Who Plays the Main Character in The Rocky Horror Picture Show?

While The Rocky Horror Picture Show boasts a vibrant ensemble cast, many consider Dr. Frank-N-Furter, the sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania, played with iconic gusto by Tim Curry, to be the film’s central and most memorable character. However, the film technically follows the journey of Brad Majors and Janet Weiss, played by Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon, who stumble upon Frank-N-Furter’s castle, initiating the narrative and providing the audience’s entry point into this bizarre world.

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Unpacking the Protagonists: A Matter of Perspective

Determining the true “main character” of The Rocky Horror Picture Show depends heavily on interpretation. Is it the character who drives the plot, the one we identify with most, or the one who leaves the most lasting impression? Let’s consider the contenders:

Frank-N-Furter: The Antagonist as Protagonist? While technically the antagonist, Frank-N-Furter undeniably dominates the screen. Tim Curry’s electrifying performance cemented the character as a cultural icon. Frank-N-Furter’s actions, his desires, and ultimately his demise are the catalysts for the film’s major events. His presence is so overwhelming that he often overshadows the nominal protagonists. He embodies the film’s themes of sexual liberation, challenging societal norms, and embracing the unconventional. Therefore, one could argue he is the main character due to sheer force of personality and narrative impact.
Brad and Janet: The Audience Stand-ins. Brad and Janet serve as the initial audience surrogates. They are the naive, conservative couple who are thrust into a world of outlandish costumes, sexual exploration, and shocking revelations. Their journey of self-discovery, albeit often played for comedic effect, reflects the audience’s own potential journey of acceptance and self-expression. However, their relatively passive roles after their arrival at the castle weaken their claim as the central characters. They react more than they act, experiencing the bizarre events unfolding around them rather than driving the narrative forward.
Riff Raff: The Narrator and Observer. Richard O’Brien, the writer of the original stage play and the film, plays Riff Raff, the seemingly subservient handyman. Riff Raff acts as a quasi-narrator, observing the events with a knowing detachment. He eventually reveals his true allegiance and ultimately takes control, suggesting a deeper power dynamic. While Riff Raff is crucial to the film’s plot, he lacks the central focus necessary to be considered the main character.

The Definitive Answer: It’s Complicated

Ultimately, The Rocky Horror Picture Show resists easy categorization. While Brad and Janet are arguably the protagonists in a traditional sense, Frank-N-Furter undoubtedly dominates the film, making him the closest thing to a main character in terms of impact and cultural significance. The film intentionally blurs the lines between protagonist and antagonist, challenging the audience to question their own assumptions and embrace ambiguity. The power dynamic shifts throughout the film, making a singular definitive answer challenging. Tim Curry’s masterful performance as Frank-N-Furter ensures that, regardless of technicalities, he remains the central figure in the Rocky Horror universe.

FAQs: Delving Deeper into The Rocky Horror Picture Show