Repo! The Genetic Opera

[Spinal]

This needs to be here so that I can view it any time I want:

Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfJxCYTKOi8)

My new favorite part is the guy who sings, "Tonight, we set the stage" after Paul Sorvino.

[lovejuice]

This needs to be here so that I can view it any time I want:

Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SFkHi9r5KI)

My new favorite part is the guy who sings, "Tonight, we set the stage" after Paul Sorvino.

damn! out of movies in the old emporium, i don't expect this one to be among the first to move here.

[Spinal]

damn! out of movies in the old emporium, i don't expect this one to be among the first to move here.

This is my Dark Knight.

[EvilShoe]

Why must you do this to me, Spinal?

[Bosco B Thug]

This needs to be here so that I can view it any time I want:

Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SFkHi9r5KI)

My new favorite part is the guy who sings, "Tonight, we set the stage" after Paul Sorvino. That's Bill "Chop Top" Moseley! He's a veteran horror movie roughneck/ham! And now he's, well, singing like one.

lol. this movie warrants all 1337 speak mockery.

[Lasse]

The sad thing is that I can't stop playing that trailer over and over again.

[D_Davis]

This is my Dark Knight.

Mine too. I am looking forward to both films with equal anticipation, and I bet I see them both an equal amount of times.

[megladon8]

Mine too. I am looking forward to both films with equal anticipation, and I bet I see them both an equal amount of times.


Wha wha wha???

I thought you were a great disliker of Batman Begins...why would you be anticipating the sequel so much?

[eternity]

Darren Lynn Bousman is totally incapable of making a good movie. I'll get dragged to this probably, but it'll certainly suck.

[Spinal]

Wha wha wha???

I thought you were a great disliker of Batman Begins...why would you be anticipating the sequel so much?

Yeah, I think that he was being funny.

[D_Davis]

Yeah, I think that he was being funny.

Me? Funny?

[Winston*]

I think the performance of the woman (?) who sings "my greatest face" while doing some kind of bizarre Bela Lugosi impression will be the highlight of this film. So weird.

[Spinal]

I think the performance of the woman (?) who sings "my greatest face" while doing some kind of bizarre Bela Lugosi impression will be the highlight of this film. So weird.

And why does she turn to break the fourth wall? I want to know.

[Boner M]

After watching that trailer and being left with such existential questions as "why?", "who is the audience for this?", "why?" and "WHY?!?", I looked to the comments section for answers:

yea..i usually don't like opera's but this looks diffrent from the others.... :P
Fair enough.

[Ivan Drago]

Why are you looking forward to this so much, Spinal?

[Spinal]

Why are you looking forward to this so much, Spinal?

I think the trailer speaks for itself. Watch it a couple more times and tell me that you don't want to see more.

[Ivan Drago]

I think the trailer speaks for itself. Watch it a couple more times and tell me that you don't want to see more.

I would if the video wasn't removed by the user.

[Spinal]

I would if the video wasn't removed by the user.

Fixed!

[EvilShoe]

I wish I had never shown you this trailer, Spinal.

[Raiders]

I think the trailer speaks for itself. Watch it a couple more times and tell me that you don't want to see more.

I don't want to see more.

[Spinal]

I don't want to see more.

I don't think you mean that.

[Ivan Drago]

I think the trailer speaks for itself. Watch it a couple more times and tell me that you don't want to see more.

:has seen the trailer for a 2nd time:

Uhh...why are you looking forward to this again? Is it because of the source material?

[Spinal]

:has seen the trailer for a 2nd time:

Uhh...why are you looking forward to this again? Is it because of the source material?

camp

NOUN:

1. An affectation or appreciation of manners and tastes commonly thought to be artificial, vulgar, or banal.
2. Banality, vulgarity, or artificiality when deliberately affected or when appreciated for its humor: "Camp is popularity plus vulgarity plus innocence" (Indra Jahalani).

ADJECTIVE:

Having deliberately artificial, vulgar, banal, or affectedly humorous qualities or style: played up the silliness of their roles for camp effect.

[Ivan Drago]

^ Gotcha.

Personally, it doesn't like camp to me. To me it looks like utter crap.

[Spinal]

^ Gotcha.

Personally, it doesn't like camp to me. To me it looks like utter crap.

Oh so if I look forward to this I'm crazy. But if I look forward to another tedious, predictable film with Christian Bale running around in a rubber suit playing grumpy Batman, I'm hip and with it. Okey dokey.

[Kurosawa Fan]

Oh so if I look forward to this I'm crazy. But if I look forward to another tedious, predictable film with Christian Bale running around in a rubber suit playing grumpy Batman, I'm hip and with it. Okey dokey.

Speaking of grumpy... ;)

[Raiders]

Spinal in action (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=12178738389071 00199&q=cat+attack+child&total=67&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=3)

[Spinal]

Spinal in action (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=12178738389071 00199&q=cat+attack+child&total=67&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=3)

:lol:

[Ivan Drago]

Oh so if I look forward to this I'm crazy. But if I look forward to another tedious, predictable film with Christian Bale running around in a rubber suit playing grumpy Batman, I'm hip and with it. Okey dokey.

Hey hey, no need to get pissed. I don't think you're crazy. That's just my personal take.

[MadMan]

Oh so if I look forward to this I'm crazy. But if I look forward to another tedious, predictable film with Christian Bale running around in a rubber suit playing grumpy Batman, I'm hip and with it. Okey dokey.Yep. Pretty much ;)

My response to the trailer: WTF was that? I fail to understand why you want to see this Spinal.


Spinal in action (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=12178738389071 00199&q=cat+attack+child&total=67&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=3)Heh. So is Spinal=the cat attacking the baby? What did that baby ever do to you Spinal :P

[Winston*]

Wait..so there are people that honestly can't see teh funny in that trailer? :confused:

[MadMan]

Wait..so there are people that honestly can't see teh funny in that trailer? :confused:Perhaps because the funny wasn't funny? :|

[Spinal]

Wait..so there are people that honestly can't see teh funny in that trailer? :confused:

Yes. There's also people that think I would get pissed about a movie trailer.

[MadMan]

I'm not one of those. But you did come off as a bit grumpy Spinal. In need of a nap grandpa? ;)












*Runs like hell*

[monolith94]

Well, I want to see neither the new Batman filmnor this big p.o.s. Seriously, it's like Avril Lavigne meets Argento's "Opera".

[Spinal]

OK, try to imagine seeing this trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hF32_bNZikg) for the first time. Imagine what Match Cut would say about it if it were a new film being released next year. :)

[Sycophant]

Okay. I finally watched the trailer. I'm intrigued.

