Time Warp Revisited: The Rocky Horror Phenomenon

Being in San Francisco in the 70s was like living in the heart of a cultural revolution, one that I never wanted to leave. I can still remember those days, wandering through Haight-Ashbury, stepping through a portal from the peace-and-love hippie era into the emerging LGBTQ+ scene. Those were the days of real community spirit, where every Sunday felt like a mini-revolution, cheering on the Sandinistas in Nicaragua, feeling like we were all part of this huge, world-changing movement. We had hope.

Polk Street was where magic happened at night. Drag queens ruled the scene, and every show was outstanding. It was where I first learned the true meaning of courage and fabulousness. The Castro was like a second home, a safe haven where friends could just be themselves, openly and proudly. And then there was Folsom Street, edgy and daring, a place where people explored their desires freely, challenging every taboo.

New to SF, I was puzzled by the odd names of the bike gangs hanging on Folsom. Until my friends explained to me what Golden Showers really meant. I was so young and so very naïve. Demonstrations turned into riots protesting the murder of Harvey Milk, my first taste of tear gas. Moonies, Hari Krishnas, Scientologists, everyone was recruiting. It felt like we were all looking for something, whether it was a cause to support or a new way of seeing the world. There was a connection that overrode the differences. A spirit of acceptance that shared what little we all had with whoever needed it the most.

What was really new and exciting to me was watching the women’s movement start to take shape in the Mission, blending with the local Mexican culture. Fights for rights and cultural pride. Jane Fonda was holding her Raises not Roses rallies during lunchtime in the financial district for office workers. When I looked around, I noticed many men in attendance. People wanted change. Women started to matter in the world, especially queer women, no matter what Anita Bryant was screaming about in Florida.

Living through the 70s in San Francisco was more than just a great time—it was a journey of discovery. An education like no other. Of finding out what it means to belong, to stand up for your rights, and to love freely. Those years weren’t just a chapter in my life; they were the backdrop to finding out who I really was and what I stood for. It was a time of lessons learned not just from books but from life itself, amidst laughter, tears, and a whole lot of dancing. It wasn’t just about being alive; it was about being fully, vibrantly, unabashedly alive.

And the biggest game changer of all in those days — The Rocky Horror Picture Show. A time warp into madness and transcendence.

Don’t Dream It — Be It! Birth of a Cult Classic

When my friends dragged me off to a midnight screening of Rocky Horror Picture Show at the UA Cinema 150, on Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco, they made sure I was equipped with rice, a lighter, and a newspaper. I had no idea what was being said in the film — the audience participation was so loud—but it didn’t matter. I got it. And still got wet.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show was released in 1975, during a period of social and political upheaval. It first screened in the UK, where it started as a stageplay, and then made its way to the US. The first American screening was on September 26, 1975, in Westwood, Los Angeles. For such a groundbreaking film, it had a tepid response and a hard time attracting an audience. Moving north, Rocky found its home in San Francisco. Magic happened.

The mid-1970s were turbulent times in the United States and many Western countries. The Vietnam War had just ended, leaving people disillusioned and questioning those in charge. The movement for women’s rights was slowly gaining momentum, challenging traditional roles and fighting for equal treatment. The gay rights movement was emerging from the shadows triggered by the Stonewall riots in 1969, which were a turning point in the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect. The Rocky Horror Picture Show was a celebration of sexuality and an exploration of identity. Its midnight showings in New York City at the Waverly Theater in Greenwich Village quickly became a phenomenon. These showings provided an unparalleled communal space for audiences who were marginalized and ignored by mainstream society.

This was a revolutionary event, not just a screening. You didn’t just watch The Rocky Horror Picture Show—you became part of it. Fans dressed up as their favorite characters, flaunting the film’s flamboyant defiance of norms and challenging cultural perceptions around sexuality and identity. The film offered an alternative to the discontent in the post-Vietnam era, a release during the ongoing struggles for civil rights, and a voice to those who felt sidelined by the status quo.

I’m Just a Sweet Transvestite—Transcending Transylvania

The Rocky Horror Picture Show was groundbreaking in its explicit portrayal of sexuality and gender identity. The film is a revelry of differences. The story and characters encourage us to push against societal norms and embrace a more fluid understanding of identity. An unconventional mix of science fiction, horror, and camp, along with its unique soundtrack, sets it apart from the typical cinematic offerings of the time.

At the heart of The Rocky Horror Picture Show is Dr. Frank N. Furter, played by Tim Curry. A transvestite scientist from the planet Transsexual in the galaxy of Transylvania. Both a villain and a hero, he is a complex figure who defies categorization. At a time when discussions around transgender issues were largely absent from mainstream media, Dr. Frank N. Furter was the embodiment of gender fluidity. For Frank, sexual liberation was a form of empowerment, cherishing the pursuit of pleasure free from societal constraints. And challenging the taboos surrounding sexuality prevalent in the 1970s.

