Since its creation 45 years ago, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has remained a campy fan favorite. While times have changed greatly in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and representation in the media, and some might argue that it’s offensive nowadays, this film was honestly the crux of a media movement in 1975. During this time, keep in mind that California was the only state that legalized homosexuality, while much of the country was still coming out of the haze of the events that took place at the Stonewall riots just 6 years prior. This being said, the media was just beginning to take chances and show expression of non-heteronormative love and lust. For example, the first homosexual couple was depicted on Hot I Baltimore this year on ABC, and while it was incredibly shortlived only airing for 13 episodes (because it was “too racy”), this paved way for more to come in the LGBT community.
Anyways, back to our “Sweet Transvestite” himself, Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-n-Furter. Around 20 minutes into the film, he steps out of an elevator, dressed head to toe in drag, preaching a story of sexual awakening and gender fluidity. Now, I don’t want to spoil the movie for those Picture Show virgins out there, just know that it is a must-see. But, mainly, I wanted to highlight why this movie is so crucial and still remains a cultural phenomenon. So, without further ado, I present to you my top 5 reasons why this science fiction double feature show is still important in today’s terms.
- It challenges the audience to be authentically true to themselves. Whether it be sexual orientation, beliefs, gender identity, pleasure, and more, The Rocky Horror Picture Show praises being different and to stray from the norm.
- It gives a sense of belonging to the “outcasts”. Anyone who has ever been ashamed of who they are or has been pushed aside by haters, watch this film and let your freak flag fly.
- The film allows you to lose yourself in the moment. Whether you’re young or old, you can escape into this strange world that might make yours seem a little less looky.
- It’s just pure fun. There’s no drama or negativity in this movie.
- It inspires its audience to dream and follow through.
In true Frank-N-Furter fashion, the purpose of this film is to be yourself and flaunt it. In his own words, “Don’t dream it, Be it.” So, what do you say, let’s do the Time Warp again, shall we?