[Duncan]

I am not as excited as Spinal seems to be, but I think it looks genuinely funny.

[EvilShoe]

But the music... it's so terrible!

[dreamdead]

I too will go record and say I'm intrigued. At least they're not covering up the fact that it's a damn musical, as Burton's done with the Sweeney Todd trailers thus far. This has the potential to suck as few films have ever sucked before, but it also has the ability to register as something moderately original and challenging. I'm game.

Plus, it's just fun to email the trailer around and gauge their reactions...

[Spinal]

This has the potential to suck as few films have ever sucked before, but it also has the ability to register as something moderately original and challenging. I'm game.


Exactly. Good or bad doesn't really matter as long as it's fun. I just love how committed the cast seems to be singing such silly stuff.

[monolith94]

OK, try to imagine seeing this trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hF32_bNZikg) for the first time. Imagine what Match Cut would say about it if it were a new film being released next year. :)
But Spinal, this new "Repo" trailer is objectively much worse than the Rocky Horror trailer. It has none of the sexual transgression, the music isn't as appealing, the camerwork is more slick and more "hollywood", and no Tim Curry!

I think that if I had never seen "Rocky Horror" I would have enjoyed the trailer for it. The big red lips alone are more daring and funny than anything I saw in the Repo trailer.

[Grouchy]

OK, try to imagine seeing this trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hF32_bNZikg) for the first time. Imagine what Match Cut would say about it if it were a new film being released next year. :)
That's a bold fucking statement, amigo.

Anyway, I'd seen this trailer before and I'm there. No doubt about it. Even if it's bad, I want to see how bad it can get in theaters. It's not like a torture porn Horror opera musical comes out every year.

[Sycophant]

Thanks for posting that trailer, Spinal. It reminded me that one day, when I finally see Rocky Horror, it will be alone, locked in a dark basement where no one can possibly influence my experience. I can only imagine how someone sitting next to me loving that movie exuberantly would irritate me.

If the trailers were shown side by side, I'd be more inclined to see Repo, actually.

[Rowland]

But the music... it's so terrible!Yeah it is. Watching that trailer hurt my ears.

[Spinal]

It has none of the sexual transgression, the music isn't as appealing, the camerwork is more slick and more "hollywood", and no Tim Curry!


In 1975, it would have been highly unlikely that you would have known who Tim Curry was. Same for Susan Sarandon. My point is that the two projects were spawned from similar places: cult stage shows that were exuberant in their unfashionable-ness. The Rocky Horror devotees delight in mocking the very thing that they adore. It only matters that you're having fun. Maybe this film won't be fun at all. Maybe it will just be tiresome. If it is, I will confess as much. But there's enough outrageous things going on in the trailer for me to have hope that it will be a collossally bizarre and singular experience.

[Boner M]

I dunno, the trailer is fascinatingly unhinged, but a nu-mutal/torture-porn opera seems like the kind of thing best laughed at in trailer form and never endured in full. I imagine the novelty would wear off pretty quick.

The music, indeed, sounds punishingly awful.

[lovejuice]

i'll be there, only because it's a musical.

[Spinal]

Pushed back to August. Bah. Well, at least it's better positioned for Oscar season. :)

New website (http://repo-opera.com/) is kinda fun.

[Qrazy]

I dunno, The Rocky Horror trailer proves to me the director knows how to use a camera... the other one... kind of doesn't.

The Genetic Opera is such a hilariously stupid name that I might watch bits of it though... on youtube.

[Bosco B Thug]

New trailer (http://divertissement.sympatico.msn.c a/Cinema/Fantasia/Index_?v=09d2b5b7-457c-45b4-a026-85050d80f1fa)!!!

Could be quite the slog still, but I dunno, I'll give it a chance.

[Spinal]

Can't wait.

[dreamdead]

Oh man, this will be the singular film I look forward to for the rest of the year. Nothing can top the unadulterated mess I hope this film ends up being; if they neuter this film through over-slickness I'll be so depressed. The track record isn't great, but I'm hoping.

[Grouchy]

That new trailer sure looks awesome.

Looking at the official page, I see this is also based on a stage rock opera.

[Dead & Messed Up]

I'm with Spinal. This is so f**king weird that it could be brilliant.

She doesn't know that her daddy's a Repo Man!

[Winston*]

A couple of songs.
http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?id=1591429&vid=260472

Yeah...no way could I take a whole movie of that.

[Ezee E]

This year's Southland Tales.

[Bosco B Thug]

A couple of songs.
http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?id=1591429&vid=260472

Yeah...no way could I take a whole movie of that.
Yeah... noooo thanks.

[Spinal]

The release date is now ... November. My enthusiasm is wavering.

[Dead & Messed Up]

The release date is now ... November. My enthusiasm is wavering.

Damn it.

Be steadfast, Spinal. Be strong.

[dreamdead]

The second song in the mtv link blows (lyrically and thematically), but the first song still intrigues me. We'll see.

[Spinal]

This is finally opening this week supposedly.

[Bosco B Thug]

This is finally opening this week supposedly.
Yep, listings:

http://www.sharenow.com/repotheatricalrelease/

I've one nearby. I'll probably end up seeing it.

[Spinal]

Yep, listings:

http://www.sharenow.com/repotheatricalrelease/

I've one nearby. I'll probably end up seeing it.

Just one showing in Portland? Lame. I can't go that night.

[ThePlashyBubbler]

One of the producers of this is an alumni of our college, so he brought the film for an advanced screening about a month ago. It was pretty terrible.

[Spinal]

Just one showing in Portland? Lame. I can't go that night.

Looks like I'll be able to attend after all. Should have a reaction to report late Monday night.

[Spinal]

Bah, got there over an hour early and it was already sold out. I should never underestimate Portland's attraction to weird.

[Boner M]

Bah, got there over an hour early but bailed cos I know it's gonna suck and my life will be empty. What have I done to myself?
*walks away whistling*

[D_Davis]

I had no idea until yesterday that Oger from Skinny Puppy is in this.

That's awesome.

[Spinal]

*walks away whistling*

Nah, I'm actually quite disappointed because that would have been the perfect circumstances in which to watch the movie, surrounded by cult film fans who were jacked up and ready to have a good time. I am likely to be much more critical watching the film at home on DVD.

[Spinal]

Anything I say has to be prefaced with the fact that I saw this at a frustratingly shitty Portland independent theater with poor picture quality and a horrific sound system. Therefore, my rating is an estimate at best. I'll have to watch it again on DVD or something.

