SMALLS' FRIGHT FEST: ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW

"I would like, if I may, to take you on a strange journey."

In 1975 a movie was released that would make waves, divide audiences, and ultimately change the world. The film was called The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a unique motion picture that most critics didn't like at the time. Almost immediately upon release, the film gained a cult following through interactive midnight shows and the cult continues to grow and expand to this day. Much controversy and talk has always surrounded this film, from the day it opened to today. What is all the talk about?

In Rocky Horror, we follow young virginal couple, Brad Majors (Barry Bostwick) and Janet Weiss (Susan Sarandon in what is arguably her most memorable role). On the night that Brad pops the question, they decide to go visit their old college professor Dr. Everett Scott (Jonathan Adams). On the way there, they get caught with a flat and are forced to seek shelter from an intense storm.  They find presumed safety inside a mysterious castle owned by the eccentric and flamboyant Dr. Frank-N-Furter (The always fantastic Tim Curry). During the night, Brad and Janet come face to face with dark temptation that threatens to corrupt them both. Along for the wild ride is Rocky (Peter Hinwood); Frank's creation with the body of a body builder; Riff Raff (Richard O'Brien, who created the Rocky Horror Show which this film is based on.) and Magenta (Patricia Quinn); Frank's servants who are brother and sister; Columbia (Nell Campbell); one of Frank's groupies; and Eddie (Meat Loaf); a rock n roll loving ex-delivery boy. Our guide through the ensuing crazy events is a criminologist-turned-narrator (Charles Gray).

Tim Curry is the star of the show here as the completely insane but still lovable Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a mad scientist and party host that spends his time as a transvestite. He is a fun character that enjoys continually breaking the fourth wall (he looks directly at the audience, and even acknowledges us at times) and seeing how far he can push Brad and Janet until they finally give. This is without a doubt Curry's best role,and he tackles it with glee, humor, and a complete lack of fear (he even seems to enjoy the effeminate outfits he gets to wear). He throws himself out there and goes-for-broke with his portrayal of Frank, and it works. Even those who don't enjoy the film will have to admit his acting here is some of his best. Frank isn't the only memorable character here though, in fact all the characters here are classics, like Riff Raff, who is my personal favorite character here with his hump, crazy voice, and perfect acting. Riff Raff certainly makes a lasting impression, and he tends to be a fan favorite (also love his character arc).

Why is Rocky Horror so controversial? It's simple, really. The whole controversy can be summed up in one word: sex. Rocky Horror is a film that is all about sex, exploring your own sexuality,and having fun while experimenting with new extreme lifestyles. The film contains heavy themes of cross-dressing, homosexuality, perversion, and incest. I can easily understand why some are turned off  by this film, but it can not be denied that watching Rocky Horror either during a midnight show or at your own home is a fun experience that is quite unlike anything else.

I've been to a Rocky Horror midnight show, so I'm not a Rocky Horror virgin anymore (yes, there is an initiation you have to go through in order to get your "cherry popped"). The crowds that go tend to be dressed in different crazed outfits including some inspired by the film. The audience is encouraged to yell at the screen, make comments, sing-along, dance, and even throw stuff and interact with the film. It's basically a big, long party with people that are there to celebrate something they love. It's a great environment to be stuck in for several hours.

Rocky Horror Picture Show is a fun film to watch. The songs are some of the best and are extremely memorable (this is the film that created The Time Warp, just to name one), all the characters are screen classics, the castle/mansion the film takes place in is a great setting with wacky set pieces and rooms inside,  and the story itself is great. Rocky Horror may turn quite a few off, but I'm happy to say that I am part of that ever-growing cult that shamelessly loves this film and everything about it. It's not just a send-up of sci-fi B films like it looks like it's going to be for the first 20 minutes, it's also a sexual fable and something else entirely. If you do decide to check out this film (I would highly recommend you do so), tread carefully. This film is extremely sexual and focuses on a lot of deviant themes, but that's not to say you won't like it...at least, let's hope you do. For myself, Rocky Horror Picture Show continues to be a fully satisfying and super fun experience I always enjoy getting to re-watch. It's also an ABSOLUTE MUST during the Halloween season.

5 STARS