Set in Los Angeles in the late 1970's, the story begins when Paul Beahm amd George Ruthenberg, driven by drugs, music and rebellion, became determined to make their mark on society. Paul adopted the name Darby Crash, George became Pat Smear, and Terry Ryan, a girl they met while stalking Freddie Mercury, became bassist Lorna Doom. They called themselves The Germs because, according to Darby, everything starts from a germ and these Germs were going to start everything. And, very quickly, The Germs became the chaotic beating heart of an equally chaotic scene.

The Germs performed blistering shows that often left destroyed clubs and were banned from every club in the city. As the scene grew more violent and Darby sank deeper into drugs, the band broke up and Darby escaped to London. When he returned to LA in 1980 he reunited The Germs and played a torrid, sold-out show that is still remembered as their best ever. Then, sealing his rightful place in the pantheon of icons, Darby followed through on his five year plan to become a legendary hero, killing himself with an overdose of heroin. He was twenty-one years old.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential punk bands in history, numerous bands have recorded tributes to The Germs, including Courtney Love and Hole, Dave Navarro (Jane's Addiction), Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Mike D (Beastie Boys) Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth), L7 (Slash recording artist). Pat Smear later achieved international stardom playing for bands Nirvana and the Foo Fighters.

Twenty five years later, after a smash Los Angeles show to celebrate the completion of shooting on WHAT WE DO IS SECRET, The Germs have reunited once again, making actor Shane West their new lead singer. They are currently planning a series of upcoming tour dates around the world.