Since its debut in 1975, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has defied expectations, emerging as the longest-running theatrical film in history. The film’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its iconic soundtrack, campy humor, and a passionate cult audience. To commemorate its 50th anniversary, Disney/20th Century Studios will unveil a newly restored 4K HDR version in October, alongside special deluxe editions on DVD and Blu-ray. Additionally, the film’s legacy will be explored in two documentaries: Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror and Sane Inside Insanity: The Phenomenon of Rocky Horror.
(Spoilers ahead, but it’s been 50 years.)
Adapted from Richard O’Brien‘s 1973 stage musical The Rocky Horror Show, the film reflects his admiration for science fiction and B-grade horror films. The opening number, “Science Fiction/Double Feature,” references classic genre films such as 1951’s The Day the Earth Stood Still and Flash Gordon (1936). O’Brien, who was then a struggling actor, crafted the musical as a tribute to his childhood influences.
The stage production enjoyed a successful six-year run in London and gained popularity in Los Angeles, but its New York premiere was less favorable. At that time, the film adaptation was already underway, with O’Brien co-writing the screenplay and portraying Riff Raff, the hunchbacked butler. Jim Sharman, the director, retained much of the London cast but introduced American actors Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon as Brad and Janet, respectively. Much of the filming took place at Oakley Court, a Victorian Gothic manor in Berkshire, England, which had previously been the set for various Hammer horror films.
The film begins with the wholesome couple Brad and Janet attending a wedding and awkwardly getting engaged. Their plans to visit their high school science teacher, Dr. Scott (Jonathan Adams), are interrupted by car trouble, leaving them stranded in the rain. Seeking shelter to make a phone call, they arrive at a castle owned by the flamboyant, transvestite mad scientist Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), who zealously welcomes them into his eccentric domain.
Frank-N-Furter soon reveals his creation, Rocky Horror (Peter Hinwood), an imposing figure clad in gold speedos. Rocky possesses the physique of a Greek god but has the mental capacity of a child, as he shares half a brain with Eddie (Meat Loaf), a rebellious biker who provides some comic chaos before meeting a grisly end at Frank’s hands.
As the story unfolds, sexual dynamics shift dramatically. Frank bedazzles his guests by seducing both Janet and Brad in quick succession, leading to a whirlwind of partner swapping. Tensions escalate when Dr. Scott arrives for Rocky’s birthday dinner to discover that the main course is Eddie’s remains. The situation turns bizarre when Frank employs a freeze ray, transforming his guests into marble statues clad in suggestive cabaret attire before forcing them to perform.
The narrative takes another twist as Riff Raff and Magenta (Patricia Quinn), Frank’s loyal butler and maid, expose their true nature as aliens from the planet Transsexual, Transylvania. They exact revenge on Frank for his excesses and make their escape in a spaceship that was disguised as the castle itself, leaving a dazed Brad, Janet, and Dr. Scott behind.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show was first released in London on August 14, 1975, alongside other international screenings but was quickly retracted due to poor audience turnout. A planned Halloween debut in New York City was also canceled. The film’s fate changed when the studio repositioned it as a midnight movie, similar to other counterculture classics like Pink Flamingos (1972) and Reefer Madness (1933).
This new approach allowed Rocky Horror to find its niche audience, especially at New York City’s Waverly Theater, where an enthusiastic cult following blossomed. Fans began to attend screenings regularly, dressing up, and performing live reactions—a practice known as shadow casting—which became a hallmark of the experience. These interactive elements deepened the bond between the film and its viewers, creating a unique community.
Why has Rocky Horror maintained its appeal over the decades? Linus O’Brien, director of Strange Journey and Richard O’Brien’s son, attributes much of its success to the music. He believes the soundtrack is among the greatest ever composed, highlighting its catchy tunes that invite audience participation. Iconic songs like “The Time Warp,” and Frank-N-Furter’s entrance with “Sweet Transvestite,” stand out for their infectious melodies.
O’Brien also praises Tim Curry’s standout performance, alongside the blend of bodybuilding, science fiction, and rock and roll themes that permeate the musical. The fusion of these elements contributes to the film’s deep resonance across generations, reflecting the struggles of individuals feeling marginalized or different within society.
Shadow casting
Gia Milinovich, a writer and TV presenter originally from the U.S., experienced Rocky Horror in her youth at a revival cinema in Minnesota. After seeing it for the first time in 1984, Milinovich moved to London in 1987, where she formed her shadow cast, taking on the role of Frank-N-Furter.
“The moment Frank-N-Furter threw off his cape felt like a religious experience. It opened a world for me,” Milinovich shared with Ars. “I became obsessed with the film, which created an electrifying atmosphere every time I attended a screening.”
Today, Milinovich remains engaged with the Rocky Horror community, recalling her days of shadow casting fondly. “It’s like a unique form of theater. We were pioneering cosplay before it even existed,” she said, emphasizing the importance of crafting accurate costumes to match the film’s details.
The interactive atmosphere often spills into the audience, allowing attendees to contribute by dressing in costumes or creating props without any need for permission. The boundary between performers and the audience blurs, fostering a sense of belonging and unity in the experience.
During the late 1980s, dressing as characters from Rocky Horror was not always socially accepted. Milinovich notes that wearing costumes like Columbia’s in public could be risky at that time. Contemporary audiences may find it more acceptable today, yet the film’s themes of expression and identity still resonate powerfully.
Despite facing criticism over the years, the essence of Rocky Horror lies not in conventional cinematic judgment but rather in its vibrant, interactive audience experience. “I cannot separate the movie from the collective involvement in the theater. I wouldn’t opt to watch it at home as I’ve seen it countless times; rehearsing always took place during home viewings,” Milinovich added.
The documentary Strange Journey showcases the cult following of Rocky Horror, culminating with a fan affirming to Richard O’Brien that the film belongs to them, to which he wholeheartedly agrees. “Art evolves and takes on new significance,” Linus O’Brien explained, citing how Richard O’Brien’s comedic creation stemmed from his youthful passion for various pop culture phenomena.
“While he wasn’t aware at the time, it became clear through comments reflecting how deeply Rocky impacted lives—it saved them,” Linus said. It’s echoed by personal anecdotes from fans, such as soldiers using the film as a source of comfort and solace in challenging times.
As He reflects on its legacy, Linus O’Brien concludes, “Rocky has not just entertained; it has created safe spaces for marginalized communities, provoking emotional connections that persist today. Therefore, it’s a significant cultural artifact to celebrate.”
