Some 41 years later, Tim Curry returns to the new T.V. special production of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” a cult classic of the ‘70s. Curry, who played the now-iconic alien, transexual “Dr. Frank-N-Furter” returns as the production’s narrator.
“Orange is the New Black” star and recipient of Time’s “Woman of the Year Award” Laverne Cox took on the challenging lead role. Initial reports of the casting of a transgender woman in “Frank-N-Furter” lead generated controversy that left watchers with anticipation.
Many other changes to the classic included iconic costuming differences, the most notable departures being worn by Cox, “Rocky,” and “Columbia.” Curry’s famous black fishnets and garb were replaced by bright reds and a notable “cleaner” production makeups. Overall, many felt the new special, which aired on October 20 on FOX, had a distinct punk-rock inspired style.
“Rocky’s” hotpants were replaced with much longer gold shorts. Staz Nair, actor for “Rocky,” had dark roots compared to his character’s full bleach blond vision. “Columbia,” played by Annaleigh Ashford ditched the ringleader tailcoat, kept the hat, but added a spiked, studded jacket instead. The classic gold, sequin look was just a fascinator in the form of her hat.
The look and feel to the new production “The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do the Time Warp Again” was expectedly different, but the result was one that seemingly lacked the edge that came to be expected from the talent selections.
Victoria Justice, starring as “Janet” is alongside Ryan McCartan as “Brad” received mixed reviews. The vocal talent, sans Cox’s questionable accent, was mostly on point. However, the music was much more modernly engineered, which can challenge the nostalgic elements that propelled the special to fruition.
Overall, the special was well received–not exceedingly praised. Audiences felt it was enjoyable despite minor changes and a vastly new, younger cast. Some reviewers noted the dynamic to Curry’s “Frank-N-Furter” androgyny when compared to the transgender Cox’s portrayal. Did Cox manage to step out from Curry’s shadow–perhaps not.
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” has a dedicated fanbase that routinely holds performances during movie showings. Anyone who’s within the fanbase knows what it means to attend a showing: interactivity. Some of the interactive components from the fanbase were highlighted during the new special.
Danbarry Cinemas in Middletown, holds showings for Rocky Horror every first Friday of the month at Midnight. The last live-cast performance, who act out the plot while the movie unfolds in full costume, was on October 7. Many cinemas have taken to Rocky Horror as the cult classic continues to draw in new fans and appeal to the original.
Barton Kleen
Executive Editor