ever heard. I downloaded the soundtrack off iTunes the second I got home.
Once the movie was over, the experience got even better. Darren Bousman the Director and Terrance Zdunich the Writer/Composer/Actor/& Animator for the movie did a Q&A with the crowd which all loved the movie as well. They mentioned how many struggles they're having getting a theatrical release of this movie. If you get the chance you need to check this movie out in the theaters. It's great! They did mention they're doing a Repo! Road Tour 2 so make sure you go and check it out. It's awesome! Thanks Darren and Terrance for sharing your very original/none mainstream/not another crappy Michael Bay popcorn movie with Orlando. I loved it.
Posted By: Miamimaniacs at 10:36pm, November 17, 2008
I saw this film today at a private screening at the Film Directors Film school called Full Sail University and it was a true engauging experience. It was a true triumph for the director of the Saw series as I was extremely impressed by his stretch of his directing chops. It was brilliant it it's look and the story is amazing. I know all the reviews you read on this film keep repeating "Original, Original,..." but there is a reason, IT"S TRUE. Wow a true piece of celluloid art as this film is destinied to grow and appreciate over time. Bousman is here to stay and the writer Zdunich is a huge hollywood gem. All I can say is wow!! Go see this great film and know certain key elements before; 1- It is not a musical, key word being Opera 2- It is not a Horror, this film has heart, it's funny, and will keep you talking for days afterwards 3- It is not the Rocky Horror Picture Show, it sets it's own unique path and needs to be appreciated as such. This Bousman guy is a great, undervalued Hollywood force that has created a great work here that is geneuis! A wild ride that plays every note right on point and a true event to see. This is no Hype Machine like Blair Witch it truly is a great american film that elevates films at a time that needs a good Jolt!! Thank you and thank you Lionsgate for keeping great minds at work in this truly fading with originality industry of remake after remake.
Wow. This movie totally took me by surprise. The first few things i have seen for it looked to be one of those horribly bad but enjoyable films. and the more i watched the trailers the more i got into it until it was all i could think about.
well fast forward to the show in kc as apart of the repo road tour with darren and terrance in attendance and i knew i was in for a treat.
Honestly there is nothing like this thats out there you cant really compare it to anything. its original its unique and powerful.
The cast was perfect for it and was very eclectic who thought we would ever see Paris Hilton share screen time with Bill Mosley, but it worked. i loved Paris in this as Amanda Sweet. i mean you cant go wrong with this.
this is probably a horrible review but it was amazing and really is breathtakign you cant really describe the experience but it is surely the most original film i have ever seen.
The REPO! website offers a clear glimpse into the movie with their high quality video clips and sound. If you haven't seen this film yet, visit www.repo-opera.com to check it over.
I am spellbound by this film, it's gorey but has an excellent, emotional story and humor to prop it all up. I left the theater at 3am (midnight screening), bouncing down the sidewalk with more energy than I went in with. Truly electrifying.
Because of it's opera nature, this film's soundtrack will take your mind's eye back to the film. I loved this op'ra sh*t.
I have to say, I have never anticipated a movie quite so fervently as I had Repo: The Genetic Opera.
I was not disappointed when I finally got to see the end product. From the beginning when The first version of zydrate anatomy was released with Shawnee Smith, to the final product that is the movie, everything was awesome. There needs to be more horror films out there like Repo, ones that don't take themselves so terribly serious.
I love the saw franchise to death, but I think it has lost it's way. Saw originally was this gritty indie film that was original and had balls, and Repo is carrying on the tradition of Saw. Even though the films aren't perfect, and there's room for improvement, I wouldn't change a single thing, because that's what I LOVE about them. I love films that are imperfect but have heart and vision. I'll take that over a thousand Jhonny Depp films.
I had the privlage of meeting Darren Bousman and Terrance Zdunich after the show, and they are so kind to their fans. It warms my heart to know that they care about fans, and that they want Repo to succeed against the odds. Also, Terrance's hair is super soft, I couldn't stop myself from gushing over it XD
Posted By: Heather1987 at 10:22pm, November 15, 2008
This movie was breathtaking. For such a limited budget, and limited amount of time, this movie really did a lot with such these aforementioned problems. It's CG was cool as hell, the singing was pretty top notch, and the visuals and colors were very beautiful. I loved this movie. Sure, its not for everyone. But there IS an audience for it. I witnessed it last night. People can say "Only Goth Freaks" or "Saw Fans" will love this movie, but I saw, with my own two eyes, older people, middle aged people, and those "goth freaks" all walk into the theater with enthusiasm, and walk out with smiles on their faces.