That said, I've rarely seen a film that is flailing around so wildly grasping at ideas. Because of its willingness to be so aggressively unfashionable and also because of a cast that wholeheartedly embraces the absurd material, Repo! occasionally stumbles upon musical moments and imagery that are surprisingly arresting. Unfortunately, the lyrics, dialogue, scenario and direction are so out of control that the film has many more moments that are awkward and bewildering, though notably, never grating. My final impression is that it is a curiously endearing mess that I could easily ridicule bit by bit, if only I could get over the fact that I am honestly looking forward to seeing it again. Sweeney Todd it is not. It's not even Rocky Horror. The songs are too anti-melodic for that. But it's reckless in the best sense of the word and I often found myself smiling despite its frequent plunges into incoherence.

[Ezee E]

Bousman and cast are bringing this here for two days on January 20th. Might check it out.

[EyesWideOpen]

It's playing currently at one of the "dollar" theaters here in phoenix.

[Dukefrukem]

watching it now, the opening is phenomenal.

[eternity]

It's playing currently at one of the "dollar" theaters here in phoenix.

Where where where? I would totally drive anywhere in Phoenix to see it.

EDIT: Never mind, it's in Chandler. Fuck.

[Spinal]

A second viewing has been kind. My rating will likely be going up. Without the horrible audio quality of my theater viewing, I am enjoying the music more and catching more of the humor in the lyrics.

[Ezee E]

Hmm... I'd like to say that it certainly was unique, and while I didn't like it at all, I'll at least applaud the cast and crew for going along with it. There are moments that actually are pretty interesting, and a few musical numbers do work. However, there's just so many that do not work, and it feels so repetitive after a while.

Unlike Spinal, I do not look forward to seeing this again, but I will not ridicule it to death.

I think more will like it here than not though.

EDIT: After thinking about the musical numbers, I'd go with my favorites being the opening one, and "Zydrate Anatomy." I think Bousman preferred the Paris Hilton scenes, they all seemed to stand out from the rest for some reason. And that's a good thing for people who don't like Paris actually. :eek:

The first will go in my nominations for Best Song.

[Spinal]

Finished watching it for a second time with my wife tonight. I'm ready to say that I underestimated it the first time around. So much about it that I love. The music takes some getting used to, but I find it to be really effective. Really enjoy the passion in the performances. The project is clearly a labor of love that makes few concessions to fashion or mainstream appeal.

Old rating = **1/2
New rating = ***1/2

I'm joining the cult.

[Spinal]

I think more will like it here than not though.


Are we talking about the same people? I can barely think of anyone else who is going to like this film.

[Boner M]

Repo! The Genetic Opera is the kindest, bravest, warmest, most wonderful motion picture Spinal has ever known in his life.

[Ezee E]

Are we talking about the same people? I can barely think of anyone else who is going to like this film.
People liked Southland Tales here.

[Dukefrukem]

Unlike Spinal, I do not look forward to seeing this again, but I will not ridicule it to death.

I feel the same way. It's not something I will openly recommend to see, but people need to view this at least once. What a cool idea.

[Mara]

My adorable little community theater (a single-screen throwback, which was built in 1937 as part of a cooperative community project by Mrs. Roosevelt) had a midnight showing of this last week, and I completely spaced it. I guess I'll have to see it on DVD.

[Spinal]

Repo! The Genetic Opera is the kindest, bravest, warmest, most wonderful motion picture Spinal has ever known in his life.

Your humor is not registering. Not sure where you're going with this.


People liked Southland Tales here.

A fair point.

[Boner M]

Your humor is not registering. Not sure where you're going with this.
Manchurian Candidate? Being brainwashed into liking something that's clearly insufferable?

I'm just ribbin' ya, anyway.

[Spinal]

Manchurian Candidate? Being brainwashed into liking something that's clearly insufferable?

I'm just ribbin' ya, anyway.

Ah, yeah. Didn't catch it. Yeah, I don't expect the film to have too many supporters, aside from Yum-Yum.

[Sycophant]

The director of this film actually came to Salt Lake at our little independent theater. I was interested in going, then I remembered the sort of people who would likely attend that, and I stayed home.

Still would like to give this a shot, though.

[The Mike]

So much about it that I love. The music takes some getting used to, but I find it to be really effective. Really enjoy the passion in the performances. The project is clearly a labor of love that makes few concessions to fashion or mainstream appeal.

I'm joining the cult.

I'm with this.

I've watched it at least two times through this week, and have popped it in for random scenes/songs more often. It's growing on me like a fungus. The utter lack of restraint by the performers is more than enough to make up for any and all flaws.

Except that Bill Moseley is terrible. :lol:

[Spinal]

I've watched it at least two times through this week, and have popped it in for random scenes/songs more often. It's growing on me like a fungus. The utter lack of restraint by the performers is more than enough to make up for any and all flaws.


Yep. I've had "Didn't Know I'd Love You So Much" in my head all day today. Bought the DVD yesterday.

[thefourthwall]

Finally saw this this weekend; I've been excited for months. And it was okay! I realize that the execution wasn't as good as the concept, and, sadly, I didn't find any of the songs to be infectious. All in all though I rather liked it, the art direction, the costuming, the wonderful Shakespearean King Lear-ness of the plot. It had high aims and some deep roots connecting it to other works, which I admire. I would read the graphic novel sequel should anyone decide to make it.

And, apparently, this isn't too far off of reality, as a man is seeking to have his kidney returned from his soon-to-be ex-wife (http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2009/01/07/2009-01-07_long_island_doctor_richard_ batista_to_es.html).

[Spinal]

Repo: the Genetic Drama? (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1053424/plotsummary)


Plot summary for
Repossession Mambo (2009)

Set in the near future when artificial organs can be bought on credit, it revolves around a man who struggles to make the payments on a heart he has purchased. He must therefore go on the run before said ticker is repossessed.

Cast includes Jude Law, Forest Whitaker and Carice van Houten. :confused:

[Spinal]

I realize that the execution wasn't as good as the concept, and, sadly, I didn't find any of the songs to be infectious.

The biggest issue for me is too much use of the comic book stills, which apparently was their solution to cover plot elements that they didn't have the budget to shoot. I really like the performances all around and the songs really clicked for me on the second viewing. Favorites are "At the Opera Tonight", "Zydrate Anatomy", "Didn't Know I'd Love You So Much" and "We Started This Opera Shit". Glad you liked it.

