The Rocky Horror picture show is a feast for the eyes and the ears. An amazingly camp performance from Tim Curry is one, but not all, of the aspects that truly lifts Rocky Horror into a cult classic musical.
When I discussed the film post-rewatch, there was a divide in the class. Some loved it, for its over-the-top, iconic performances, and others hated it, citing it as uninspiring. Though I don't love or hate it, Rocky Horror, I feel, is best experienced with a live audience to actually 'get it'. You can't enjoy the film for what it is now in the public's mind, without authentically experiencing what makes its legacy live on to this day!
I would agree that Rocky Horror has now become a sort of "Gay for the Straights" film, but not intentionally. When you're faced with that kind of long-standing notoriety, any of the controversial aspects of your indie film will eventually be bleached and scrubbed to be palatable to a kitch-straight audience. You can see this in action with references in pop culture and even parodies (Dr. Who, The Simpsons)!
For what it's worth, I still experience something new every time I watch Rocky Horror. For its flaws, and potentially badly-aged moments, it still has an endearing and enduring soul. Whether that's because of the fans or because of the film, I'll let you decide.
Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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