The Rocky Horror Picture Show Blu-ray Review

Fox's remaster of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" on Blu-ray boasts an exceptionally well-executed 1080p AVC-encoded transfer, utilizing a stunning all-new 2K/4K master from the original camera negatives. Presented in its intended 1.66:1 aspect ratio, this transfer offers phenomenal clarity and a naturally filmic quality, devoid of any digital noise reduction (DNR), edge enhancement, or excessive digital tweaking. The picture is impressively clean, with minimal instances of white flecks and a beautifully intact grain structure. This results in a warm, rich, and life-like representation, elevating visual details such as the intricate lines of fishnets and the shimmering texture of sequined gloves to a level far superior to previous DVD releases.

Color reproduction is particularly strong in this release, with vivid and accurate hues that enhance iconic elements of the film—from the luscious reds of Frank's lips to the striking magenta rays from Riff Raff's laser beams. The blue stage curtains and rainbow colors of Rocky's tank maintain their vibrancy, while black levels are deep and well-balanced without causing shadow crushing. Although the scenes featuring the criminologist narrator appear softer in comparison to the rest of the film, this does not detract significantly from the overall experience. Indeed, the overall definition is outstanding, allowing viewers to appreciate minute details such as Dr. Frank-N-Furter floating in the pool.

The meticulous attention to detail in this remaster is evident, delivering an image that's both refined and dynamic. Accompanied by robust contrast and minimal compression artifacts limited to slight noise in darker scenes, this transfer is a significant upgrade over prior formats. Whether you are revisiting the time warp or watching for the first time, this Blu-ray edition offers a visually exhilarating experience that does justice to this cult classic.

Fox has meticulously crafted a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track for "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," which amplifies the auditory experience to an exceptional level. Despite the original mono presentation, the added surround channels significantly enhance the film’s audio dimension. The mix is impeccably balanced, dynamically solid, and envelops the listener with immersive ambience, such as rain, thunderclaps, and tolling bells subtly placed in the rears. The masterfully arranged 7.1 presentation ensures each instrument occupies its own space within the soundfield, resulting in a compelling auditory experience. However, a few instances of spoken dialogue might appear somewhat low, necessitating minor volume adjustments depending on individual hearing abilities.

The standout component of this audio presentation is undoubtedly the music. The tracks are loud, clear, and vividly dynamic, giving even familiar ears a fresh and exhilarating encounter. Every musical element—from crunchy guitars to piercing horns and plaintive violins—is meticulously rendered, offering a heady mix that energizes the viewer. While some original audio elements showcase slight aging issues, such as mild muffling or peculiar vocal qualities from dubbed parts, these are minor concerns in an overall remarkable mix that fills the sound field impressively without becoming overwhelming.

In summary, this 7.1 mix breathes new life into a 35-year old classic, showcasing crisp dialogue, well-placed sound effects, and a vibrant, spacious audio experience. Fox’s dedication to enhancing the film’s sound quality not only makes each song sound better than ever but also immerses viewers in an extraordinary auditory journey that parallels the enthusiastic cult status of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." The result serves both purists and newcomers alike with a dimensionally rich and thoroughly engaging soundtrack.

The Blu-ray edition of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" offers an extensive and immersive array of extras that elevate the home viewing experience to match the film's cult theatrical appeal. Fans will appreciate in-depth bonus content such as the Trivia Track, providing informative pop-ups about the film, and the Vintage Callback Track, reminiscent of live audience interactions. Interactive features like the Prop Box and a live shadowcast performance Picture-in-Picture add an engaging layer, accommodating the midnight movie atmosphere. Notable inclusions are the comprehensive shadowcast auditions documented in "The Search for the 35th Anniversary Shadowcast" and the karaoke-style Rocky-Oke. Commentary with Richard O'Brien and Patricia Quinn is both insightful and entertaining. Nostalgic elements, like the Alternate Black and White Opening, Mick Rock’s photography segments, and a hefty selection of retrospective content from the “A Few From the Vault” section, further enrich this robust collection.

Extras included in this disc:

Trivia Track: Pop-up trivia about the film, cast, and creators.