This film isn't perfect, and you can blame the limited amount of time and money. BUT you have to give it an unyielding amount of credit for being original, complex, and fun. If you didn't at least laugh once or twice, you might as well go back to watching some boring drama, or action packed "thrill" ride.
I even told the director this Darren Bousman this, the people who call this movie "The Worst Film of the Year, if not all time" have obviously NEVER watched a film by Uwe Boll, Paul WS Anderson, or Ed Wood. Enough said.
In any case, I will support this movie for what it is, not what i wanted it to be. :)
it isnt very often that i am completely blown away by a film. repo blew me away, and 2 hours later i still cant comprehend what i just witnessed, i never take the time to actually write what i think about a movie becuase every movie i have seen recently is just rehashed recycled garbage, with a lack of originality.
this was one of the most original movies i have seen in a long time, the amount of talent that was involved was incredible, even paris hilton had me for this.
as far as the story goes you have to remember that the key word in the title is OPERA, it is not a sing and dance musical, and that might turn some people off. its funny, dark and most importantly a classic operatic tragedy.
i attended the road show in pittsburgh and would like to add that Boussman and Zdunich are two of the nicest guys i have had the pleasure of meeting and briefly talking with.
this movie needs to get out into major theaters, i urge you to see this if you get the chance, bring your friends, your parents, spread the word of this movie...i never fully support a movie to this extent, but this one is worth it.
I saw Repo last night at the KC road tour showing (it was a four hour trip). It blew my mind. I have been waiting for this to come out for so long and it was well worth the wait. It leaves you wanting more and singing along. I will be waiting impatiently for it to come out on DVD to add to my collection. We also got the chance to meet Darren Lynn Boussman and Terrance Zdunich, and both are amazingly nice guys, signing autographs and taking pictures. The artwork was great, the singing was beautiful, and the "puppet" scene made me laugh so hard I cried!
I went to the Chicago showing the other night and this is such a dark colorful morbidly fun movie. It’s so original that I can see why some people don’t like. You have to be a certain person to love this movie. But don’t bash it until you've tried it. My friend a semi preppy music major was not sold when I dragged her to go see. After seeing though, she was impressed and is now a Repo! freak.
Also the critics’ trashing the singing and acting is bull. As an audience member you can tell that everyone working on Repo! was emotionally involved; it’s a feeling that you won’t feel in any major box office movie.
If you’re able to see it, go and see it.
Posted By: kahlovedrepo at 1:48am, November 12, 2008
I saw repo in Portland. Wish I had bought tickets for Seattle too!! The story, artwork, music, everything was great. For someone who grew up with nightmare on elm st, halloween, ect. this new movie was a breath of fresh air for us gore freaks! I loved it!!
