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‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ (Press, 20 December 1984)

This is a Generative AI summary of this newspaper article. It may contain errors or omissions. Please note that the language in the summary is reflective of the original article and the societal attitudes of the time in which it was written.

Summary: ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ (Press, 20 December 1984)

On 20 December 1984, Richard O’Brien, a New Zealand-born artist, debuted in both acting and writing with the film "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," which aired as the Friday Feature on Two at 10 p.m. O’Brien, who has long been an enthusiast of Hollywood "B" movies, science fiction, Dr Strange comics, and rock music, drew inspiration from these interests when creating a project aimed at attracting a similar audience to theatres. "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" began as an experimental production in a small London theatre and swiftly transitioned into a worldwide stage sensation, eventually becoming a major film within a mere 18 months. The narrative centres around the sexual confusion experienced by two middle-American teenagers, who find themselves entangled in the moral complexities of the 1970s, personified through the character of Dr Frank N. Furter, a transvestite from the planet Transexual in the galaxy of Transylvania. The film features many members of the original theatre cast. O’Brien reprises his role as the hunchbacked character Riff Raff, while other original cast members include Patricia Quinn as Magenta, Little Nell as Columbia, and Jonathan Edwards, who transitions from narrator on stage to Dr Scott in the film. A standout in the film is Tim Curry, making his screen debut in the provocative role of Dr Frank N. Furter, showcasing his popularity from the stage productions in London, Los Angeles, and Broadway. The film retains the original costume designer, Sue Blane, whose distinctive designs, featuring corsets, garter belts, and tuxedos, embellish the unique aesthetic of the cast. Although this marks O’Brien’s inaugural participation in motion pictures, he is experienced in acting, having performed in London productions of "Hair" and "Jesus Christ Superstar."

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Publish Date:20th December 1984
URL:https://www.pridenz.com/paperspast_chp19841220_2_72_5.html