Vintage Callback Track: Subtitles guiding audience participation.

Prop Box: Virtual props to simulate audience traditions.

The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture-in-Picture Show: Live shadowcast performance.

The Search for the 35th Anniversary Shadowcast: Features auditions of shadowcast participants.

Rocky-Oke: Sing It!: Karaoke-style lyrics with optional vocal track removal.

Commentary with Richard O'Brien and Patricia Quinn: Engaging reminiscences by cast members.

Play with Alternate Black and White Opening: The first twenty minutes in black and white until the ‘Time Warp’.

Mick Rock (A Photographer): Photographer Mick Rock discusses documenting the shoot.

Mick Rock's Picture Show: Self-playing gallery of Mick Rock's photos.

A Few From the Vault:

• Two Deleted Musical Scenes
• Alternate Outtakes
• Alternate Credit Ending and Misprint Ending
• Rocky Horror Double Feature Video Show
• Beacon Theater 10th Anniversary Showing
• Time Warp Music Video
• Trailers
• Press book Gallery and Poster Gallery

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" remains the epitome of cult films and an unparalleled midnight movie champion. Originally a stage musical by Richard O'Brien, who also portrays Riff Raff, the narrative cleverly parodies B-movie sci-fi and horror tropes while satirizing mainstream America's response to the sexual revolution. Despite contemporary culture's pervasive openness towards sex, the film still exudes a palpable sense of taboo, largely due to Tim Curry's omnisexual portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Curry’s performance, in fishnets and corset, continues to set an unmatched standard for flamboyant characters. Key to its enduring appeal is the audience participation element— fans worldwide engage in interactive rituals during screenings, turning the movie into a unique pop culture phenomenon.

The plot is secondary to the visual and auditory spectacle the film offers. It follows Brad Majors (Barry Bostwick) and Janet Weiss (Susan Sarandon), two conservative youths whose encounter with the enigmatic Dr. Frank-N-Furter and his creation, Rocky Horror (Peter Hinwood), spirals them into an unanticipated journey through hedonism and self-discovery. The film's narrative arc and characters serve as vehicles for its highly memorable musical numbers. Songs like "Time Warp," "Science Fiction/Double Feature," and "Don’t Dream It, Be It" are deeply enmeshed in pop culture, invoking a nostalgia for '50s doo-wop filtered through a glam-punk aesthetic. Additionally, the Blu-ray release presents both U.S. and U.K. versions, offering viewers the restored "Superheroes" song in the latter. This package ensures new and old fans can enjoy a pristine rendition of this timeless musical extravaganza.

Maintaining its quirky charm and progressive oddness, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" stands as a testament to embracing individualism and unreserved acceptance of one's quirks. Its reception at both midnight showings and home viewings underscores its versatility and enduring appeal. This film continues to enthral audiences not just with its infectious music but also with its celebration of unconventionality, turning every viewing experience into an event worth remembering.

"The Rocky Horror Picture Show" Blu-ray offers an unmatched viewing experience that will enthrall both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. The film, celebrating its 35th anniversary, shines with its eclectic mix of catchy music, memorable performances, and endearing B-movie charm. The Blu-ray presentation boasts pristine audio and video quality, ensuring a visually and audibly captivating experience that mirrors the excitement of a late-night theater screening. Special features are plentiful and engaging, providing a deep dive into the unique world of "Rocky Horror" that fans will greatly appreciate.

Standout elements include the 'Midnight Experience' option, which successfully mimics the interactive nature of traditional midnight showings. This feature allows viewers to chant, sing, and partake in prop-throwing as if they were part of the live audience, capturing the essence of the film's cult status. The technical prowess of this disc is evident in its meticulous transfer, delivering sharp visuals and clear audio that elevate the overall production quality significantly.

I need say no more. If you're a Rocky Horror fan, this Blu-ray—with its excellent audio/video presentation and generous array of extras—is an unmitigated must-own release. And for all you virgins out there, what are you waiting for? You owe it to yourself to see "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" at least once—if only to say that you have. Highly recommended!