k in Kelso
Picture a future in which surgery is a necessity for some and a career for others. A world exists where the industries of health and science have become greedy an obsessed with offering perfection at high cost. Sound familiar? The world of Repo! The Genetic Opera may not be as futuristic and far-fetched as its creators intended. Whether this is good or bad becomes irrelevant as the audience is carried into a fantasy world richly designed by co-creators Darren Smith and Terrance Zdunich. The gore-factor of film and dark tone certainly appeals to fans of director Darren Lynn Bousman’s previous works (the Saw films). At its core the plot gives unique homage to classic Baroque era opera, blending campy humor with the exploration of a young heroine’s tragic quest.<p>
In the year 2056 GeneCo has developed a way to provide refuge from the global outbreak of organ failure. They monopolize the provision of necessary transplants and addictive painkillers. Soon the people become addicted to the process of surgery and the appeal of having more/better features than anyone else. Average men and women become drug addicts and “scalpel sluts”. The surgeries go from needs to wants creating a society of individuals spending beyond their means for a superfluous breast augmentation or a face lift while GeneCo reaps the benefits of those willing to pay the high price. However, if you fail to make payments, the Repo Man will repossess your organs. <p>
Terrance Zdunich stars as a grave robbing drug dealer acts as a narrator who guides the audience through the evolution of GeneCo. The plot focuses on young Shilo (Alexa Vega), the daughter of Dr. Nathan Wallace (Anthony Stewart Head), who was born with a rare blood disease. When the founder of GeneCo, Rotti Largo (Paul Sorvino) is diagnosed with a terminal illness he begins searching for the heir to his fortune. His own children disappoint him and he has little time to find a suitable replacement. Paris Hilton is Amber Sweet, a spoiled heiress and veritable parody of the typical media portrayal Hilton’s personal life. “Amber Sweet is addicted to the knife”, the grave robber informs Shilo in one of the films most memorable musical numbers (Zydrate Anatomy). Amber and her brothers Pavi (Ogre from Skinny Puppy) and Luigi (Bill Moseley) constantly clash over who is to inherit GeneCo. <p>
The film boasts a unique cast, ranging from newcomers such as Zdunich to seasoned horror veterans like Bill Moseley. One of the films greatest strengths and weaknesses is the addition of stage diva Sarah Brightman. Her performance is incredible but the role is lacking in screen time for talent of her magnitude. Audiences can expect the unexpected when viewing musical talent such as Brightman and Skinny Puppy’s Nivek Ogre. Many of the films musical numbers bring to mind acts such as Tom Waits and Lacuna Coil. Music producer Joseph Bishara used a wide range of session musicians to accomplish a sound unlike any other movie musical of our time. Repo! elbows its way into the horror and sci-fi genres as an excellent example of inspired work. <p>
This movie has been compared to the likes of cult classics such as Rocky Horror Picture Show because of its underground favor. It’s not hard to see why if you’ve been to a screening. The audience participation encouraged by the cast and crew reinforces the relationship not typically seen between a film’s creators and its target demographic. Director Darren Lynn Bousman encourages participants to get out and talk about the film, whether they liked it or not. Fans of horror, science fiction, and musical theater can appreciate the film for its ingenuity and refreshing story. Repo! The Genetic Opera offers audiences a break from the standard Hollywood cat scare tripe offered up in the fall season. <p>
The success of the film seems largely dependent on an active message board and fan-based marketing. With the increased popularity of viral marketing campaigns emerging from late 90’s independent horror film The Blair Witch Project, it’s interesting to see advertisement controlled primarily by the films fan base. It is easier to measure the success of a film when its popularity is not falsified by big budget advertising. After viewing a screening audience members should feel inspired to spread the word and hopefully garner a national release for the film. If nothing else viewers will at least go home knowing they’ve never seen anything like it before.
Posted By: FADED PAGAN at 5:41am, November 11, 2008
I have seen the movie 3 nights in a row if I had a ride I would probably go every night until they stop showing it. Everything about this movie is amazing.Of coarse there are going to be people who don't like it as it is with every movie. But to put it down the way I have seen on here is sad to me. Just cause you do not like it does not mean everyone will feel the same. I had been waiting for ever for this movie to come out and when it did I got even more than I expected. So to any one who has not seen the movie yet please go see it and have and opinion of your own. I am guessing you will like it.
I was so excited for this movie that I went out to Pasadena opening night with 3 of my friends who are also horror buffs. The concept sounds so out there and great, a futuristic horror musical. Unfortunately we all left the theater underwhelmed.
The plot is simple enough, there's an organ repo man in dystopian future. It's a musical, so it's just as cheesy and campy as you expect. The problem is it's just not really executed well.
- Much of the talent in the movie is underutilized. Ogre from Skinny Puppy barely sings, and Sarah Brightman has one song.
- Tony Head seems to carry most of the load singing, and he does a good job. The problem is (with all the songs) is that the songs are just....forgettable. People compare this to RHPS, but there's no song in this that people are going to remember after the fact (ie: timewarp or sweet transvestite)...the songs are just generic showtunes.
- The Shilo character seems to just talk back to someone singing in way too many of the songs. It was annoying.
- Someone else mentioned it, but why was the graverobber character in the movie? What was he, a narrator? There was a narrator too, and comic strip narration...how much narrative do we need?