With gender-defying characters and a spectrum of sexual identities, the film was an endorsement for visibility as an LGBTQ+ community. Its enduring popularity within the LGBTQ+ community highlights its significance as a cultural artifact that challenged norms and offered a more inclusive world.

There’s a Light — Over at the Frankenstein Place

Riff Raff and Magenta

Riff Raff and Magenta, portrayed by Richard O’Brien (who is also the creator of the show) and Patricia Quinn, are the alien siblings and caretakers of the Frankenstein Place. Riff Raff, with his hunched back and eerie demeanor, and Magenta, with her wild hair and maid’s outfit, are a blend of the grotesque and the humorous. They’re focused on doing their own thing and unconcerned with what everyone else thinks is acceptable. Riff Raff’s eventual rebellion against Frank N. Furter is a sub-theme of the film—the quest for autonomy and self-determination, even within a community of outsiders.

Columbia

Columbia, brought to life by Nell Campbell, is a tap-dancing groupie who is in love with Frank N. Furter but also shows affection for Eddie, a former delivery boy turned partially brain-dead zombie. Columbia’s character adds a layer of complexity to the film’s exploration of love and sexuality. Her flamboyant style, loyalty, and eventual disillusionment with Frank paint a picture of the emotional tumult and vulnerability that can accompany love and desire. Especially in relationships defined by power imbalances.

Brad and Janet

Brad Majors and Janet Weiss are the classic straight-laced couple, played by Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon, who accidentally find themselves at the Frankenstein Place. Brad and Janet’s transformations highlight the theme of sexual liberation and the questioning of morality and traditional values, as they each confront and embrace their own desires in the face of the extraordinary.

Eddie

Eddie, played by Meat Loaf, bursts onto the scene with his rock ’n’ roll swagger, symbolizing the rebellious spirit of the 1950s and 60s. Even though he’s not around for long, Eddie stands for the movie’s recognition of non-conformity and rebellion. His sudden exit, thanks to Frank, adds a darker note, hinting at the potential consequences of unchecked hedonism.

Dr. Everett V. Scott

Dr. Everett V. Scott is an ex-tutor of both Brad and Janet, a scientist who doesn’t see eye to eye with Frank N. Furter. His character, confined to a wheelchair, is the mad scientist stereotype, bringing a different dimension to the film’s critique of societal norms. As an outsider in his own right, Dr. Scott’s pursuit of knowledge and truth, even in the face of ridicule, aligns with the film’s overarching theme of challenging the status quo.

Each character in The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a piece in the larger puzzle of the film’s commentary on sexuality, gender, and societal norms. Through their quirky stories and personalities, they make the film a beloved cultural landmark. There was so much creativity and outrageous fashion attending every Rocky Horror screening—watching the people was as much fun as watching the film.

Wild and Untamed Thing—Impact on Pop Culture

With the blend of camp, horror, and rock ’n’ roll and its jubilation of non-conformity and sexual liberation, Rocky Horror left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its influence was felt from fashion and music to theater and film.

Fashion and Style

Generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts have been influenced by its flamboyant costumes and makeup. Characters like Frank N. Furter, with his corsets and pearl necklace, and Columbia, with her sequined top hat and tap shoes, have become iconic symbols of self-expression and defiance against conventional fashion norms. The mix of gothic, glam rock, and science fiction elements has inspired fans and fashionistas alike to experiment with their personal style, pushing the boundaries of mainstream society.

Music and Performance

As much a musical as it is a film, its soundtrack became a cult phenomenon in its own right. Songs like The Time Warp and Sweet Transvestite have not only become sing-along anthems at screenings but have influenced the music industry, inspiring artists across genres from punk to pop. Meatloaf’s rock ’n’ roll and his theatrical delivery, paved the way for the integration of rock music into theater, inspiring productions like Hedwig and the Angry Inch and Rent.

Theater and Live Performances

Shadow casts—live performances by Rocky fans acted out as the film plays— have become a sociocultural movement, extending the film’s influence into the realm of live theater. These performances democratized theater, making it accessible and participatory for audiences who might not otherwise engage with live performance art. The Rocky Horror Picture Show also inspired countless amateur and professional productions throughout the world, establishing its status as a cultural touchstone that bridges the boundaries between film and theater.

Broader Cultural Impact

The Rocky Horror Picture Show has left its mark on so much more than just fashion, music, and theater. You can see its influence in TV shows, comic books, and all over pop culture. Its messages about being true to yourself and embracing differences have struck a chord with various subcultures and movements, sparking conversations about gender and sexuality. The film cultivates a sense of community among fans, creating safe spaces for exploration and acceptance that have endured for decades, making us laugh, and encouraging us to think differently.

Super Heroes—Formation of a Dedicated Fan Base

The Rocky Horror community is defined by its diversity, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication. Fans, or Rocky Horror kids as they are known, come from all walks of life, united by their love for the film and its honoring of difference. The tradition of midnight screenings has been essential in the formation of this community. Offering a space where fans can come together to enjoy the film, participate in the viewing rituals, and express themselves freely without fear of judgment.

