My chosen focus for the paradigm shift focus is the 1975 film, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. This film provided a sort of cultural reset in the 1970s, and showcases not only the evolution of rock and roll during this time period but also the progression of LGBTQ+ awareness and rights in modern society. My essay will cover mainly the 1970s and the dynamic ideologies of the time, but will also span up to the present day to highlight the lasting influence the film holds over popular culture even fifty years later.
I believe that this film is crucial for understanding the progression of LGBTQ+ rights and representation in media taking place during this time. Twenty years before this film was produced, it would have been unfathomable to see such a bold, unapologetic display of fluid gender and sexuality on screen or in real life. Because of this, it is essential for all members of society to understand and appreciate the broken precedent that this film represents. I plan to write this essay not only to honor LGBT history month, but also to tell a story which too often is untold. Additionally, I believe the key themes and messages found in the film are still highly relevant today, and the movie itself is widely (and weekly) celebrated across the country in the present.