- The plot isn't anything special
As a horror movie, this fails. It's not particularly suspenseful or gory. As a dramatic film, it fails miserably. It's cheesy, campy, and the characters are all underdeveloped. As a musical, it's just ok. It has musical numbers, but the songs just aren't that entertaining. I see people clamoring to sing along, but the only song I can remember from 2 days ago is that "in the opera tonight" and I don't particularly like it.
It seems like this movie tries to be everything at once and while it does it fails at all 3. I liked DLBs work on Saw 2 and 3, and I thought the idea of a horror musical was great. But this movie failed my expectactions and everyone else in my group too. I also heard comments outside the theater and in the restroom to the effect of "that movie fucking sucked". However, there were quite a few people who clappped every time a song came on (I'm guessing some of them wrote the reviews here)
As far as how it did, the Pasadena theater was about half full for the 10PM show on opening night. I doubt it'll make it to a wide release.
Repo! The Genetic Opera
Review-University of Maryland Prescreening
"So Good The Audience Applauded!"
First off, I will come clean and admit that I do not like musicals. Regardless, I can not remember a time that I was in a theater and heard an applause after a film. This was an exception for Repo! The Genetic Opera. It was evident before the film started that people were excited. I overheard discussions about the soundtrack, which were all positive while in line. This is impressive when considering that the film has recieved little if any promotion from its film company. It seems that it has been too long since there has been a movie made for a creative minded audience who wants more than a film, an experience. I kid you not, people were dressed up for this event!
I had brought a friend to come see the film, mind you, she primarily listens to rap and I on the other hand listen to mostly classical music. My favorite movie has always been Titanic, so it is no surprise that I would be nervous when the movie started that I wouldn't like it. A Rock Opera? How good could that Be? Boy was I wrong!
I have heard people describe the movie as a mix between Blade Runner and Rocky Horror. Well I have never seen Blade Runner and quite frankly, thought Rocky Horror was just wierd. I think the beauty of Repo!, is that it seems to appeal to a much larger audience. I do think that Rocky Horror fans would die to see this film though. I mean, they are probably getting tired of the same film decade after decade. Repo! has something new to offer, as well as great actors, camera work, MUSIC, and a great story. The film is the child of Darren Lynn Bousman, the creator of the SAW movies, and he really outdid himself this time.
It is very difficult to say much about the movie without spoiling it other than a few points. The film takes place in the not too distant future where organ failure becomes an epidemic. A company (Geneco) sells organs and surgical procedures with a payment plan. If you can't make the payment, the Repo Man comes to take your organs back! Yea, awesome right?! I would say this movie is more like a mix of SAW and Phantom of the Opera, with a kick of humor which was totally unexpected. There were times where you would be rocking out to the catchy music, closing your eyes from the gory scenes, or laughing your ass off! Remember that rap loving friend? She loved it too!
Although I enjoyed ALL the music and acting in the movie, I was particularly impressed with Sarah Brightman who portrayed the character "Blind Mag", an opera singer with genetically implanted eyes. The woman can act, sing and captivate an audience. The cast also included Paris Hilton, Paul Sorvino, Bill Moseley, and Alexa Vega to name a few.
If you are debating over whether or not you should see it, SEE IT. If you are debating over whether or not you should buy it, BUY IT. Let's just say I'm not so sure Titanic is my favorite movie anymore.
Sahand Miraminy
Posted By: Little Lotte at 3:03am, November 10, 2008
There are many things that one might think of when they hear the words "Repo! The Genetic Opera" Let me tell you that after seeing this film, I can attest that everything you might think you know is incorrect.
I have been following the film since its sneak peak in Comic Con. Going into the film I had already spoken with the creators, heard the soundtrack, reviewed the 10-minute opera that inspired it, and yet this film still managed to catch me completely off guard with its plot's twists and turns, it's characters, it's ambiance.
The intricacies of the storyline flow flawlessly through a world of surgery and drug addiction, of broken hearts and dreams, of character flaws and severely disturbed individuals. The cast was impeccable at capturing the details of their character's conflicts while expressing themselves with out most finesse through music.
This film is, quite frankly, an epic culmination cinematic art. Everything from the sets, the special effects, the story, the music, the actors, the conflict development, and the wardrobe is perfect. Everybody behind Repo! The Genetic Opera worked extremely hard for it, and it shows.
Don't like horror movies? Go see it.
Hate Paris Hilton? Go see it.
Don't like musicals? Go see it.
