When this reviewer was just approaching his teens, his older(cool)sister brought him along to a midnight screening of “THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW,” a true “cult film” if there ever was one! It was the first time wherein audiences were “expected” to talk to the screen’s ongoing action, and even throw things, as part of the intended interactive experience. Popular with college audiences, it was also plenty of fun for a twelve year old, although questionable as to its appropriateness.

Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon(she was a beauty at one time!)star as Brad and Janet, two conservative youngsters, recently engaged, whose only shelter from a storm, after their car suffers from a flat, lies in a spooky castle. Things are bizarre from their first interaction with the butler, Riff Raff(creator of “Rocky Horror”), but pushed even farther, upon meeting Dr. Frank N Furter(Tim Curry) introducing himself, while singing he’s just a “Sweet transvestite from Transsexual Transylvania.” Even as a kid, the sexual exploration of the film was uncomfortable to watch, so this is definitely not one for youngsters. Much of the twisted, plot has the mad doctor trying to seduce both Brad and Janet, and convert both to his practice of sexuality. Humorous as the film is in many parts, it will disturb many a viewer as well. However, this reviewer still gets a prurient thrill every time when watching a young, beautiful Susan Sarandon sing “Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch me.” (actually, a pretty good song). The film’s plot isn’t really well connected, and it plays off more as a variety show, amped up with sexuality and rock tunes. In fact, one of the best songs, “HOT PATOOTIE,” is performed by Mealoaf, as Eddie, a biker soon to meet a grisly(again, more disturbing)end.

While it’s doubtful there will be any tears during the finale, wherein Tim Curry sings a semi-ballad, intending to give some sort of free-wheeling message, and the androgynous aspect of his character is more off-putting than endearing, there is an undeniable entertainment factor to the film, making it ripe for revisiting, and younger(teens/college students)will find this release a perfect gift that keeps on giving with successive viewings/viewing parties.

FOX has provided the correct 1.66:1 aspect ratio for this AVC MPEG-4 1080p blu-ray.  Colors are solid, highlighting the creativity of the fun production design. Detail is terrific! Costuming and facial close-ups stand out the most in terms of clarity, but even long shots look great. Inky blacks help retain the depth in darker moments. A great looking, film-like transfer, and notably better than the dvd.

FOX has provided a DTS-HD MA (7.1) mix! How good is the remix of a mono track? OUTSTANDING! The most enduring aspect of the show/film is the music, and it’s never sounded better than it is here! While some dialogue is lost to overshadowing elements in songs, the majority of this mix is perfectly balanced. The mix doesn’t try to do much with elements aside of music(ambient effects, while fun, are still restrained), but it’s hard to imagine anyone not loving what’s been achieved with the immersive quality of the soundtrack.

FOX has gone all out to make this release one worth seeking out! There are plenty of “in-feature” offerings, including:

A pop-up trivia option.

A track option wherein a 1983 audience can be heard yelling the traditional lines to onscreen action.

A double feature(Picture-in-picture) presentation, offering a performance with various cast from around the world appearing in lower right of the screen as the film plays out.

A nearly hour-long featurette(1080i)examining the search for audience participants to participate in a “shadowcast” specifically designed for this release!

A Karaoke option, allowing for the option of the vocal tracks to be silenced, so participants can try out their own singing skills.

Commentary with Richard O’Brien(creator) and Patricia Quinn. And, still,…much, much more!!!