By Jenel Hunt
After a shaky start back in 1975 when it failed at the box office, ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ went on to become an icon of its era.
Not only that, it has survived the Time Warp to live on into the next millennium and will screen at Stanthorpe’s Arcadia Theatre tomorrow, Friday 24 March, starting at 6.30pm.
Back in the day, people learned the words to the Time Warp and Sweet Transvestite, they did the dance moves en masse and generally embraced the film. Bringing the memories of that fun into the present day, Stanthorpe moviegoers are encouraged to dress as their favourite character in the movie. In amongst the audience you’re sure to see Frank-N-Furter, Janet, Brad, Riff Raff and Magenta. Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed … and maybe even to the best dancer!
The film was based on a stage show and is described as a tribute to science fiction and horror B movies of the 1930s to 1960s.
With its multi-genre appeal as a musical, a comedy and a horror film as well as its undisputed place as the first film to give a voice to drag and transvestite performers, the movie secured its place in the world psyche as a midnight movie and it has a cult following to this day. It remains the longest running theatrical release in film history. In many cities throughout the world, live amateur shadow casts even act out the film as it screens.
Whether this movie is one of your old favourites or you have never seen it, this is a chance to be a part of The Rocky Horror Picture Show history in Stanthorpe. The show is being screened by the Stanthorpe Film Society. Supper is included in the entry price and drinks are available for purchase. Tickets can be bought through www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1006733
The Stanthorpe Film Society was established by a small band of devout movie-goers who were disappointed that Stanthorpe did not have a dedicated cinema.
The society shows an unusual movie on the first Friday of each month in the historic theatre. The chosen movie is often one that is not available to stream or is not regularly shown on television. Members enjoy not only the film but also hear a little history of the production and get to share in the fun of talking to other film fanatics. Tea and coffee and snacks are provided to members free of charge. It’s $20 to become a member and then only $10 for each film you attend. At each showing, patrons can elect to buy alcoholic drinks and pizza at intermission.
“Sometimes we love a film, but sometimes it’s not a favourite at all!” said one of the members.
Once a year the Society holds a fundraiser which is open to everyone, so no need to pay the membership fee. The evening always comes with a delicious supper included.
There are still eight films to be shown this year including the 2020 Australian production of ‘Penguin Bloom’ and the classic black-and-white film, ‘Notorious’, from 1946, so it’s worth grabbing a membership and being part of the movie scene in Stanthorpe.