[dreamdead]

This film is is actually rather enjoyable. I wish that the comic book panels had felt more integral to the storyline than feeling like narrative shorthand, as others have already suspected. And the film would have benefited from a theme reprise here or there to ground the noteworthy tracks a bit more. "Zydrate Anatomy" is the clear winner for me, what with its ease in flow and formal challenges as the color themes keep switching out.

That said, save for a murky beginning with Sorvino's vocals and a hurried finale, the film was quite respectable. And though that might be the worst insult to grace a film like this with, it's remarkable that they achieved so much when it could have been a disaster. I just wish that the film had allowed more time for characters to breathe (especially the father/daughter stories for both Head and Sorvino) as they felt too tied into the narrative arc rather than fully developed subjects in their own right.

[Spinal]

Good thoughts, and I think your criticisms are certainly fair. In the commentary, Bousman comes right out and says that the comic book panels were a solution to cover scenes that the producers did not allow him to shoot for budgetary reasons. They do go on a little long in my opinion, especially at the beginning.

[thefourthwall]

I didn't mind the panels; seems like it makes sense in our media borrowing/overlapping these days--it's pastiche!

[thefourthwall]

This film is is actually rather enjoyable.

[...] the film was quite respectable.

and that equals a 63? Harsh.

[Spinal]

I didn't mind the panels; seems like it makes sense in our media borrowing/overlapping these days--it's pastiche!

I don't think they're out of place. I just think that they become too much of a storytelling crutch. Minor issue though.

[thefourthwall]

I don't think they're out of place. I just think that they become too much of a storytelling crutch. Minor issue though.

I guess I can see that. But I've been to the opera and at full length they can get boring, sometimes brevity is nice. Although, I can see how it over-simplified and made the story a little heavy handed.

[number8]

Oh, wow. I thought this was just a musical, but it really is a fucking opera. I'm... really impressed. And kind of loved it?

Anthony Stewart Head is absolutely fantastic.

[number8]

So tempted to restart it again...

[number8]

I think my only criticism is that Meatloaf is not in this.

[Ezee E]

Told you Spinal.

[Spinal]

Told you Spinal.

I am glad to be wrong. Thought I would be flying solo with this one.

[number8]

"Legal Assassin" is one hell of a song.

[Spinal]

So tempted to restart it again...

I've watched it three times in the last week.

[number8]

I've watched it three times in the last week.

I might have to purchase it.

[The Mike]

I think my only criticism is that Meatloaf is not in this.

Truth.

[Spinal]

Guess he could have played Paul Sorvino's part.

[Dead & Messed Up]

(Repost from the discussion thread)

Repo: The Genetic Opera was pretty good for a while, but I was disappointed by the lack of genuinely fun songs. There were a few that caught my attention. "Zydrate Anatomy," "Chase the Morning," and "Seventeen" were standouts, the latter featuring a driving guitar riff from Joan Jett.

But I think the film pads itself with too much inconsequential singing with no recurring melody or time signature. Much of it is repetitive, as well, with the singing frequently duplicating information we just learned via monologue or comic book splashes.

Still, props to Bousman for creating a film so confident and idiosyncratic. After what I thought was dull hackery on the Saw films, I'm suddenly a lot more interested in what he does next.

[number8]

I don't know how anyone could not fall in love with "Legal Assassin."

[MadMan]

Still need to write a review for this one. Needless to say, I am very glad that I ended up liking it. My original post ended up being quite wrong, but then I'm normally biased against the musical genre. Most of the songs were quite inventive, and the Grave Robber was my favorite character out of the whole bunch. The "Surgery" song was awesome.

[Spinal]

So, Paris Hilton ended up 'winning' a Razzie for her performance in this film. Which makes me wonder if the people who give them out actually watch the films.

[MadMan]

So, Paris Hilton ended up 'winning' a Razzie for her performance in this film. Which makes me wonder if the people who give them out actually watch the films.I don't think so. After watching this movie, I realized that her performance in it is a great in-joke. And she's not really that bad in it, anyways. Besides the Razzies failed with me this year when they nominated Indy 4.

[Spinal]

I don't think so. After watching this movie, I realized that her performance in it is a great in-joke. And she's not really that bad in it, anyways. Besides the Razzies failed with me this year when they nominated Indy 4.

Well, that one was deserved. But I looked it up and they nominated Speed Racer! Idiots.

[Dead & Messed Up]

I don't know how anyone could not fall in love with "Legal Assassin."

Forgot to mention that one.

The more I reflect on it, the more I admire the flick.

[MadMan]

Well, that one was deserved. But I looked it up and they nominated Speed Racer! Idiots.:| in regards to your opinion of Indy 4. As for Speed Racer, I have not seen it but I highly doubt it is one of the worst movies of the year.

[eternity]

:| in regards to your opinion of Indy 4. As for Speed Racer, I have not seen it but I highly doubt it is one of the worst movies of the year.

It's one of the best.

[Mara]

So, nobody in my real life (not online) is allowed to know how much I thoroughly enjoyed this film. It's awesome, but it's secretly awesome.

I did something to hurt my wrists this weekend, so I'm not going to type up long thoughts, but I had a quick question: Paris Hilton wasn't bad (which is about as good as you can expect) but her voice was terrible. I thought I had heard she'd recorded an album? Shouldn't she have been able to carry a tune? Was she deliberately making her voice bad?

Tony Head, Paul Sorvino and Sarah Brightman were all fantastic.

But the Graverobber/Co-Creator is my new boyfriend, and nobody is going to tell me differently.

[Mara]

By the way, I think making this film influenced Sarah Brightman's personal style. The whole thing reminded me of this gorgeous little number she wore at a DC concert late last year:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/maragirl/sarah_brightman_06_wenn5212551-thum.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/maragirl/sarah_brightman_07_wenn5212552-thum.jpg

[Mara]

After five minutes of thought, I'm kind of regretting putting it back in the Netflix envelope this morning. What is wrong with me?

[Mara]

I don't like horror movies, and I don't like violence.

So, it's unlike me to gasp through giggles: "He's playing that dead guy like a puppet! HAHAHAHAHA!"

I'll stop posting now.

[Spinal]

I absolutely love the costumes in this film. Particularly Brightman's.

[number8]

I had a quick question: Paris Hilton wasn't bad (which is about as good as you can expect) but her voice was terrible. I thought I had heard she'd recorded an album? Shouldn't she have been able to carry a tune? Was she deliberately making her voice bad?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhvVBvF9-98

Her album was full of songs that didn't require actual singing. I think Zydrate Anatomy is probably the hardest song she'd ever had to perform.

