I can remember first hearing about the Rocky Horror Picture Show as a kid. My parents had a copy on VHS. I would try to stealthily creep down the stairs to catch a glimpse of the movie I was forbidden to watch. I remember sneaking around the corner and listening to the songs, just out of my parents’ sight. Although I didn’t quite understand all of it, their laughter suggested it was something I could not miss. Of course, as soon as I was old enough to watch it, I did and became an instant fan!
For those who may be unfamiliar, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is a quirky cult classic that debuted in 1975 on film and was based upon a 1973 musical production. Pardon the pun, but to say it had a rocky start is an understatement. The story line centers upon a young couple in need of assistance. They find their way to a creepy castle and are greeted by an oddball ensemble of attendees at a convention led by the mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter, originally played by Tim Curry . Dr. Frank- N-Furter describes himself as a “sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania.” Seduction, murder, hilarity and mayhem ensue as the couple discovers that Dr. Frank-N-Furter is not quite of this world and nothing in the castle is like anything they have ever encountered before.
Upon release “The Rock Horror Picture Show” was considered an epic fail. However, it was given new life when it was shown as a “midnight movie” as a promotional ploy at New York’s Waverly Theater (now called the IFC Center). Fans began to watch the film regularly and by regularly, I mean every single week! It wasn’t long before the regular audience began to organically interact with the film by dressing as the characters, shouting out lines, singing along and bringing props to the theater. It became an underground classic with showings all over the country and was known for the antics of the audience during the show. It is now considered the longest running movie in theaters. A live interactive theater viewing of the show is an absolute blast, but be prepared to be sprayed with water and surrounded by rambunctious behavior and raucous laughter. Leave the kids at home; the content is explicit.
Now if this isn’t enough to strike up your curiosity, here’s an added gem; “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” will be rebooted featuring none other than the fabulous Emmy-nominated Laverne Cox as Dr. Frank-N- Furter. Cox is a transsexual actress who shot to fame in her role as ‘Sophia Burset’ on the hit Netflix series “Orange is The New Black.” Since launching her acting career into the stratosphere, Cox has made a name for herself as an advocate, sought after-speaker and fashionista. And while some are critical about Cox’s ability to pull off the character, I believe she will do a fantastic job.
I am so excited that the news is out. I am so honored to be a part of the Rocky Horror legacy.… https://t.co/5guzt7WTyd
— Laverne Cox (@Lavernecox) October 22, 2015
The reboot will be airing on Fox in the fall of 2016. If you haven’t seen the movie before, be sure to watch a copy of the original for comparison. And for those die-hard fans, this may be the perfect opportunity to throw an outrageous watch party. You and your guests will be doing the “Time Warp” again in no time!
