“It’s Saturday night at Eastgate Theater and people dressed in far-out costumes, carrying shopping bags of rice, matches, lighters, newspapers, toast and party favors are waiting in line for a movie,” The Chattanooga Times reported in August 1978.
That movie was “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
A flop upon its initial release in 1975, the film has developed a strong cult following in the years since, due to its showing in small theaters and at midnight screenings, the Times report said. Now, as the film celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, Chattanoogans have several opportunities to take part in its legacy at area venues this Halloween season.
“As in other cities around the United States, some Chattanooga fans dress up like characters in the movie and participate with the film,” the newspaper reported in 1978. That tradition continues as upcoming screenings feature shadow casts and audience participation.