By the time the movie begins, organ transplants and other general surgeries remain in huge demand, but have transformed into a largely cosmetic craze as one GeneCo-funded ad to help clients “build a sexier X-ray” advertises, “It’s what’s on the inside that counts!” The payment plans are still extensive and expensive, but they now come with a little added kick. After an epidemic of organ failure swept the planet (no explanation is provided as to why), a company called GeneCo became rich and powerful off of organ transplants, which are paid for with tempting long-term payment plans.

The film takes place in a time period only specified to be the “not-so-distant future,” though signs in the background indicate that the 2030s have come and gone. The less than Oscar-worthy performances can’t fairly be dubbed their fault, though - it’s hard to imagine what a well-acted role would even look like, within this ludicrous ninety-seven-minute script. (Except, perhaps, Paris Hilton, who reportedly forced her way into a “Repo!” audition and blew the directors away, overpowering their previous reluctance to cast her because of potential sensationalist reactions from the press, according to MTV News and The Playlist). However, none of these celebrities really get the chance to show off their full potential here. This surprisingly star-studded movie features socialite Paris Hilton, Alexa PenaVega (“Spy Kids”), Anthony Stewart Head (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”), Sarah Brightman (originator of the role of Christine in “Phantom of the Opera”), and even Joan Jett, who has a cameo on guitar during one song. Amber Sweet (Paris Hilton) with Repo! lyrics, art by Jo Moses

Repo the genetic rock opera