Unraveling ‘Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror’
The Essence of ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’
At its core, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” contrasts conservative values with themes of transgression. The story revolves around Brad and Janet, two naive individuals who embody traditional norms, finding themselves in a bizarre world filled with mad scientists, alien beings, and eccentric characters. Their journey into this unraveling realm serves as a liberating experience, challenging their staunch upbringing and allowing them to embrace their true selves.
A Celebration of Fandom
The documentary “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror,” directed by Linus O’Brien, pays homage to the unconventional fans of the film since its release in 1975. While the film holds a certain reverence, it often conforms to familiar documentary tropes prevalent within the genre. The work reflects a blend of admiration and historical recounting, making it resemble many other film and music documentaries.
A Conventional Documentary
Featuring a mix of interviews, archival footage, and still photography, “Strange Journey” aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the rich history surrounding the “Rocky Horror” legacy. Notably, the film kicks off with Richard O’Brien revisiting his hometown and queuing up memories linked to the film’s origin. Over its concise runtime, it maps the evolution from stage to screen, touching on pivotal moments but occasionally lacking depth in exploration.
Pacing and Content Limitations
The film’s brisk pacing means that while it captures essential anecdotes, it limits the opportunity for deeper exploration of the subjects discussed. Many of the insights shared are likely known to devoted fans and could be acquired through other sources. For instance, while the documentary gives a nod to the creation of the iconic “shadow cast,” it delegates that significant aspect to a mere portion of its concluding moments.
Voices of the Cast and Crew
The documentary brings together key figures from the film’s making, including Jim Sharman, Lou Adler, and Tim Curry, all enriched with anecdotes about the cultural impact of “Rocky Horror.” Notably, Susan Sarandon reflects on Janet’s character development, emphasizing its resonance with the feminist movements of the 1970s: “I think the movie’s about saying yes, to life, to everything.” Such commentary resonates strongly with viewers who have their own connections to the film.
Insights from Fans and Historians
Throughout “Strange Journey,” various fans and film historians also share their thoughts. While some perspectives provide richly anecdotal insights into the film’s influence, others, like Jack Black’s reflections, come off as less integral. On a more personal note, drag queen Trixie Mattel’s commentary emphasizes the safe space “Rocky Horror” created for exploration of identity, especially significant for those in conservative backgrounds.
A Father-Son Reflection
One of the heartwarming aspects of the documentary is the dialogue between Linus and Richard O’Brien. While it does not delve deeply into Richard’s gender identity, it hints at a more intimate father-son narrative that could have enhanced the experience. Richard O’Brien eloquently encapsulates the impact of the film, recounting how a fan asserted, “It doesn’t matter what you think about ‘Rocky Horror’ anymore Richard, because it’s not yours. It belongs to us, not to you.”
Conclusion
Ultimately, “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror” acts as a heartfelt tribute to the film’s dedicated fanbase, acknowledging its vital place in pop culture. While it may not unveil new insights for seasoned enthusiasts, it effectively strikes a chord with those whose lives have been indelibly marked by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” The documentary celebrates this enduring legacy, resonating most profoundly with fans while offering a less compelling narrative for outsiders.
Grade: B-
The documentary premiered at the SXSW 2025 Film Festival and is currently in search of distribution.