Sense of Belonging and Acceptance

For a lot of people, being part of the Rocky Horror community has given them a feeling of fitting in that they didn’t have before. The film and its screenings have created a safe haven for those who feel marginalized or misunderstood by mainstream society, especially individuals exploring their gender and sexual identities. Within this community, fans can explore aspects of their identity in an environment that is accepting of diversity and self-discovery.

Impact on LGBTQ+ Visibility

The Rocky Horror Picture Show holds a special place in the heart of the LGBTQ+ community. By featuring queer characters and themes at a time when LGBTQ+ representation in media was scarce and often negative, the film offered visibility and a positive reflection of queer lives and experiences. This visibility played a part in broader societal shifts towards acceptance and understanding of LGBTQ+ individuals, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about gender and sexuality.

Cultural Perception of Sexuality and Liberation

The film and its community also impacted broader cultural perceptions of sexuality and liberation. Through its candid exploration of these themes, The Rocky Horror Picture Show challenged prevailing norms and opened up conversations about sexual freedom and identity. The community that has formed around the film is a microcosm of a more accepting and open society, where the exploration of one’s identity is supported.

Rocky Horror has provided a space for entertainment and escapism and facilitated personal growth, self-acceptance, and meaningful connections. In terms of community and identity, The film’s legacy highlights the impact that art can have on individuals and society as a whole.

The Sword of Damocles—How AIDS Killed Everything

The onset of the AIDS crisis in the early 1980s dropped a bomb on American culture. This devastating epidemic brought about a seismic shift in societal attitudes towards sexuality, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, which was disproportionately affected. These changes in perception had a catastrophic impact on the legacy and community of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Changing Social Climate

The Rocky Horror Picture Show thrived in a cultural environment that was increasingly open to exploring and challenging traditional norms around sexuality and gender identity. The emergence of AIDS brought a wave of fear, stigma, and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, as a more conservative social climate took control. Suddenly, the film’s themes of sexual liberation and non-conformity were the devil's work, with the celebration of free love and fluid sexuality coming under attack.

Impact on the Rocky Horror Community

The Rocky Horror community faced new challenges in the wake of the AIDS crisis. The sense of fear and uncertainty that permeated the era affected attendance at screenings and participation in the community, as public gatherings, especially those associated with the LGBTQ+ community, were viewed with increased suspicion and fear. Despite these challenges, the Rocky Horror screenings continued to be a space for resistance and solidarity, where the values of acceptance and support were more important than ever.

Legacy and Resilience

In a time of fear and isolation in the LGBTQ+ community, The Rocky Horror Picture Show remained a symbol of hope and defiance. The film and its community adapted to the changing cultural landscape, with screenings being more than just a gala, they became memorials for those lost to AIDS and fundraisers for AIDS research and support services. While the film continued to be celebrated for its embrace of non-conformity and fluidity, the crisis brought a new depth to these themes, intertwining them with discussions about health, responsibility, and community care.

Rose Tint My World—Enduring Legacy and Global Impact

It started as a quirky musical and became a cultural phenomenon with a lasting legacy that spans decades and continents. Its impact continues today, as it moves globally, with a message of self-expression, acceptance, and rebellion against conformity.

Contemporary Relevance

With the resurrection of homophobia within certain political parties, The Rocky Horror Picture Show continues to resonate with audiences, both old and new. Its themes of gender fluidity and sexual liberation are more relevant now than ever, in light of ongoing discussions about LGBTQ+ rights and identity politics. The film’s call to embrace one’s true self and challenge societal norms speaks to a new generation of viewers who find in Rocky Horror a reflection of their own struggles and aspirations.

Community and Cultural Exchange

The global Rocky Horror community is a vibrant and diverse network of fans who share a deep connection to the film and its message. International fan conventions and online platforms have facilitated a cultural exchange, allowing fans from different parts of the world to share their experiences and interpretations of the film. This global community continues to grow, bonded by a shared love for Rocky Horror and its validation of difference.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is not just catchy tunes and memorable characters. It has the capacity to challenge, delight, and inspire. Its impact, both in the United States and globally, continues its revolutionary spirit and ongoing relevance in a changing world.

I’m Going Home

Coming of age in SF in the era of Rocky Horror culture opened my eyes to a new reality. A life beyond the 9–5 grind I had been taught was my only future. Learning about love with my new family of heart, many lost to AIDS but never far away, I was left with the passion to create and explore all this world has to offer.

Through acceptance, we learn to be ourselves. And that is a very powerful place to create from. Every year, I dust off my copy of Rocky Horror and sing and dance my way to Frank’s departure. And I recall fondly everyone with whom I shared those moments in the time warp. AIDS transformed San Franciso into a ghost town, and I left. Did my life ever return to normal after leaving? What’s normal?

“It’s just a jump to the left. And then a step to the right.”

*All film images from Movie Stills.