[Mara]

Lame. By the way, I liked the music in the film. It was atonal in the cool, sophisticated, Sondheim kind of way.

I can't believe that she agreed to play a spoiled, rich, over-sexed plasticized heiress. Either she has a much better sense of humor about herself than I would have guessed, or she's even stupider than I thought.

If the former, than Ms. Hilton is Up .2% in popularity this week.

[number8]

I'm embarrassed to know this, but yes, she actually has a great sense of humor about her own public perception. Or, at least, she knows how to make it work to her advantage.

Remember, she made shitloads of money pretending to be retarded in that "Simple Life" show, which was fully scripted. She released a fake-tell all biography making fun of her status as a heiress, she made web videos during the election playing to her idiot personality, and her "New BFF" reality show is some kind of circus show where she basically tortures people who are pathetic enough to want to be friends with the "Paris Hilton" persona (you can see the sadistic glee in her eyes that she tries to hide as she gives "challenges"--she's not that good of an actress).

My wife is convinced that she's some kind of business genius.

[Spinal]

I think Hilton's voice works for the character. I mean, she sings about as well as Bill Moseley.

Also, I think she is well aware of her public image and how she is perceived. I expect that she was happy to have the role and that the similarities did not go unnoticed. In the audio commentary, they reveal that the clothes she wears in the film are largely her own because she heard they had a small budget and so she brought in stuff that she thought would work for her character.

[Kurosawa Fan]

Let's not give Paris too much credit. For someone with such a great sense of humor, she hasn't responded well when others have criticized her. Be it Sarah Silverman at some award show, or David Letterman on an interview, she's acted like a hurt puppy whenever people take shots at her. I'm sure she was aware of the role mirroring her own life in certain ways, but my guess is she took the role for exposure, not because she found the self-mockery so fun and in the spirit of her own attitude.

[Mara]

Oscar Wilde said the only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about.

So, I guess, the only thing worse than having the audience watch your face fall off on stage is to have them not watch your face fall off on stage.

[Spinal]

I'm sure she was aware of the role mirroring her own life in certain ways, but my guess is she took the role for exposure, not because she found the self-mockery so fun and in the spirit of her own attitude.

I think that's what we're saying. That first and foremost, she wanted the opportunity because it would be fun and because there was someone willing to take her (somewhat) seriously as both a singer and an actress. I wouldn't go so far as to say that she gives a performance that is knowingly self-referential (though the filmmakers are certainly using that to their advantage). I would say that compared to the stuff that gets written about her every day, that the connections in her Repo! character are comparatively mild.

[Sycophant]

I just put this on the top of my Netflix queue. I've had the same three discs for the last five months, and I think I've determined that I'm just never going to get around to them because my excitement for them isn't very high. But I so want to watch this right now.

[Spinal]

I just put this on the top of my Netflix queue. I've had the same three discs for the last five months, and I think I've determined that I'm just never going to get around to them because my excitement for them isn't very high. But I so want to watch this right now.

Yes, when Mara is getting giddy about a film from the director of Saw II, that should get your attention.

[Mara]

Yes, when Mara is getting giddy about a film from the director of Saw II, that should get your attention.

Oh, no, is he really? I'm going to have to go kill myself now. It's better when I don't know these things.

[Kurosawa Fan]

I think that's what we're saying. That first and foremost, she wanted the opportunity because it would be fun and because there was someone willing to take her (somewhat) seriously as both a singer and an actress. I wouldn't go so far as to say that she gives a performance that is knowingly self-referential (though the filmmakers are certainly using that to their advantage). I would say that compared to the stuff that gets written about her every day, that the connections in her Repo! character are comparatively mild.

Yeah, sorry about that. Number8 was the one I was responding to, and I should have quoted him.

[Mara]

Seriously, though, my wrists are hurting less so I'll address this a little bit.

Mara Doesn't Like Horror by Mara

It's a huge generalization, but pretty much true. I'm especially adverse to slasher films or what they have lovingly dubbed "torture porn."

First of all, I'm unclear what sort of response I'm supposed to have to these films as an audience member. Am I supposed to be frightened? These sort of films do not frighten me. Am I supposed to be disgusted? Well, I am, but that's not a feeling that I want to artificially provoke for entertainment purposes.

Also, many many many of these film are women-hating, which bothers me on a fundamental level. Those that are not women-hating are usually still person-hating to some extent.

The slasher films that offend me the most, however, are the ones where horrific violence is somehow morally justified. It seems to me that movie-going audiences want to see depraved violence divorced from the shackles of guilt and consequence. They do this by putting the protagonist in some insane situation where they must perputate the violence either in self-defense (to escape or foil some even-more-depraved persons) or in vengeance (like that House on the Left film which just came out.)

I also have this problem with video games. There was some video game that came out a few years ago, and they advertised it on television by showing regular Joes looking at the people around them, like on the subway, and then suddenly imagining them all through gun-sights. The idea was that the game stays with you in your normal life. This game is so good that it will make you imagine killing real people! Yippee!!

I guess the reason I really enjoyed Repo! is that it didn't seem to put those sort of expectations on me. I wasn't supposed to forgive any of the killers. I felt sorry for Nathan, but I wasn't supposed to think that he was killing simply out of duty-- he enjoyed it. He wasn't, fundamentally, a good person. And Shilo, when given the opportunity and a perfect excuse to actually commit a murder, chooses not to... because, fundamentally, she is a good person.

I also felt very clear on how the audience wanted me to respond the film, and my responses fell in line easily.

FILM: Look, this is gross!
MARA: Eww!
FILM: Oh, but this is kind of sad.
MARA: Aww.
FILM: Fun stuff! Let's dance!
MARA: *dances*
FILM: Obscene violence is funny!
MARA: HAHAHAHAHA!

[Ezee E]

Perhaps Paris Hilton just has an agent that is a genius?

[MadMan]

Mara you are a prime candidate to like the Val Lewton horror films of the 1940s, and the more supernatural/atmospheric horror pictures of the 1950s and 1960s. I'd advise staying away from 1970s horror, and the 80s altogether.

[Mara]

Mara you are a prime candidate to like the Val Lewton horror films of the 1940s, and the more supernatural/atmospheric horror pictures of the 1950s and 1960s. I'd advise staying away from 1970s horror, and the 80s altogether.

Aright, I'm queuing some up.

[Spinal]

I guess the reason I really enjoyed Repo! is that it didn't seem to put those sort of expectations on me. I wasn't supposed to forgive any of the killers. I felt sorry for Nathan, but I wasn't supposed to think that he was killing simply out of duty-- he enjoyed it. He wasn't, fundamentally, a good person. And Shilo, when given the opportunity and a perfect excuse to actually commit a murder, chooses not to... because, fundamentally, she is a good person.

