Happy Birthday Mr Rocky Horror

There’s a tradition I like to participate.  I get dressed up, make my way to the affair, and participate by singing the songs and the wisdom of the elders.  Sound a little like going to church?  This is something a little less formal but with the same concept.  Of course I’m talking about The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

The film is now forty years old, making it eleven years older then yours truly.

I first became acquainted with the film some years back while watching TV.  If memory serves correctly it was some sort of behind the scenes on the film.  From that moment forward I was hooked and I hadn’t even seen the film.  

The spring of my high school sophomore year that changed.  Over a decade later I still don’t know what possessed my mother to take me to a midnight showing of Rocky Horror.  (Regardless I still remain appreciative of this jester and thankful to have such an awesome mom).  I don’t recall ever telling her but that night remains one of my personal favorites.

I was so excited to go that I just couldn’t hide it.  The friday, filled with the normal routing of classes, seemed to go by slowly, like a child eagerly waiting for the spoils of Christmas morning.  Eventually dinner was devoured and we were on the road.  That was one long car ride to the movie theater all those miles away.  With ticket in hand I sat down.  

Then, oh boy, the festivities began.  When I was brought up to the front to take part in the right of passage my thoughts were something to the extent of what the hell have I gotten myself into?  After all I had a V put on my forehead in lipstick, a badge of pride by the end of the night, and I was doing a socially accepted pelvic thrust.  At this point I would like to remind you that my mother was in the auditorium.  I then rejoined her side and the house lights dimmed.  I would say it started but really it continued with the starting of the film.  

I WAS AND REMAIN TO THIS DAY HOOKED!

Through the course of the following 100 minutes I sang, danced, and yes took a few steps to the right after jumping to the left.

Of course I learned a few things watching this movie.  I learned more about homosexuality and this was my first time I became aware of transexuals.  What a way to broaden my horizons.

Since my awakening that Friday night many years ago I have purchased the DVD of Rocky Horror and it’s sequel Shock Treatment.  I watch Rocky Horror with some frequency and on occasion still attend the midnight movie madness.  Each time is a unique experience but pales in comparison to the night I lost my Rocky Horror virginity.

Thank you mom for taking me to the movies that night.