‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ Creator on SXSW Documentary About the Musical’s Legacy and Political Relevance: ‘I Weep For America’

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Originally intended for a short stint in a small experimental theater space above London’s Royal Court Theatre, “The Rocky Horror Show” unexpectedly celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, drawing large audiences. Fervent admirers have sustained the production through its moves to the West End and Broadway, as well as after the musical was adapted into a film. In fact, you might find a late-night screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at a cinema in your area this weekend.

Richard O’Brien, the author and songwriter of the unexpected success, acknowledges that no one anticipated its popularity. As an unemployed actor, he merged his passion for science-fiction, B-movies, and glam rock into a timeless musical sensation. (He portrayed Riff Raff in the movie too.) “No one was aiming for stardom,” he admits. “We were there for amusement. It’s essentially a frivolous piece of nonsense – deliberately so. It’s a reflection of our youth and immaturity.

82-year-old O’Brien recently had the opportunity to ponder over the creation of “Rocky Horror” and reminisce on its impact through “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror,” a documentary directed by his son, Linus O’Brien. This film premieres at SXSW on March 9. It was Linus who came up with the idea for the movie while putting together a gift compilation of his father’s work. While doing so, he discovered YouTube clips of “I’m Going Home,” an emotional ballad from the show where Tim Curry’s character, Dr. Frank-N-Furter (a trans scientist), expresses feelings of being misjudged.

As a movie enthusiast, I found the comments beneath that video to be deeply moving and sincere, even heart-wrenching at times. It had never occurred to me just how profoundly ‘Rocky’ impacted people’s lives until I read those heartfelt messages.

To assess the influence of the show, Linus O’Brien journeyed worldwide, speaking with notables such as Curry (a mainstay in “Rocky Horror’s” stage and screen versions), its producer Lou Adler, and Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick, who portrayed the innocent couple Brad and Janet in the film. Having grown up with the show, visiting his father behind-the-scenes and on set during the musical’s filming, proved advantageous when it came time for O’Brien to converse with the numerous artists who contributed significantly to the production throughout its history.

He mentions that the show played a significant role in his younger years. When he encountered those same people after forty years, there was an immediate connection.

For Richard O’Brien, reuniting the band was like recognizing how long it had been since Curry first wore Frank-N-Furter’s lace garter belt and Sarandon performed the Time Warp. “It was a shock,” he admits. “In your mind, everyone remains the same age. I still picture us as teenagers.

The documentary reveals that when it initially premiered in London, “Rocky Horror” was an edgy, trendy, and provocative production – a sparkling counterpoint to the prevalent kitchen sink dramas on U.K. stages during the 1960s. It retained its rebellious essence as it moved to America and transitioned to cinema, attracting stars like John Lennon and Mick Jagger at its film premieres. The narrative of a naive couple who become lost en route home and wander into a mysterious castle hosting a wild party challenged traditional genres and presented a sex-positive perspective. It neither condemned nor judged the characters’ quirks and desires; instead, it celebrated them.

Richard O’Brien laments that societal views on sexual orientation and gender fluidity haven’t progressed as much as he hoped since the show’s debut in 1973. He observes a regressive trend globally, but notably in the United States, where the election of Donald Trump seems to have fueled a new surge of anti-transgender legislation.

“Authoritarianism has taken over,” he says. “It’s a huge disappointment. I weep for America.”

Linus O’Brien concurs with his father, expressing that one might expect ‘Rocky’ to be an antiquated piece by now. Yet, its continued relevance in certain aspects is somewhat disheartening. Still, it may provide a sense of belonging and recognition for those who feel like outsiders.

Back in 1975, when “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” was produced on a budget of just $1.4 million, it initially faced criticism and seemed to be heading for obscurity at the box office. But little did they know, this quirky film would soon capture the hearts of college students across the nation, igniting a cultural phenomenon that has lasted for decades. The movie became a midnight screening staple, where fans donned costumes, sang along, and even spoke back to the screen during raucous viewings. This unique experience transformed “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” into an enduring institution of late-night cinema, earning the title as the longest-running theatrical release in history with screenings still happening nationwide today. With worldwide grosses exceeding $170 million, it’s safe to say that Richard O’Brien’s creation has truly touched the lives of countless individuals around the globe.

Linus O’Brien attributes some of its success to its central theme of acceptance, but he also acknowledges the allure of its soundtrack, featuring popular rock-influenced tunes like “Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch Me” and “Dammit Janet.”

Linus O’Brien believes that the success of [something] is partly due to its message about acceptance. However, he also thinks that people are drawn to its music, which includes catchy rock songs like “Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch Me” and “Dammit Janet.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but acknowledge that the music in “Rocky” is powerfully captivating, which I believe has played a significant role in its lasting impact. If the songs weren’t as strong as they are, I truly don’t think we’d still be discussing “Rocky” today. The songs kept audiences coming back week after week. In my opinion, when it comes to film soundtracks, “Rocky” stands shoulder-to-shoulder with classics like “Grease” and “The Wizard of Oz.

At this, Richard O’Brien lets out a groan.

He states confidently, “It’s superior to ‘Grease’,” implying it surpasses it in quality. Unlike ‘Grease’, which was a nostalgic imitation and a parody, ‘Rocky’ isn’t like that. It had a more authentic rock ‘n’ roll vibe.

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2025-03-07 23:25