The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) directed by Jim Sharman – A Film Review

A cult classic for the ages, The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a fun extraverted tour de force work of musical mayhem and madness. A science fiction rock opera and musical like no other, it has certainly left an impact on the pop culture psyche. But the question still remains: how does this forty-year-old film play to the modern audience? Well, let’s find out.

On a dark and stormy night, a young, newly engaged couple’s car brakes down. In search of a telephone to call for help, they head to an old gothic manor. What they find there is a bizarre party of people led by Dr Frank N. Furter (Tim Curry). As they attempt to get access to a phone, Brad and Janet are dragged through a series of odd scenarios and soon discover that all is not as it seems in the old house.

The film itself plays as a loving homage to science fiction B movies and 50’s rock and roll. It plays with clichés in its own tongue in cheek style, whilst still paying a genuine tribute to them. What Rocky Horror does different to the films that inspired it however, is play with these underlying elements. It plays up to the camp and silliness of the B movies that came before it. Frank N. Furter isn’t just a mad scientist who try’s to create life in defiance of nature; instead he tries to create the perfect being to satisfy his own sexual desires. Brad and Janet aren’t just the typical all American teenagers, they’re stupidly naive to the point of absurdity. Furthermore, Frank N. Furter’s scientist assistants like Riff Raff aren’t just mysterious or scary, they’re intentionally antagonistic, almost miffed in just having to be in the presence of others.

In terms of the actor’s performances, everyone does a fantastic job: although Tim Curry as Dr Frank N. Furter is the main standout. He oozes sexual charisma in his role as the “sweet transvestite”, commanding attention on screen like no other. Richard O’Brien as Riff Raff also does a tremendous job here: whilst the rest of the cast all have there time to shine too.

Visually the film is fun and vibrant. There’s an energetic tone to the whole movie that keeps you hooked from start to finish; like a rollercoaster ride keeping it’s passengers at the edge of their seats. At times the story wonders into moments of irreverence but what stays constant is the euphoric sense of enjoyment each musical number produces in the audience.

On the whole The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cool, excitingly unique film. Unlike other musicals, it isn’t afraid to let loose and poke fun at it’s own clichés. It’s loud, brash, out and proud. It has a knowing and confident sense of self that is very appealing (attractive even) to its audience. At 41 years old, the movie feels as fresh and vibrant as it ever did. And because of its brazen uniqueness it has (and forever will have) earned its place in the pop culture canon.