The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Just the name conjures images of fishnet stockings, flamboyant makeup, and a rebellious spirit that has captivated audiences for decades. But how did this iconic cult classic come to life? Born from the mind of Richard O’Brien, and nurtured in the experimental atmosphere of London’s Royal Court Theatre, this musical parody of B-movies and glam rock unexpectedly morphed into a global phenomenon. Let’s delve into the behind-the-scenes story of how this unique film was made.
From Stage Play to Royal Court Beginnings
Richard O’Brien, the writer and actor behind Rocky Horror, was a self-proclaimed “eternal adolescent” with a passion for B-movies, rock’n’roll, and the burgeoning glam rock scene. Having already performed in musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar and Hair, O’Brien yearned for a musical that resonated with his own tastes. “I was starting to think I wouldn’t mind seeing a musical that appealed to me,” O’Brien recalls. This desire sparked the initial idea for what would become The Rocky Horror Show.
His path took an exciting turn when Jim Sharman, the director of Jesus Christ Superstar, invited him to audition for a play at the Royal Court Theatre. It was there he met Richard Hartley, a composer working on incidental music for the play. A pivotal evening saw Sharman visiting O’Brien, where O’Brien shared some of his nascent songs, including the now-famous “Science Fiction/Double Feature” and “Hot Patootie”. Sharman immediately saw the potential, envisioning a stage show. He proposed to the Royal Court to direct another play, but with a condition: “as long as they let me have three weeks’ fun upstairs afterwards.” This “fun” was to be the workshop for O’Brien’s burgeoning musical. O’Brien expanded his initial songs, adding dialogue, but still with modest expectations: “I didn’t think it would be a hit. I thought we’d have our three weeks of fun on the Royal Court’s upstairs stage then move on.”
Alt text: Richard O’Brien as Riff Raff in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a cult classic musical film.
The production evolved significantly during rehearsals. “Science Fiction/Double Feature” already contained the line, “See androids fighting Brad and Janet.” These names, to O’Brien, represented a quintessential, wholesome American couple. To further flesh out their story, the song “Dammit Janet” was created. O’Brien reflects on their journey: “I think their sexual awakening is something we can all relate to, but it’s not just a sexual rites of passage: when their car breaks down and they arrive at the castle, they’re leaving the American dream and walking into an uncertain future.” This arrival at the castle marked a departure from the familiar and a plunge into the delightfully bizarre world of Rocky Horror.
From Fringe Theatre to Hollywood’s Doorstep
The unexpected trajectory of Rocky Horror took another dramatic leap when Hollywood came calling. O’Brien marvels at this turn of events: “It’s astonishing that the US movie industry bought into it: there we were with a fringe theatre event that hadn’t even gone to the West End.” 20th Century Fox, surprisingly, saw the potential in this unconventional show. Not only did they greenlight a film adaptation, but they also allowed the original cast to reprise their roles, with Jim Sharman continuing as director.
There was, however, one studio mandate: the inclusion of American actors. This led to the casting of Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon as Brad and Janet. Interestingly, their on-screen chemistry mirrored reality as they were romantically involved during filming. The film’s journey wasn’t without its hurdles; a change in leadership at Fox nearly led to its cancellation. Yet, against all odds, this seemingly niche project would later become a financial lifeline for the studio, keeping it “afloat for three years.” Its impact transcended mere financial success, solidifying its place in “cinema history” and arguably becoming “the No 1 cult classic movie of all time.”
Alt text: Susan Sarandon portraying Janet Weiss in The Rocky Horror Picture Show movie, an iconic role in a cult musical.
Filming took place in the UK, utilizing an atmospheric old building adjacent to the Hammer House of Horror studios. Far from being a purpose-built set, it was a “Victorian gothic revival house” that had seen use in other films, including the horror movie The Innocents. Its listed, “gloomy and semi-derelict” state, with an absentee owner, provided the perfect eerie backdrop. However, this authenticity came with practical challenges, requiring the crew to transport all equipment across a paddock to reach the location.
One of the most memorable scenes to film was Rocky’s birthday party, featuring Peter Hinwood as the gold- Speedo-clad creation and a host of Transylvanian extras. Filming concluded just before Christmas, amidst freezing conditions. Susan Sarandon’s dedication was particularly noteworthy; during the pool scene for “Wild and Untamed Thing,” despite battling a severe cold and fever, she persevered, showcasing incredible resilience.
Director Jim Sharman fostered a playful atmosphere on set, often employing pranks. A memorable example was the reveal of Eddie’s corpse under the dining table. To capture genuine reactions, only Tim Curry, who had to dramatically unveil the body, was aware of the surprise element. This commitment to spontaneity contributed to the film’s raw and authentic feel.
The Music and Themes that Defined a Generation
Richard Hartley, the composer, describes Rocky Horror as “just Frankenstein with a twist. Except there’s no twisting – it’s rock’n’roll.” He emphasizes the shared musical tastes with O’Brien, drawing inspiration from artists like Chuck Berry and the Rolling Stones, evident in songs like “Sweet Transvestite.” While acknowledging the self-indulgent nature of the music, Hartley distinguishes it from mere pastiche, like in Grease, emphasizing a more genuine and edgy sound.
“Time Warp,” a song now synonymous with audience participation, was a late addition, conceived during rehearsals. Initially, the stage show was only around 40 minutes long, and a dance number was needed to extend it. Hartley describes the organic development process: “It evolved on the fly, all within three weeks. I’d dream up musical arrangements as we rehearsed.” Despite some cast members being “vocally challenged,” the musical elements surprisingly fell into place.
Alt text: Iconic portrayal of Dr. Frank N. Furter by Tim Curry in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, makeup applied by himself.
The film adaptation aimed for a more gothic aesthetic. Musicians from Procol Harum were brought in to enhance the sound, adding strings and brass for a “sweetened for Hollywood” feel. Despite these enhancements, the backing tracks were recorded in a mere four days, with vocals completed in a week. Interestingly, all songs except “Science Fiction” were pre-recorded and mimed on set, a decision that, while potentially more complex, contributed to the polished final product. Despite the Hollywood treatment, the entire film remained remarkably low-budget, costing less than $1 million.
Rocky Horror’s subversiveness lay in its “raw-edged” nature and its unapologetic exploration of themes that were considered taboo at the time. Dr. Frank N Furter’s declaration, “I’m just a sweet transvestite,” was groundbreaking in its directness and empowering for many. Similarly, Janet’s sexually assertive “Touch-A Touch-A Touch Me” challenged conventional portrayals of female desire.
O’Brien, considering himself more of a lyricist, highlights his favorite Rocky Horror line: “It’s not easy having a good time.” He also points to the narrator’s verse in “Superheroes” – “Crawling on the planet’s face, some insects called the human race, lost in time, and lost in space, and meaning” – for its unexpected gravitas.
A Cult Legacy Endures
The enduring appeal of The Rocky Horror Picture Show remains a phenomenon. Hartley is “staggered it’s such a phenomenon,” noting the film’s pacing and length might have inadvertently contributed to audience participation. “They probably got bored so they started answering back,” he jokes, suggesting audience interaction arose organically from the film’s unique viewing experience.
Despite its flaws, perhaps even because of them, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has cemented its place as a cultural touchstone. O’Brien sums up its lasting appeal: “as long as the band is cooking and the music is rocking and the audience is laughing, I’m happy as a sandboy.” From its humble beginnings on a small London stage to its global cult status, the making of The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a testament to creative vision, collaborative spirit, and the magic that happens when the unexpected is embraced.
