The Rocky Horror Picture Show
“It's not easy having a good time! Even smiling makes my face ache!”
When we started our Alejandro Jodorowsky series last year, we began a loose exploration of the history of the Midnight Movies phenomenon of the 1970s (as documented in J. Hoberman and Jonathan Rosenbaum's fantastic book on the subject).
Before we wrap up that discussion with David Lynch's ERASERHEAD (coming soon!), we couldn't skip past what is probably the most iconic Midnight Movie of all time, THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW.
What started as a small stage production in an experiemental theater space in London quickly grew to a worldwide phenomenon and is, to this day, the longest running continuous theatrical release of all time.
In this episode, we trace ROCKY HORROR's entire history, from its early days on the London stage through its move across the pond to the US, its disastrous original theatrical run, and its eventual rise as the most impactful Cult Film of all time.
You may think you already know everything about THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW, but on this episode, we'll give you the full story behind this legendary movie.
SYNOPSIS:
Sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a transvestite scientist. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler. Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named 'Rocky'.
Up Next: David Lynch: Episode 1.
CAST & CREW
Directed by: Jim Sharman
Screenplay by: Richard O’Brien | Jim Sharman
Based on: The Rocky Horror Show by Richard O’Brien
Produced by: Lou Adler | Michael White
Cast: Tim Curry | Susan Sarandon | Barry Bostwick | Richard O’Brien | Patricia Quinn | Little Nell | Jonathan Adams | Peter Hinwood | Meat Loaf | Charles Gray
Cinematography: Peter Suschitzky
Edited by: Graeme Clifford
Music by: Richard Hartley
Songs: Richard O’Brien
Release Date: August 14, 1975 (UK) | September 26, 1975 (USA)
Theme Song: "There's Still a Little Bit of Time, If We Hurry and I Mean Hurry" by Slasher Film Festival Strategy.
This episode was written, produced and edited by Gary Horne, Justin Bishop & Todd A. Davis.
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