“Strange Journey” Doc Illuminates 50 Years of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” and Its Enduring LGBTQ+ Impact

The Rocky Horror Picture Show—first staged in London in 1973 and adapted for film in 1975—has become more than a cult classic; it is a cultural phenomenon and a touchstone for generations of LGBTQ+ individuals seeking acceptance and belonging. Now, the documentary “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror,” directed by Linus O’Brien, son of the original creator Richard O’Brien, is set to premiere on September 26, 2025, following its debut at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival earlier this year . The film arrives amid celebrations of the 50th anniversary of both the stage show and the movie, marking a pivotal moment to reflect on Rocky Horror’s legacy as a joyful force for liberation, self-expression, and queer community .

“Strange Journey” is, at its heart, a love letter to those who have found themselves on the margins. Through interviews with original cast members—Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Patricia Quinn—and contributions from modern cultural figures such as drag superstar Trixie Mattel, the documentary traces the journey of Rocky Horror from its subversive beginnings to its role as a global symbol of defiance and joy. The film features archival footage and shadowcast performances, including a program-opening segment with the Bay Area’s famed Bawdy Caste, underscoring the participatory spirit that has defined Rocky Horror fandom for decades .

Director Linus O’Brien describes the project as a celebration of the safe spaces Rocky Horror has provided for “outcasts,” a term that encompasses the wide spectrum of identities and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. “We realized that the anniversary of the stage play was coming up... But what kickstarted it all was seeing the comments underneath a YouTube clip of ‘I’m Going Home.’ The emotional effect it had on fans made it clear that this was a story worth telling,” O’Brien explained at SXSW .

Since its inception, Rocky Horror has been recognized for pushing boundaries around gender and sexuality. The character of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a self-described “sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania,” opened doors for generations of queer, transgender, and gender-nonconforming viewers to see themselves reflected in popular culture at a time when such representation was rare or nonexistent .

The documentary delves into the historical context of the show’s debut, exploring how its themes of sexual liberation and radical self-acceptance resonated with audiences during the early years of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. For many fans, attending midnight screenings of Rocky Horror became an act of rebellion, a space where they could experiment with identity, fashion, and gender expression free from judgment. This communal aspect of Rocky Horror culture is highlighted in interviews and fan testimonials throughout “Strange Journey” .

The enduring appeal of Rocky Horror lies in its ability to create “spaces of transgression and safety,” according to reviewer Zachary Levi of RogerEbert.com. Levi notes that “at its best, Strange Journey offers that same playground for its viewers to experience,” echoing the sense of liberation that Rocky Horror audiences have cherished for half a century .

Richard O’Brien, reflecting on the phenomenon, remarks in the documentary that “Rocky Horror hasn’t truly belonged to him for years. It belongs... to the fans.” This sentiment is reinforced by testimonials from queer audience members who credit the show with helping them find community, challenge societal norms, and embrace their authentic selves .

One of the documentary’s most poignant sections examines the role of fan participation in Rocky Horror’s legacy. Shadowcast performances—where fans reenact the movie live in front of the screen—became a rite of passage for many LGBTQ+ individuals, transforming theaters into spaces of celebration, performance, and mutual support. The Bawdy Caste’s performance, featured in the documentary, exemplifies how Rocky Horror continues to foster community and creativity .

These participatory rituals have historically attracted people “who felt different or outside the mainstream,” as Linus O’Brien notes. The documentary underscores how Rocky Horror screenings offered a rare zone of safety and camaraderie for those experiencing isolation due to their sexuality, gender identity, or self-expression .

“Strange Journey” features commentary from both the original creators and contemporary voices, giving insight into Rocky Horror’s influence on LGBTQ+ rights and representation. The film situates the show within the broader trajectory of queer cinema, highlighting its role in inspiring later works that center LGBTQ+ characters and narratives in mainstream culture.

Critics have praised the documentary for its nuanced approach: Daniel Fienberg of The Hollywood Reporter writes that “Strange Journey is a record will be pleased to have,” indicating its importance as both historical documentation and celebration .

As Rocky Horror marks its 50th year, “Strange Journey” invites viewers to reflect on the evolution of LGBTQ+ visibility and community. The film asks what Rocky Horror’s message of radical self-acceptance means in the current climate, where spaces for queer joy and expression remain vital but can still be threatened by social and political backlash.

Through its exploration of personal stories and cultural impact, “Strange Journey” stands as a testament to the power of art to unite and inspire. As Wilson Chapman of IndieWire writes, “Anyone who lives, breathes, and bleeds Rocky Horror will find comfort in Strange Journey and its celebration of the musical’s enduring legacy” .

The upcoming release of “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror” is more than a retrospective; it is a recognition of the ways in which queer culture, community, and creativity have shaped—and been shaped by—one of the most enduring musicals in history. For LGBTQ+ audiences and allies alike, the film offers both nostalgia and inspiration, reminding viewers that the strange journey continues, and that the spaces created by Rocky Horror remain as vital today as they were fifty years ago.