Well put. And I totally agree. Beneath all the blood, the film really does a good job of creating a likable protagonist who carries the hope of a better world.



FILM: Look, this is gross!
MARA: Eww!
FILM: Oh, but this is kind of sad.
MARA: Aww.
FILM: Fun stuff! Let's dance!
MARA: *dances*
FILM: Obscene violence is funny!
MARA: HAHAHAHAHA!

:lol:

[Mara]

Also, every time the GraveRobber showed up, I said "SWEET!" out loud.

Even though I was alone.

That's the sign of a good movie.

[Mara]

:lol:

It actually feels a little funny to refer to myself in the third person as "Mara."

Although my sister calls me that sometimes by accident.



I hope it's by accident.

[Dead & Messed Up]

Mara Doesn't Like Horror by Mara

It's a huge generalization, but pretty much true. I'm especially adverse to slasher films or what they have lovingly dubbed "torture porn."

First of all, I'm unclear what sort of response I'm supposed to have to these films as an audience member. Am I supposed to be frightened? These sort of films do not frighten me. Am I supposed to be disgusted? Well, I am, but that's not a feeling that I want to artificially provoke for entertainment purposes.

Completely agree. There are far too many of these kinds of movies - lately - where the filmmakers revel in the gore and unpleasantness they produce, under the guise of being "hardcore" and "real." Oddly, I'm a big fan of Hostel, but that's mostly from the film's attitude regarding xenophobia and desensitization.


Also, many many many of these film are women-hating, which bothers me on a fundamental level. Those that are not women-hating are usually still person-hating to some extent.

Many people suggest that slasher films are "empowering" to women by making the hero a virtuous woman who proves the equal of a male threat. I don't know that I agree - considering how heavily eroticized they are, and how often they, you know, get killed.


The slasher films that offend me the most, however, are the ones where horrific violence is somehow morally justified. It seems to me that movie-going audiences want to see depraved violence divorced from the shackles of guilt and consequence. They do this by putting the protagonist in some insane situation where they must perputate the violence either in self-defense (to escape or foil some even-more-depraved persons) or in vengeance (like that House on the Left film which just came out.)

I would agree that not enough horror films deal with the moral and long-term ramifications of the violence inflicted. But it must be pointed out that violence as a solution is something that far too many movies (of many different genres) use without really examining.

[number8]

Yeah, sorry about that. Number8 was the one I was responding to, and I should have quoted him.

I don't know, man. Being called a whore by people who probably mean it will still hurt regardless, but that doesn't mean she can't be good humored about her image and exploit it for her own profits.

Personally, I find this list she wrote in her book rather brilliant. Especially the first one.



MY INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO BE AN HEIRESS

1 BE BORN INTO THE RIGHT FAMILY. Choose your chromosomes wisely. This may seem like ludicrous advice, but actually it isn't. If an heiress is in control of everything, why shouldn't she be in control of who she's born to? You know how everyone always says there are no accidents? Well, I believe you choose who you're born to. And if you do have the misfortune of being born into the wrong family, remember: No one has to know. Airing family laundry is definitely a big no-no for an heiress. You can always reinvent yourself and your lineage if you have to. Half of Park Avenue and Bel Air have. Lineage can be a state of mind.

2 HAVE A GREAT NAME. If you are going to be an heiress, you can't have a normal name, unless you're British. All British people have plain names, and that works pretty well over there. But in America, you've got to have a name that stands out. I love my name. Paris is my favorite city. And Paris without the P is "heiress," isn't it? In sixth grade, people would make fun of me and call me "France" or "London." Well, I'm going to name my own daughter Paris! An heiress needs to have a glamorous — or a really cute — name. My sister Nicky's name is cute. An heiress's dog also needs to have a cute name. My teacup Chihuahua is named Tinkerbell, so she acts like a Tinkerbell. If you have a cute name, you will act cute. If you have a glam name, you will act glam. It's that simple. Future moms should make a note of that.

3 HAVE ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS SKIN, BUT DON'T FRET OVER IT. Pile makeup on and never, ever have a breakout. Perfect skin is a birthright, and it means you can never really take a bad photograph. No amount of junk food or Coca-Cola can change your skin. And if, God forbid, it does, have a great makeup artist standing by. It can't hurt.

4 EAT ONLY FAST FOOD OR THE MOST FABULOUS FOOD. Greasy chips or perfect crab cakes. Cotton candy or caviar. Fast food or fois gras. French fries or black-pepper shrimp from the Ivy in L.A. Cheesy junk or expensive cheese. Being an heiress is all about extremes.

5 DEVELOP A WAY OF ENTERING A ROOM THAT LOOKS ROYAL AND REGAL BUT NOT SNOBBY. Learn how to pose in an onslaught of flashing lights without blinking. (Note to celebrities: You can always improve.) Always know your best angle — for your body and your face — and work it. Study your own pictures and you'll figure it out.
6 NEVER, EVER WAKE UP BEFORE TEN; NEVER GO TO BED BEFORE THREE. Normal hours are for normal people. You never want to be normal. Anyone can be normal. How boring. I'm yawning.

7 ALWAYS TELL EVERYONE WHAT THEY WANT TO HEAR. Then do what you want. That way, no one ever gets mad at you. They get very confused, then blame it on themselves. If anyone confronts you, smile sweetly and act coyly. Particularly with guys. And bosses. Try not to have bosses if you can avoid them. Or have your manager deal with them.

8 NEVER HAVE ONLY ONE CELL PHONE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE MANY. Lose one all the time. That way, if you haven't called someone back, you can blame it on the lost phone. It's very important to get a new model the minute it comes out. Nokias, Ericksons, Motorolas — those are the coolest. Always have at least two numbers: a friend line and a business line. If I feel like avoiding a call, I answer my phone in a phony British accent and say, "Hello, Paris Hilton's line," or something like that. I do that if I'm expecting a call from a guy I've changed my mind about and I don't want to have dinner with him anymore. Every woman has the right to change her mind from time to time; therefore heiresses have more of a right.

9 NEVER WEAR THE SAME THING TWICE. This is particularly important if you're going to be photographed a lot, which I am. If you double up, people will think you have only one outfit — and that's annoying. And untrue.

