Debuting Sept. 26, 1975, “Rocky Horror Picture Show” debuted in the box offices only to end up being a dismal failure with a passionate midnight audience.
Directed by Jim Sharman and delivered to audiences by 20th Century Fox, “Rocky Horror” is not to be misled by its horror genre tag, the film is a spectacle of science-fiction and musical prowess all in one.
The darling newlywed heterosexual couple Brad and Janet’s journey is where the film begins. On their passage to a friend’s home after their wedding, they get caught in the rain and stumble upon a large castle in the woods.
Looking to use a phone within the castle to update their friend, they’re greeted by Riff-Raff. A man with a posture that resembles that of Quasimodo from William Dieterle’s “Hunchback of Notre Dame,” with perfect platinum blonde hair that recedes to the crown of his head.
Riff-Raff is the couple’s introduction to the absurdity that resides in this castle such as Columbia, a sparkling showgirl and Magenta the maid of the castle who adorns Victorian makeup.
There are simply too many types of characters to describe within this film, but each were just as freaky as they were fabulous. The most important character to discuss would be Dr. Frank-N-Furter.
Self-described as a “sweet transgender from transexual Transylvania,” Dr. Frank-N-Furter is everything right with this film.
Jaunting around clad in lingerie, Dr. Frank-N-Furter guides Brad and Janet through his laboratory, committing murders, unveiling creations and demonstrating seduction techniques. The acting of each character in any given scene couldn’t be better and adds to the films charm.
It’s dramatic, tear-jerking, insane and you simply can’t tear your eyes away. And the fashion of it all makes sure you don’t.
“Rocky Horror Picture Show” is everything you’d expect, or least expect, from a cult-classic film.
An absolute bonus is just how catchy every song they perform is. From the classic “Time Warp,” to “I Can Make you a Man,” to the inspiring prose of “Don’t Dream It, Be It,” from “Rose Tint My World.”
Here’s the rub, however: the large crowds of 1970 weren’t ready for “Rocky Horror.” This isn’t to say everyone was displeased.
The midnight showings of this film began shortly thereafter, gaining a queer following that found a place to belong dressing up and acting out the scenes of the film while they played. Others joined too, of course, everyone wanted a spot to be themselves after work where no judgement was allowed.
As of 2026, there are playhouses, such as Bucks County Playhouse, who create and perform their versions of “Rocky Horror” annually nearly every Halloween season.
If there was enjoyment in simply watching the film, going to the play amplifies it tenfold.
Tony Rogers, journalism professor and enjoyer of the motion-picture show, said he “used to go see it all the time in college, and it’s great the tradition is continuing with the next generation.”
“Rocky Horror Picture Show” is one of the most entertaining films to come from 1970, let alone holding its own 51 years later.
The acting, music, costumes, makeup, set design and passion of it all truly makes this motion-picture show one of a kind in every possible way.
10/10