Wanna feel old? The Rocky Horror Picture Show came out in theaters fifty (fifty!) years ago. How’s that for a Time Warp?! (I’ll see myself out.)
To celebrate the occasion, Walt Disney Restoration is releasing a 4K Ultra remaster that will not only play in theaters later this year, but also be released on Blu-ray for you to enjoy from the comfort of your couch.
“It’s a privilege to help preserve the legacy of a film that has meant so much to so many,” Restoration & Library Management director Kevin Schaeffer said in a statement to Variety. “Bringing The Rocky Horror Picture Show to life in 4K allows us to honor its bold, genre-defying spirit and ensure that audiences—both longtime fans and first-time viewers—can experience it as it was originally intended, with stunning picture and sound.”
The original motion picture, which has since brought much joy through innumerable Midnight viewings, first came out in 1975 and was based on the musical play by Richard O’Brien. The film stars Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter, and Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick as Janet and Brad, the young couple who end up in front of Dr. Frank-N-Nutter’s castle door when their car breaks down. Songs ensue…among other things.
The film was produced by Lou Adler and Michael White, with a screenplay by O’Brien director Jim Sharman. Alder was involved in the current remastering. “When The Rocky Horror Picture Show was first released, no one thought it would be around very long, let alone… fifty years,” he told Variety. “What began as a small, rebellious project has become a global celebration of individuality, community, and creative freedom. This anniversary is a tribute to the fans who kept it alive and kicking all these years.”
We don’t know the exact dates on when the remastered version will hit theaters and Blu-ray, other than it will happen sometime later this year.