Kaleidoscope Entertainment has announced the upcoming UK and Irish release of Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror, a compelling documentary exploring the enduring legacy of the cult classic movie The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Following its success at SXSW, the film will make its UK premiere at Sheffield DocFest on June 19, followed by a screening at SCI-FI-LONDON on June 22. Irish audiences can experience the premiere at GAZE on August 3, with a wide cinema release scheduled for October 3. Additional festival appearances are expected to be announced soon.
An In-Depth Exploration of a Cult Film and Its Cultural Impact
This documentary offers an unprecedented look into the evolution of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, from its origins as a London fringe theatre production to becoming the most iconic cult movie in history. Directed by Linus O’Brien—son of the original creator Richard O’Brien—the film delivers intimate access to key figures behind the phenomenon, including Richard O’Brien himself, Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, and Lou Adler.
Strange Journey delves into the film’s groundbreaking themes, unforgettable performances, and legendary soundtrack that reshaped pop culture and inspired generations. Linus O’Brien’s unique perspective as both filmmaker and son of the original creator adds a deeply personal layer to the documentary’s narrative.
Star-Studded Interviews and Fan Reflections
The documentary features revealing interviews with the original movie cast such as Tim Curry, Oscar-winner Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Patricia Quinn, and Nell Campbell. Alongside them, contemporary voices like Jack Black (known for School of Rock) and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Trixie Mattel reflect on the film’s lasting cultural significance and its role as a beacon for inclusivity and self-expression.
The UK Festival run opens at Sheffield DocFest with a special Q&A featuring Linus O’Brien, Richard Hartley, and Patricia Quinn, moderated by Carol Nahra. The film’s theatrical debut across the UK and Ireland in October marks a significant moment for fans and newcomers alike, with hopes for a subsequent US release.
Director Linus O’Brien on the Movie’s Personal and Cultural Resonance
Linus O’Brien shares, “Discovering the real emotional connection fans had with Rocky Horror—through their stories and devotion—was the catalyst for this film. This movie isn’t just about its rise and fall or its cultural impact; it’s about the communities and safe spaces it created, especially in today’s political climate, where such spaces are more vital than ever.”
He adds, “Although I initially planned only to help produce, it became clear that this was a story only I could tell—a father/son journey intertwined with the legacy of this groundbreaking film. Filming interviews in London, New York, Los Angeles, and New Zealand allowed me to reconnect deeply with the cast and uncover stories never told before.”
A Celebration of Cult Film and Its Fans
Strange Journey honors not only the movie but the dedicated fans who have sustained and transformed it into a cultural touchstone. Linus emphasizes the film’s message of inclusivity: “Rocky Horror remains a joyous, campy, and life-affirming space for all genders and orientations. The fans have given this film a life far beyond what its creators could have imagined.”
As Trixie Mattel notes in the documentary, while Rocky Horror might seem like a relic, its themes and significance remain profoundly relevant. This makes Strange Journey not only a celebration but a timely reminder of the movie’s continuing impact.
For those interested in the broader film industry, this documentary offers a rare glimpse into how a single film can influence decades of culture and inspire ongoing fan devotion. To explore more about similar genres or iconic movie characters, visit Movie Genre and Movie Characters.
Prepare to revisit the magic, madness, and monumental legacy of The Rocky Horror Picture Show through Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror—a must-watch for cinephiles and fans of cult films alike.