10 DON'T WEAR A DRESS THAT'S IN ALL THE MAGAZINES. That's for girls with no imagination who just buy what magazines tell them to buy. Look for the cool, unusual dress that no one else has the nerve to wear. Dare to be different. Dare to wear colors and prints. All the boring New York socialite girls wear black. Do you ever see a girl in a magazine wearing black? I don't think so. Don't run out and buy the bag of the moment or the dress of the moment. I like expensive things, but I like cheap things, too. I like anything that's cute and makes me happy. I haven't met too many clothes I didn't like — except black clothes.

11 IF YOU'RE HAPPY, WEAR PINK. If you're depressed, wear black. Black is for people who don't want to have fun with clothes and who are always hiding — in other words, depressed. No one with a truly great body wears black, trust me. And if you really want to stand out and be confident, wear white.

12 MAKE PLANS, PLANS, AND MORE PLANS. Invite everyone you know to come along. If there aren't enough hours in the day, don't worry, there will be. You live in a different time zone: Heiress Time.

13 ACT DITZY. LOSE THINGS. It throws people off and makes them think you're "adorable," and less together than you really are.

14 IF ALL ELSE FAILS, ACT BORED. Not boring. There's a huge difference.

15 PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION ARE OKAY, in limited amounts, but only with your serious boyfriend, because that's exactly what someone with a famous family name is NOT supposed to do. It makes other boys think you're dangerous, so they will all want you, too. Guys like women they're a little afraid of. No, make that a lot afraid of.

16 ALWAYS HAVE A VERY BIG BODYGUARD. It intimidates guys. If a guy does have the nerve to approach you when your bodyguard is around, you know he's got to be pretty fearless.

17 ALWAYS HAVE A TAN. It looks like you've been in an exotic (i.e., expensive) place. It can never look fake, even if it is. Get the spray-on tan, so it doesn't get all over your clothes.

18 CHANGE YOUR HAIRSTYLE ALL THE TIME. Everyone expects you to have the same hairstyle in every photo, and only dull people do that. Tell everyone you're wearing hair extensions even if you aren't, because they don't expect you to tell them.

19 NEVER DRINK DIET SODA. It shows you have no nerve. Only drink real colas, caffeine-packed energy drinks, or Vitamin Water. Hate champagne, because that's what everyone expects you to love. Energy drinks are the best party drinks. You never get tired. You never have a hangover. And you can make fun of all the loaded people who think they're clever but are really acting stupid.

20 FEAR NOTHING — EXCEPT INSECTS. And sweaty guys who insist on kissing you when they come up to say hello. There's nothing worse than a sweaty guy who kisses you on both cheeks. Once is bad enough, but to have to go through it twice is really two times too much.

21 NEVER BE PREDICTABLE. Always surprise people. That way, they will never get tired of you.

22 IF THE MEDIA PLAYS WITH YOU, WELL, PLAY WITH THEM. I went on Saturday Night Live soon after my name was in the headlines every day for something I wasn't too proud of, and which had really upset my family. On "Weekend Update" with Jimmy Fallon, the script had him asking me, "Is it hard to get a room in the Paris Hilton? Is it roomy?" and he wanted to cut it. But I wouldn't let him. No way. That was the funniest line. And I got the upper hand with the media the moment he said it on national TV. That's when it all clicked and things started to change. People knew I could laugh at myself, and that one bad incident was not going to make me lock myself in my room.

23 LAST BUT NOT LEAST: MAKE FUN OF YOURSELF. NEVER TAKE YOURSELF, OR RULES, TOO SERIOUSLY (see all above rules).

[Kurosawa Fan]

I don't know, man. Being called a whore by people who probably mean it will still hurt regardless, but that doesn't mean she can't be good humored about her image and exploit it for her own profits.

Personally, I find this list she wrote in her book rather brilliant. Especially the first one.

First off, David Letterman never said anything of the sort, he wanted to talk to her about her time in jail, and she just sat there pouting. Silverman, sure, but she was doing a quick routine and if you have a sense of humor about yourself, you laugh along with it, you don't look like you're on the verge of tears.

Second, I don't think she wrote that. Maybe she came up with some of the ideas, but I'd be willing to guess she got a lot of help.

[number8]

First off, David Letterman never said anything of the sort, he wanted to talk to her about her time in jail, and she just sat there pouting. Silverman, sure, but she was doing a quick routine and if you have a sense of humor about yourself, you laugh along with it, you don't look like you're on the verge of tears.

Oh. Well, I'm afraid I don't know these incidents or the particulars. I thought you were just being general.


Second, I don't think she wrote that. Maybe she came up with some of the ideas, but I'd be willing to guess she got a lot of help.Probably *. Still, that's not the point. She attached her name to it.

*On second thought, let me retract that. I don't know her personally, so I wouldn't know what she is or isn't capable of or how funny she is. She could have written all of them personally. I don't want to hazard a guess, but I have no problem assuming that she can be witty.

[Mara]

Psh, enough Paris.



That wee lassie from Spy Kids sure grew up, didn't she?

[number8]

I'd rather talk about how awesome Bill Moseley is.

[Mara]

I'd rather talk about how awesome Bill Moseley is.

It may be silly to say about a film... you know, like this... but he felt underdeveloped to me. (Luigi is angry!)

Apparently, though, he is one of those actors that carries cool with him into whatever part he plays (like Bruce Campbell.)

[Spinal]

It may be silly to say about a film... you know, like this... but he felt underdeveloped to me. (Luigi is angry!)

A fair criticism. His siblings both seem to be more clearly defined, although Moseley does get in some good humorous moments.

[Spaceman Spiff]

Saw this the other day through the pestering of my younger sisters.

Some interesting ideas here, and (knowing nothing about the plot) I found the story to be quite compelling, but much of the music and acting was shrill in the extreme. Maybe that was the point, but it's a point that didn't sit right with me.

Not awful, but fairly meh.

[The Mike]

Mara you are a prime candidate to like the Val Lewton horror films of the 1940s, and the more supernatural/atmospheric horror pictures of the 1950s and 1960s. I'd advise staying away from 1970s horror, and the 80s altogether.

While I agree with this in general (Lewton's I Walked with a Zombie and The Body Snatcher are good choices, and Jack Clayton's The Innocents is ESSENTIAL), I wouldn't dismiss the 70s so quickly. If you can avoid Craven and the exploitation flicks of the decade, there's a lot there to dig (Methinks any Repo! fan should dig The Abominable Dr. Phibes, Theater of Blood, and Phantom of the Paradise, especially). Also, it seems like Hammer horror (pre-1970, starting with Horror of Dracula) might be a good choice too.

