Saturday, October 3, 2009

Mondo Dicitionary: The 'Rocky Horror' Effect

Who does not love The Rocky Horror Picture Show? I mean, besides the fact that it is a top-heavy film that lumbers into its second act and falls apart in its third. Who cares? Everyone loves 'Time Warp' and 'Sweet Transvestite,' so that is enough. Plus, look at all the big hits that Richard O'Brien (the songwriter) worked on afterward like Shock Treatment and The Return of Captain Invincible. Those were hits, right? The effect of this movie served as the precursor to The Evil Dead Effect, but is arguably the more notable one. Basically, people purposely tried to make 'cult classic' films. Did it always work? No. Let's check some of these out...

Attack of the Killer Tomatoes: Love it or hate it (I'm the previous), but it managed to succeed at its goal. The fact that they made three sequels should say something.

The Return of Captain Invincible: I mentioned this earlier, but this is a clear example. It features songs by O'Brien, but is actually an Australian film. It's quirky and stupid, but has some good moments. It's obsession with Benny Hill-style comedy makes it hit-or-miss for most people though.

Wild Zero: A Japanese rock band fighting zombies from outer space? This just screams wannabe cult film. Only it's not good.

Everything by Troma and Full Moon: Do I really need to explain this? Nah.

That is obviously just the tip of the giant planet-sized iceberg. Stop and consider this for a moment though: people have been trying to emulate the business model of a film that made no money when it came out and only became successful over a 20 year period. Aim higher, guys!

Next on the list, my original update that I had planned. Stay tuned...

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