The plot confuses you? Go see it.
Don't like gore? Go see it.
Repo has something to appeal to everybody. As I wandered outside the theater, I realized what a diverse crowd this movie is bringing. Everyone from elder Sarah Brightman enthusiasts, to angsty teenagers in love with Skinny Puppy, to socialite-wannabes adoring Paris Hilton congregated to enjoy this film, and boy is it something to enjoy!
In short, don't shun Repo! The Genetic Opera. Whatever prejudice or preconception you have of this movie I assure you will change once you see it.
Hit the 10:45 show Friday in Manhattan, packed house. Didn't notice any costumed adventurers but saw plenty of our type of people.
I'd say 50% were VERY into it. The other 50% were liking it but probably not the type who'd been following it as intensely for months and months... Definitely got a good response though. Many laughs, some sang along to 'Zydrate' and there was plenty of toe tapping and head bobbing. We had four douches who talked through the first 20 minutes and then finally either ran out of things to say or got sucked in and just enjoyed it. I'm not sure if they made it tough for me to get into the first 20 minutes or if it was the film, though I will see it again and find out.. oddly it did take me a little while to sink into its vibe, but I did.
General thoughts...this film, along with Trick R Treat were probably the most aesthetically exciting films I saw ths year. If I could live in two worlds visually, it'd be the one in TR'T or this one(after they fix that whole organ failure and death thing). I'd say 90% of the shots in the film I'd frame and put on my wall, or pay a designer to make my rooms look like some of theirs when my wealth matches my evil.
Standouts? Anthony Stewart Head(my God, Giles has fucking PIPES), Sarah Brightman(absolutely gorgeous as Blind Mag and another amazing singer), the aforementioned design, and two scenes: "Zydrate Anatomy" and "Chase the Morning", which were absolutely mesmerizing, IMO, in every respect. Both songs have been on loop in my head since the show. Terence Zdunich was a striking, cool presence. Everybody seemed to perk up when he showed up. And people laughed their ASSES off when he called what we'd just seen a 'goth opera' at the end. :)
Paris didn't knock me out, but she didn't bother me either; I was surprised she wasn't in it more. Actually there were a few story bits I felt weren't expanded upon, made me wonder if there were scenes cut out.. though I just heard this was basically a 'compressed middle' of the entire Repo story, would be cool if there was an expanded edition down the road. If it was a 'regular film' I'd have asked more of the characters/narrative I think. But this film is really an experience. That's the best way to put it to me. Can't treat it like a regular movie.
Overall I had a really good time and it's growing on me. It's just good to see a film completely tailored to those outside the box, that doesn't look or sound like anything else. I don't really compare it to Rocky Horror other than they both celebrate weirdness (which is never a word I'd use in a bad way).
'beautiful weirdness'..that's the term. We need more films and entertainment that celebrate beautiful weirdness. Horror films already do to a degree, but this was even more in that vein.
But it was wonderful to see something tailor made for 'that culture.' Whatever its title. It's not just horror but horror's a big part of it- can emcompass people in the SCA, sci fi fans, fetish, etc. Maybe it doesn't need a name. We know it when we see it.
I was sold on the trailer a while back, but what made me really psyched to go (and see it w/a paying audience instead of critics' screenings I'd been invited to) was an interview DLB did where he was wholeheartedly approving of that weirdness and talking about how people like that still don't have a voice in film, really. When the teen awkwardness/outside the box personality still hasn't gone away 10 years later, it's still good to hear that. Thanks, DLB, for ignoring what safe people would advise and fucking going for it.
I've seen the film in theatres three times now; twice in Austin and three times in Vegsa! The grand opening at the Planet Hollywood was beyond incredible. I was singing as loud as I could during the entire opening show, then later at the after party had everybody from the DP from Twisted Pictures, to Darren himself tell me they loved that I was screaming out lines.
The experience of the film in epic. It's like a concert, not a movie. Everyone who has the chance MUST see it!
Absolutely phenomenal. This film really delivers on all levels. The story is intricate and everything falls together well. The songs all mesh together seamlessly and it was just great to see how much the audience was excited about it. It was well worth the overy-one-year wait, and I need to see it again. If you are skeptical, see it anyways if you get the chance! The theater experience is amazing!
