MTV readies 'Rocky Horror' redux

Network to remake 1975 cult classic

By DANIEL FRANKEL

MTV's set to remake cult tuner 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' which has grossed $140 million domestically since its 1975 release.

MTV is doing the time warp on a remake of 1975 cult classic "The Rocky Horror Picture Show."

Lou Adler, exec producer of the original film, is partnering with BermanBraun and Fox Television Studios on the new rendition.

Two-hour remake will use the original screenplay by Jim Sharman and Richard O'Brien but may also include music not featured in the original.

Helmer and casting decisions have yet to be announced.

Fox is sin discussions with BSkyB and Sky Movies to co-finance and distribute the telepic abroad.

Timetable for the start of production hasn't been established yet but the partners aim to move forward quickly once the final elements are in place.

"I'd like to see it shown a year from this coming Halloween, but that's up to MTV," Adler said.

BermanBraun principal Gail Berman will exec produce the project along with partner Lloyd Braun. Berman has been attached to a "Rocky Horror" remake dating back to her tenure as Fox programming chief (Daily Variety, July 1, 2002).

The original "Rocky Horror," starring Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick and Meatloaf, has grossed $140 million in domestic box office over the years, primarily from the wallets of youthful audience members who have shown up for midnight screenings over the past three decades.