The 1975 film “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” has received a new 4K restoration by Walt Disney Studios. The movie is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, with a theatrical re-release planned. More on that later. Jim Sharman directed the film, which starred Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Richard O’Brien, Patricia Quinn, and Meat Loaf.
The full details about that 4K restoration are below, taken from today’s press release.
CELEBRATING FIFTY YEARS OF
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW
With 4K Film Restoration and Special Events
Do The Time Warp Again When The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Arrives in Theaters and on Blu-ray™ in 4K Ultra HD™ Later This Year!
BURBANK, CA (April 30, 2025) – This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, the genre-defying cult classic that transformed midnight cinema and inspired a global phenomenon. First introduced to audiences in 1975, the film quickly became more than just a movie – it sparked a movement.
Based on the musical play by Richard O’Brien – with a screenplay by O’Brien and director Jim Sharman, and produced by Lou Adler and Michael White – The Rocky Horror Picture Show broke the mold with its unforgettable characters, flamboyant costumes, and audacious rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack. Through its legendary late-night screenings, complete with shadow casts, fan costumes, and interactive rituals, the film pioneered a new kind of audience participation that redefined the moviegoing experience. Today, with weekly screenings around the world, The Rocky Horror Picture Show continues to make history as the longest-running theatrical release of all time.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary, a newly restored and remastered version of The Rocky Horror Picture Show will be unleashed in breathtaking 4K Ultra HD, and crowned by the debut of a dazzling new anniversary logo.
Overseen by the Walt Disney Studios Restoration team, the 10-month project included a meticulous digital scan and preservation process that ensures every frame of the cult classic is presented with unprecedented clarity and vibrancy. The restoration also features a newly mixed Dolby Atmos audio track, bringing enhanced depth and dimension to the film’s iconic soundtrack. For purists and longtime fans, the original mono audio has been fully restored as well – allowing audiences to experience the film exactly as it was heard when it first premiered five decades ago.
“It’s a privilege to help preserve the legacy of a film that has meant so much to so many,” says Kevin Schaeffer, Director of Restoration & Library Management. “Bringing The Rocky Horror Picture Show to life in 4K allows us to honor its bold, genre-defying spirit and ensure that audiences – both longtime fans and first-time viewers – can experience it as it was originally intended, with stunning picture and sound.”
“When The Rocky Horror Picture Show was first released, no one thought it would be around very long let alone…50 years,” says producer Lou Adler. “What began as a small, rebellious project has become a global celebration of individuality, community, and creative freedom. This anniversary is a tribute to the fans who kept it alive and kicking all these years.”
“When The Rocky Horror Picture Show was first released, no one thought it would be around very long let alone…50 years,” says producer Lou Adler. “What began as a small, rebellious project has become a global celebration of individuality, community, and creative freedom. This anniversary is a tribute to the fans who kept it alive and kicking all these years.”
Watch for future announcements on the 50th anniversary celebrations for The Rocky Horror Picture Show!
So, a 4K UHD Blu-ray physical media release of the film is indeed planned for later this year. This press release part of the headline gives us that information: “on Blu-ray™ in 4K Ultra HD™ Later This Year!” Stay tuned on social media and also check this post for updates later. I’ll update it when they announce the theatrical re-release, and it’ll be back in theaters. And of course, stay tuned for when the physical 4K UHD Blu-ray gets announced.
