The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975): A Cult Classic

Let’s do the time warp again!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show thrilled the big screen in 1975. When their car breaks down in a storm one night, engaged couple Brad and Janet stumble upon the castle of the eccentric Dr. Frank-N-Furter. What follows is a night of chaotic events and self-discovery.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a campy and outrageous movie that has gained a cult following over time. Some things about it have not aged well, particularly with its sexual themes. Beneath its absurd and sensual layers, Rocky Horror is about embracing your most authentic identity.

I had no idea that the amazingly talented Tim Curry was strutting his way into his debut performance as the flamboyant Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Curry was warned not to take the role out of fear that it would hurt his career. Curry was respectful of this deviant character. Frank has been a positive symbol in the LGBTQ+ community to be unafraid of one's identity.

Brad and Janet (Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon) are the unlucky (or lucky) houseguests who have no idea what to make of all the shenanigans. They perfectly balance the absurdity as the naive couple who gain a new understanding about their relationship. Fun fact: Sarandon was sick with pneumonia throughout most of filming.

Rocky Horror is filled with colorful characters, like Riff Raff (Richard O’Brien), Magenta (Patricia Quinn), Columbia (Nell Campbell), Dr. Everett Scott (Jonathan Adams), Rocky (Peter Hinwood), and Eddie (Meat Loaf).

One reason why Rocky Horror has endured a legacy is its electrifying rock music, which was written by Richard O’Brien. The dance number “Time Warp” is considered to be one of the most iconic scenes. I have been dancing it in my own theater production, and this fast-paced dance is tons of fun!

Jim Sharman previously directed the stage version before signing on to direct this film. It was not an easy shoot, with only five weeks of filming. They had to improvise due to a shoestring budget.

I enjoy learning about behind-the-scenes of movies, and Rocky Horror has several stories. The film was shot during a rather cold autumn in Bray, England. The cold temperatures didn’t abide well for the actors do to their limited clothing.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show has come a long way, from bombing at the box office to becoming a cult classic, with several fans dressing up in exotic outfits to see screenings. Some parts have not aged well, but this movie has created much discussion.

Even years later, Sharman says he’s still unsure why the film is a hit with fans. You never know who's a fan of this film, like the late Princess Diana, who was so excited that she got the chance to meet Curry after the film.

I first watched the film when I was 13 years old, and I didn’t understand its popularity. This is the exact reason why we need to rewatch movies, especially as adults. Now performing in my own production of “Rocky Horror Show,” it has helped me develop a newfound appreciation of what this movie is all about.

The line “Don’t dream it, be it,” is more important than you think. It’s a story about self-reflection and embracing one's identity. Be happy with who you are. Sprinkle a touch of your unique self on the world and be a leader.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is not suitable for all audiences. If you’d like a new movie this October, give Rocky Horror a chance. Seeing it in theaters is a worthy experience to witness the ecstatic audience reaction.