A new documentary chronicling the legacy of The Rocky Horror Show is set to hit UK cinemas this autumn. Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror, from Kaleidoscope Entertainment, will premiere at Sheffield DocFest on June 19, with additional festival screenings planned before its official release in UK and Irish cinemas on October 3.
Following its debut at SXSW, Strange Journey has drawn praise for its comprehensive and intimate exploration of the Rocky Horror phenomenon. The film will next screen at the SCI-FI-LONDON Film Festival on June 22, followed by its Irish premiere at the GAZE Film Festival on August 3. Additional preview screenings and festival appearances are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Directed by Linus O’Brien – son of Rocky Horror creator and star Richard O’Brien — the documentary traces the iconic show’s rise from a fringe theatre production in London to a global cult sensation. Featuring never-before-seen interviews and rare archival footage, the film dives deep into the show’s lasting influence, transgressive themes, and cultural resonance.
Notably, the film includes candid contributions from original cast members including Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Patricia Quinn, and Nell Campbell. These interviews shed light on the enduring legacy of the show’s groundbreaking performances and iconic songs.
Strange Journey also brings in voices from across generations, including celebrity fans such as Jack Black and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” winner Trixie Mattel, who share personal reflections on Rocky Horror’s cultural impact and continued relevance.
With its unique access and heartfelt perspective, Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror is sure to be the definitive chronicle of a show that transformed musical theatre and cinema.
Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror will celebrate its UK premiere at Sheffield DocFest with two special screenings: the first on Thursday 19 June at 8:00 PM at the Crucible Theatre, followed by a Q&A with director Linus O’Brien and original contributors Richard Hartley and Patricia Quinn, moderated by Carol Nahra; and a second on Saturday 21 June at 10:00 AM at Showroom Cinema, featuring a Q&A with O’Brien moderated by Clodagh Chapman – tickets available here. The film will then make its Irish premiere at GAZE on Sunday 3 August at 5:15 PM at the Irish Film Institute – tickets available here.
