Celebrating 50 years ofThe Rocky Horror Picture Show

Since its debut in 1975, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has achieved an unprecedented milestone as the longest-running theatrical release film ever. Its unique blend of catchy music, campy humor, and a passionate fan base has solidified its status as a staple in midnight movie culture. To commemorate its 50th anniversary, Disney/20th Century Studios is set to release a newly restored 4K HDR version this October. Fans can also look forward to deluxe special editions on DVD and Blu-ray. Additionally, two documentaries highlighting the film's remarkable journey over the decades are being released: Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror and Sane Inside Insanity: The Phenomenon of Rocky Horror. The film is an adaptation of Richard O'Brien's stage musical, The Rocky Horror Show, which premiered in 1973. O'Brien, at the time a struggling actor, crafted the musical as a tribute to the science fiction and B-horror films he cherished throughout his childhood. The opening number, "Science Fiction/Double Feature," references numerous classics, such as 1951's The Day the Earth Stood Still and 1956's Forbidden Planet. While the musical enjoyed a successful six-year run in London and was well-received in Los Angeles, its New York City production faced challenges. Nevertheless, the film was already in the works, with O'Brien co-writing the script and portraying Riff Raff, the hunchbacked butler. Director Jim Sharman retained much of the original London cast but introduced American actors Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon as Brad and Janet, respectively. The film was largely shot at the historic Victorian Gothic manor, Oakley Court, in Berkshire, England, known for its association with several Hammer horror films. Sharman ingeniously incorporated props and set pieces from previous Hammer productions, including the iconic tank and dummy from 1958's The Revenge of Frankenstein. The story begins with Brad and Janet, a wholesome couple, attending a wedding and awkwardly getting engaged. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when they encounter car trouble and seek shelter in a mysterious castle. There, they meet the eccentric owner, Frank-N-Furter, played by Tim Curry, who draws them into a bizarre world filled with misfits and surprises.