ADVERTISEMENT
People Like Us: The Cult of The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Lauren Everett, author
People Like Us: The Cult of The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a collection of environmental portraiture and documentary images that capture the vibrant DIY sub-culture of Rocky Horror fandom. Though there have been many titles about the film itself, this is the first and only photography series ever to focus on the remarkable story of the people behind the film's unprecedented 40 year theatrical run. The photos are augmented by a series of short essays by the cast members themselves, reflecting in their own words on what performing Rocky Horror means to them.
Rather than just approaching the subject at face value, the book delves into the realms of anthropology, sociology, film theory and theology to explain the mysterious, multi-layered phenomenon of the ultimate cult film.
Reviews
The enthusiasm and exuberance of fans of the 1975 cult film The Rocky Horror Picture Show buoys this photo-essay celebration of the subculture of cosplayers across America who regularly cross-dress in fishnet stockings and lingerie to reprise the outrageous antics of its characters at midnight screenings and conventions. Photographer Everett (Old Days) captures in full color the everyday folk who delight in periodically adopting the personas of Transylvanian transvestite mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter; his edgy associates, Riff Raff and Magenta; and Brad and Janet, the hitherto prim couple indoctrinated into the hedonistic sexuality of his time-warped pleasure palace. The photo spreads are peppered with quotes and observations from participants in these “shadow casts,” many of whom credit their performances with giving them an outlet for imaginative expression of identities denied them in their regular lives, and several who find them a means for exploring, in the words of one fan, “fundamental ideas about the performative nature of identity itself.” Strictly for fans who enjoy traveling the Rocky road, this book is a valentine to devotees who heed the slogan (in the words of one of its songs), “Don’t dream it—be it.” (BookLife)
