Susan Sarandon’s adventurous spirit was on full display during the filming of the cult classic movie, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. In a new documentary titled “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror,” the iconic actress revealed the challenges she faced while shooting the low-budget film in London. Sarandon reminisced about the days when she had to move every few days because she did not have a fixed place to stay. “I would take my birth control pills and my toothbrush and I would go into a new apartment every few days,” she shared with a chuckle.
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The actress, now 78 years old, candidly spoke about the unique experience of living a B-movie lifestyle during the production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Despite the budget constraints, Sarandon expressed that she found the entire experience to be enjoyable. Her co-star, Barry Bostwick, also reflected on the challenging conditions on set, recalling, “I was wet and miserable most of the time.” However, both actors agreed that there was a certain charm to working on a project with limited resources.
Tim Curry, another key figure in the film, echoed Sarandon’s sentiments about the joyous atmosphere on set. He shared his love for every minute of the filming process, emphasizing the thrill of being part of such a unique project. The documentary sheds light on the deliberate choices made during production, with casting director Joel Thurm noting that certain elements were intentionally crafted to give the film a B-movie aesthetic. Thurm explained that even apparent errors were part of subverting the traditional filmmaking norms, adding to the overall charm of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
The groundbreaking nature of the film, combined with its modest budget and unconventional approach, contributed to its enduring appeal and cult status. Thurm touched on the complexities of production, where the line between intentional design choices and budget constraints often blurred. He highlighted the contradictions inherent in the movie, emphasizing how these contradictions added to its mystique and allure. The documentary, “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror,” premiered at SXSW and is now on the lookout for distribution, offering fans a deeper insight into the making of this legendary film.
As the cast and crew reflect on their time working on The Rocky Horror Picture Show, it is evident that the film’s impact extends far beyond its initial release. The documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs faced by the team, showcasing the creativity and passion that went into bringing this iconic movie to life. Despite the hurdles they encountered, Susan Sarandon and her co-stars embraced the unconventional spirit of the project, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of cinema.