She made her debut at the Royal Court Theatre in London in 1973, Rocky Horror Movie Show This work quickly became a classic. Two years after its success, it was made into a film, sticking with its stage counterpart. Rocky Horror It is known for its references to horror and science fiction, especially those that are considered low-budget and campy.
As a tribute to these films, it’s only fitting that the opening number highlights the films that came before it. The inspirations of these films are reflected in their production, costume design, and character portrayals, so it makes sense that the red lips that open the show would grab the audience’s attention, singing an ode to their previous films.
Films from the era that were shot in the “sci-fi/double feature” genre have a good mix of horror And Sci-fiAs the song title might suggest. Furthermore, the style of many science fiction films naturally includes many elements found in horror films, such as exploration into the unknown. So, it could be said that all of the references to films here are in one way or another references to classic horror films, with the possible exception of flash gordonBut to keep things simple, those movies that are primarily horror movies will be explored first.
Pointing out the main metaphors and types
Classic is the key word here when we encounter the first reference. Shortly after the “science fiction/double-screen” moment, viewers are treated to a true horror classic, with Claude Rains’ role in the 1933 film, Invisible ManThe beginning is strong. Invisible Man It represents the simplest horror possibilities in Hollywood.Although relatively overshadowed by its contemporaries, including Frankenstein And its supplements, Rocky Horror He understands his power within this genre.
Similarly, from 1933, the following reference is to Fay Wray's role in King Kong characterand unlike Invisible Manis definitely a more recognizable classic. Ray's role helped shape the character of the troubled girl, a character that was chosen as Janet's character.The foreshadowing of this in the opening number is something that can best be appreciated on one of many rewatches.
Then, we fast forward to 1953, and we're watching a sci-fi horror movie. It came from outer space. The name is mentioned. This is a short but sweet reference, reminding us of a movie that helped introduce people to the alien species on screen.This film provides some context for the backstory of characters like Frank N. Furter and Riff Raff. These quick references also point to the lack of information given about the origins of these characters in the film.
More specific personal references
Going back to the 1930s, this reference provides some depth to some of the themes and events that took place in Rocky HorrorThis is of course the mysterious horror, Dr. X From 1932, which, due to its pre-production release, got away with more daring themes of murder and rape. These tendencies remind viewers of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, especially after Eddie's appearance..
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More references to Janet's character appear as follows: Triffid Day It has been mentioned. The song follows Janet Scott's character Carden Goodwin as she fights off the advances of a plant monster.which later reminds us of Janet resisting desires inside the Forter Mansion.
The last horror movie to come out was the 1957 movie. Devil's NightStarring Carver Dana Andrews. Here, Andrews travels to England to investigate a Satanic cult. Like the other horror references in this issue, here Viewers are reminded that the characters and events are largely unknown, both throughout the film and at the end.It may be an alien movie, or it may have more sinister demonic qualities. However, all of the things that are referenced are somehow revealed, whether significant or fleeting, later in the film, while respecting the horror that came before it.
Goal setting science fiction
As the song begins, viewers hear a reference to Michael Rennie in the 1951 film, The day the earth stood still. Like Frank-N-Furter, Rennie's character is a pioneering alien who comes to Earth with a message. They're just very different messages delivered in very different ways.This immediately contrasts with the reference to Flash Gordon in his silver underwear, which viewers will remember after their first encounter with Rocky when he emerges from his closet wearing only gold underwear.
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Most interesting about this opening number is the 1955 monster movie, Tarantula!The combination of scientific experimentation and the feeling of being under someone else's control embodies the energy of camp and surrealism. Rocky Horror very goodIn this film, it feels as if the lyricists deliberately avoided choosing the film's most obvious monster. It leaves the viewer wondering about the choice and placement of all the references scattered throughout the film, and as with most of the events of the finale, it leaves that question unanswered.
In a way, this only serves to cement this opening number, along with the film itself, as one with an incredible legacy in popular culture. Among a stellar lineup of musical numbers, “Sci-Fi/Double-Show” is often cited as one of the best, and for good reason. The simple, yet catchy references prompt viewers to think back to those classics that paved the way for the film’s brilliance.