I just got out of the show and have to say I had an amazing time. This was certainly not the "worst movie ever" and, as I listen to the soundtrack, is cutting it's way into my top 10. The world that's been created for Repo! was incredibly imaginative and I feel bad that we couldn't spend more time there. The music was good, I'll be fair, with some of the songs dipping into meh while others easily competing with anything the Billboard top 10 has to offer (I could listen to Legal Assassin, Zydrate Anatomy, and Chase the Morning for hours). But that's the way of musicals; even Phantom of the Opera, my favourite, has songs that I would say are just passable.
My only real dissapointment was there were so many interesting characters and I felt we didn't get to know them as well as I'd like. Grave-robber in particular was such a cool character that felt like he had so much more to him that never got explored. Even Blind Mag felt like there was more besides what we were told.
Oh...and the bloom effect. It got to be a little much after a while. I don't mind bloom, but it was just a tad over done (just a tad).
All-in-all, I came out of the theatre extremely happy and excited about what I had just seen which is more than I can say for almost every movie I've seen in the last few years.
When I first heard of Repo! The Genetic Opera, back in March of 2007, I knew that this was something special that would be worth waiting for. As the release date drew nearer and nearer, I saw no advertising for it, save for some videos on YouTube. I had actually found the movie through a friend of mine who linked me to Zydrate Anatomy.
And I wondered, 'Why wouldn't anyone get behind this? They really have something unique going on here.'
After seeing the film in theaters, I still hold that same sentiment. Repo is an extraordinarily fun and outlandish film, with catching musical numbers and bizarrely appealing characters.
There were several issues with some of the believability of a few gory scenes of the film, which allows for Repo's tiny production budget to shine through. However, the care that went into the rest of the film is charming enough to overlook the sometimes cheesy props. (There also appeared to be several problems with synching and sound mastering, but it is difficult to tell if this was a problem of the theater's, or of the film's.)
Much of Repo's appeal is that it follows the same flow of direction and storytelling style as many traditional operas do. This is an angle which is unique to Repo, as most films to not take the same approach. Not only does Repo hold both elements of lighthearted humor (such as, when a man's small intestines are returned to Rotti Largo, Luigi Largo exclaims, 'Who ordered pizza? I could go for a SLICE!') and serious drama (such as the relationship between Nathan Wallace and his daughter Shilo), but the entire story and how the events fold together are overseen by the vaguely Papageno-like character of Graverobber. The viewer is given a very Shakespearean set up, where they know the characters and where they came from, and what sort of terrible things are possibly in store for them. Every interaction builds up until the grand event: The Genetic Opera, where every truth is revealed, and the fates of the main characters come to light.
Repo possesses everything that a good opera should: The drama, the humor, the memorable characters, and the earcatching music. Had Repo been given more support in its production, it could have been an even better quality film than it is now. While Repo isn't quite a refined film, it holds a character and unique quality that makes it immensely enjoyable. Hopefully LFG will take the hint and allow Repo some revision and remastery before the DVD release.
I was at the Premiere of Repo in NYC Friday night. There were many people like myself that are registered on the Repo Message boards, but unfortunately some were mainly Screaming fan girls/boys (sorry gang it's true haha)
I'm a Digital Filmmaking major and I am very disappointed at most of the critics. They will sit there and bash this movie when they honestly can’t take it for what it is.
I will admit there was a lot that could have been done. Lionsgate did not give them the biggest budget in the world. One of the catch lines for the movie is "this is not your parent’s opera." Well this isn't your average Hollywood Polished Blockbuster. There were many things that had to be cut and replaced due to Budget constraints. But for what they did it was amazing. The Cinematography was original, and the way it was shot gave the entire movie a "Comic-book-come-to-life" feel while still feeling gritty and real. The actors gave outstanding performances and whoever cast this should receive a medal. Not only could they act, they could sing, AND do both at the same time. The visual effects while not the most stunning in the world in some parts were amazing in others - IE Blind Mag's (Sarah Brightman) hologram-projecting eyes.
This is a very original film, and has very original music that is sure to attract a major following in the spirit of Rocky Horror. I use that comparison loosely as this is nothing like Rock horror, while it can be considered in the same genera.
I'm sorry to bash the critics only to become one myself but from my point of view this movie is stunning in many different aspects. Its originality and basic concept are a refreshing change from the now standardized Hollywood blockbusters.