Sorry, can't let anyone make a blanket statement about horror without chiming. :twisted:

[MadMan]

While I agree with this in general (Lewton's I Walked with a Zombie and The Body Snatcher are good choices, and Jack Clayton's The Innocents is ESSENTIAL), I wouldn't dismiss the 70s so quickly. If you can avoid Craven and the exploitation flicks of the decade, there's a lot there to dig (Methinks any Repo! fan should dig The Abominable Dr. Phibes, Theater of Blood, and Phantom of the Paradise, especially). Also, it seems like Hammer horror (pre-1970, starting with Horror of Dracula) might be a good choice too.

Sorry, can't let anyone make a blanket statement about horror without chiming. :twisted:True, but I'm still not sure if Mara would like those films you listed either, as they also have gore and violence. I was trying to suggest old school horror that was the opposite of what she seems to not like :P

But I approve of your selections. Especially "Phibes," which is just awesome.

[The Mike]

True, but I'm still not sure if Mara would like those films you listed either, as they also have gore and violence. I was trying to suggest old school horror that was the opposite of what she seems to not like :P

But I approve of your selections. Especially "Phibes," which is just awesome.

Well, I was going off of the "compared to the gore and violence of Repo!, these are similarly themed and tame" principle. I mean, if those things were a deal breaker, she wouldn't have liked this one, so HA!:P :P

Double Smiley wins. :evil:

[MadMan]

Well, I was going off of the "compared to the gore and violence of Repo!, these are similarly themed and tame" principle. I mean, if those things were a deal breaker, she wouldn't have liked this one, so HA!:P :P

Double Smiley wins. :evil:Um, okay? :pritch:

And hey the This! Channel is showing Dr. Phibes Rises Again tomorrow. I will try to watch it. At least I think that's what its called...

[Russ]

Also, every time the GraveRobber showed up, I said "SWEET!" out loud.

Even though I was alone.

That's the sign of a good movie.
You weren't alone. I thought Zdunich pretty much stole the show whenever he was on screen. Wish he were featured a bit more.

I didn't mind the comic panel transitions since they were brief, well-done, and condensed a lot of exposition in just a few panels. Tonally, they fit right in. My favorite musical number was Zydrate Anatomy, tho I suspect I'll get even more out of the rest on future viewings (didn't know it was 99% singing). Watched it with subtitles the first viewing, which I would highly recommend because you'd otherwise miss quite a bit of the overlapping dialogue.

Much better than I expected. Infectious and very well-made.

EDIT: And was it just me, or did that 17 number (which I liked a lot) seem a wee bit out of place?

[Spinal]

EDIT: And was it just me, or did that 17 number (which I liked a lot) seem a wee bit out of place?

Yeah, I'd agree with this. They talk a lot in the commentary about how they had to make tough decisions about songs to cut to get down to the desired run-time. Seems like that one could have easily gone and not affect the film much at all. I'm guessing they wanted to hold on to it because of Joan Jett.

[Sycophant]

I'll catch up with the rest of the thread later.

I liked this. I wish some of the songs had been a bit better, since about a third were memorable and pretty awesome, a third were passable, and a third kinda stunk.

But seriously. Dug this.

[The Mike]

I've totally decided I need to show this to people I know, but am kind of scared how they'll respond.

Regardless, I just can't keep it secret too much longer.

[Spinal]

I'll catch up with the rest of the thread later.

I liked this. I wish some of the songs had been a bit better, since about a third were memorable and pretty awesome, a third were passable, and a third kinda stunk.

But seriously. Dug this.

All I can say is that I felt the same way about the music the first time I watched it and that a repeat viewing really helped my opinion of it.

[BuffaloWilder]

I'm going to cautiously watch this, soon. If you're wrong about this, Match-Cut, I'm going to track you down and kick you in the face

[Sycophant]

I'm pretty resistent to camp, so I'm very happy that this film gave me something beyond that. I was worried it would be winking at me the whole time, but for the most part, the movie was so obsessed with what it was doing and that it was doing it that it was completely disinterested in pandering to what it would expect its audience to want.

The comic book transitions really seemed to work for the backstories for the characters, but Lord, the one right near the end,
where Nathan kills his way to the stage
felt so we-didn't-have-the-money-for-this that it kind of stung a bit.

I honestly wouldn't have minded this running a little longer, especially since they apparently cut some numbers, and especially if those numbers featured the Grave Robber.

[eternity]

I'm pretty resistent to camp, so I'm very happy that this film gave me something beyond that. I was worried it would be winking at me the whole time, but for the most part, the movie was so obsessed with what it was doing and that it was doing it that it was completely disinterested in pandering to what it would expect its audience to want.

The comic book transitions really seemed to work for the backstories for the characters, but Lord, the one right near the end,
where Nathan kills his way to the stage
felt so we-didn't-have-the-money-for-this that it kind of stung a bit.

I honestly wouldn't have minded this running a little longer, especially since they apparently cut some numbers, and especially if those numbers featured the Grave Robber.

In short, fuck you, Lionsgate.

[Dead & Messed Up]

I am bumping this thread purely because I'm looking at my original middling judgment and shaking my head. This movie is such a blast, so completely committed to its cause that any problems get blasted away with the infectious enthusiasm of the whole damn show. So much fun. A tornado of entrails and arias.

Repeat viewings helped.

[MadMan]

I would love to see this movie again. More horror musicals, please.

[Spinal]

I am bumping this thread purely because I'm looking at my original middling judgment and shaking my head. This movie is such a blast, so completely committed to its cause that any problems get blasted away with the infectious enthusiasm of the whole damn show. So much fun. A tornado of entrails and arias.

Repeat viewings helped.

Completely agree.

[Spinal]

More horror musicals, please.

The Evil Dead musical is pretty hilarious. They should have made a film out of that instead of the stupid Diablo Cody reboot idea.

[MadMan]

The Evil Dead musical is pretty hilarious. They should have made a film out of that instead of the stupid Diablo Cody reboot idea.I would go see that movie, easily. What's funny is that the Cody reboot won't make that much money, so they might as well have gone really low budget and done a musical.

[Spinal]

I watched this again last night on Netflix. I don't know that I know of another movie that feels as much like a rough draft as this one. It reminds me of a film restoration project where they've lost some of the original scenes in an Argentine vault somewhere. Even most of the songs are like sketches of ideas rather than fully fleshed out songs. And yet, even if only about 25-30% of the movie really works well, I love it all the same. The misfit cast. The reckless tonal shifts. The trashy aesthetic. Something about it is utterly endearing.

[number8]

Pretty much.