17 Surprising Behind-the-Scenes Secrets That Will Change How You View "Rocky Horror Picture Show"!
2024-10-14
Author: Charlotte
Origins of "Easter Eggs"
The concept of hidden Easter eggs in films is rumored to have originated on the set of *Rocky Horror Picture Show*. Cast members would sneak items into scenes, though many remain undiscovered in the final cut! Can you spot any hidden treasures?
Lip Sync Surprise
Patricia Quinn, who portrays Magenta, performed the memorable lips during the opening number. However, she was actually lip-syncing to Richard O'Brien's vocals.
A Hilarious Mishap
While recording her lip-sync, Quinn had to be clamped to keep her head still, as she hilariously kept moving out of frame due to the lighting setup.
Accidental Injury
In one memorable scene, Barry Bostwick unintentionally crushes Susan Sarandon's hand with a forceful gesture. Sarandon’s shocked reaction is too genuine to miss!
Revenge in Heels
Sarandon got back at Bostwick by stepping on his foot with her spiky heels during the final number, and yes, his hilarious expression captures the moment.
Royal Fan
Even Princess Diana couldn't resist the allure of *Rocky Horror*! She once told Tim Curry, who played Frank-N-Furter, that the movie “quite completed my education.
Chilly Conditions
Sarandon caught pneumonia while filming the pool scene since the location lacked heating or restroom facilities—yikes!
A Close Call with Fire
The cast tried to keep warm with a tent that ended up catching fire—thankfully, Sarandon was not inside!
Makeup Transformation
Tim Curry’s transformation into Frank-N-Furter took an impressive two hours every day, showcasing the dedication behind this iconic role.
Audition Surprises
Did you know Steve Martin auditioned for the role of Brad Majors? A bizarre twist of fate led Bostwick to take on the role instead.
On-Set Romance
Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon were dating during the filming, a piece of trivia shared by Richard O'Brien in a 2013 interview.
Stage Origins
The play that inspired the film was written by Richard O'Brien himself, who acted as Riff Raff in both the stage and screen versions.
Rocky’s Belly Button Mystery
Rocky’s prosthetic plug covering his belly button hints at Frank-N-Furter’s creation: without an umbilical cord, his birth would be rather unorthodox!
A Fortuitous Audition
Acting was not Susan Sarandon’s area of strength, especially singing. She originally visited the set just to see Tim Curry and ended up singing "Happy Birthday" to the casting directors, unknowingly landing the role!
Meat Loaf’s Stunt Double
Believe it or not, Meat Loaf had never ridden a motorcycle before filming! Stunt doubles and clever editing created the illusion.
Cultural References
In the wedding photo at the film’s start, the two figures in the background are nods to Grant Wood's famous painting *American Gothic*. Look closely, because it’s a subtle reference hidden in plain sight!
A Real Skeleton
The clock featured in the film is not just a prop; it contains a genuine skeleton that was auctioned off for over $60,000 at Sotheby's in 2003.
Conclusion
Next time you watch *Rocky Horror Picture Show*, keep these interesting tidbits in mind; they make this cinematic gem even more special! Have you ever attended a midnight screening of this outrageous classic? Share your experiences and favorite moments in the comments below!