Posted By: CiaCherryChic at 10:10pm, November 8, 2008
It was worth everything. Walking in the NYC Halloween Parade in costume to promote the movie was worth the blisters and headaches.
Although i wish Graverobber had a bigger part it was worth the wait.
The cast gave an incredible performance
and i must say i couldnt believe it when Mag died, no i didnt scream when she fell(hehehehe) mabye i did........
An im going to see it again
Whos with me???????
ANY TIME IT IS IN THEATERS IN MY AREA, I WILL BE IN THAT THEATER.
I think it's impossible for me to be disappointed with this. Those that have seen it, who know me a little better than most, have already sent me messages assuring me that whatever I'm expecting will be multiplied in awesomeness by at least 100.
That's really saying something about the fanbase for this movie.
So what a movie! First let me say that I knew what to expect throughout most of the movie. I heard the CD and knew it by heart. So the screening was completely sold out seat to seat was filled with a person. Unfortunately, no one sang at my screening of the film, no one dressed up, etc... and this could be a good thing. This means most of the people had no idea what repo was, just that it was probably a free movie. And at the end, everyone clapped.
First off, repo is a rock opera set in the near future where organ repossession has become legal and repo men lurk in the streets in the night. Shilo, the daughter of one of these repo men, is told to have an infected disease. Her father, nathan, pretends to be a doctor and care for her when at times she isn't around, Nathan turns into the repo man. Then there are the largos. Rotti Largo is the owner/founder of geneco and father of the three sibilings, Amber Sweet, Pavi Largo, and Luigi Largo.
So let me start off by saying how much I like this film. It's a great film with a great cast and a great story. I do have to admit, there were SOME flaws in the film. The plot of the two different families was very good and how they connected made it better. I liked how each of the character's backstory was told in a comic like form with graphic images. The story I felt was sorta slowish in the beginning but seriously picked up some heat in the middle and didn't stop until the very end. It was amazing.
The music was so great. Each actor had a different type of song for their character and each song was so great. Every song was like listening to nature. It was so natural and perfect that I cannot think of any words to describe it other than awesome and amazing. There were maybe one or two I didn't like but it picked itself right back up with the next song.
Anthony Head was perfect for the role of Nathan/Repo Man. He has one of the best voices in the whole movie. His character is a worn down old dad who's got only his daughter to live for. If he loses her, he loses everything. Head was the best choice for Nathan IMO.
Sarah Brightman. Just that. It's Sarah fricking Brightman. That name is perfect upon itself. I just wish she was given more songs to sing because she was underused IMO. Her best song is by far Chromaggia in the whole film. I love how everyone is silenced in the opera just listening to her perfect voice.
Alexa Vega is def. an up and coming star. She was another great pick for the role of Shilo Alexa brought the innocence in Shilo straight into the screen and it came off onto the audience greatly. She has a great voice and hope to hear her again.
Paul Sorvino. Oh my god what a voice. Seeing him sing was so amazing. His voice is perfect for opera and other musical related media. I've never heard such a great voice in my whole life Never. He sings SO powerfully and strong it just grips you and never lets you go.
The sibilings I felt were all great but were totally underused. They need more screen time.
Now for the Graverobber. I didn't think I say this but his character felt so........not pointless but a little unnecessary. All he does is get Shilo in trouble, explain Zydrate, and totally break the fourth wall (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_wall). Him doing that made the film feel so much NOT like a film at all but something totally else. It just didn't fit and didn't feel right. I'm sorry if that angers some people.
The sets were beautifully made and crafted I could tell but after seeing them all felt a little small once you think of them. I know the film had a low budget but they used it all to good and made great sets that really took you into the film's atmosphere.
The effects were really really good for such a low budget film. Nice Job! :D
Overall, I found repo to be one hell of a good ride. There was guts, blood, nudity, genterns, singing, comedy, horror, glowing bugs, Giles, Sarah Brightman, and an Opera that NO one should miss and NEVER forget!
One day I hope a sing along version is created for people and fans so that we can sing a long to the music because the music was so great.
I was speechless! i can't even begin to describe the movie people in the theater cheered and cried! I felt like was on a crazy ride I really can explain you have to see for your self!
YOU MUST WATCH THIS MOVIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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