Brad Majors: The Everyman of the Rocky Horror Picture Show

The All-American Boy

In a world of fishnets and flamboyant characters, Brad Majors seems ordinary—and that’s precisely what makes his journey so extraordinary. The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a cinematic phenomenon that has captivated audiences for decades, is a celebration of the unconventional. Within this kaleidoscope of gender-bending, music, and madness, Brad Majors, one of the film’s central protagonists, initially appears to be nothing more than a typical, unassuming young man. However, the rollercoaster of events he experiences in a Transylvanian castle reveals the depths of his hidden desires and fears. Brad Majors is the audience’s window into this world of madness, and his transformation into the story’s everyman is a key part of the film’s message.

Brad Majors arrives on the scene as a perfectly crafted archetype. He is the clean-cut, wholesome fiancé of Janet Weiss. He is the epitome of the “all-American boy”, complete with neatly combed hair, horn-rimmed glasses, and a nervous demeanor. His world revolves around his fiancée, a budding romance, and a trip to see an old college professor. He is a product of his time and the society he was raised in, reflecting the societal norms of the era. His behavior is defined by conformity, his values centered around maintaining a respectable image. The film, from the outset, establishes him as a character deeply rooted in traditional American values, representing the societal standards that The Rocky Horror Picture Show is poised to challenge.

Brad’s initial introduction with Janet in the opening scenes solidifies this image. Their interaction is filled with the awkwardness of two young people navigating the early stages of romance. They are planning their wedding. This is the world of Brad; a predictable, safe, and ordinary life. Their courtship is a demonstration of the “wholesome couple”.

His initial portrayal emphasizes his innocence and naiveté. He is a character that the audience can relate to, someone who seemingly has everything mapped out for him. He is clearly out of his element as they drive through the rain.

The Storm and the Castle

The best-laid plans quickly go awry. A sudden rainstorm and a flat tire force Brad and Janet to seek shelter. Their search leads them to the ominous, secluded mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. This pivotal moment marks the turning point in Brad’s journey, the point of entry into a realm far removed from his mundane existence. The castle, with its gothic architecture and shadowy interiors, serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Brad’s initial reaction upon encountering the mansion speaks volumes. The sheer strangeness of the environment unsettles him. He displays a mixture of apprehension and curiosity, a clear sign that his world is about to be turned upside down. This reaction, and the subsequent events, serve as the catalyst for the transformation that will define his character arc.

Into the Transylvanian Party

The moment Brad enters the castle, he is immediately immersed in an atmosphere of excess and hedonism. The Transylvanian party is a spectacle of unconventionality, where the boundaries of gender, sexuality, and societal norms are blurred. The costumes are vibrant, the music is loud, and the behavior of the inhabitants is unrestrained. He is witnessing a reality far from the world he has known. The contrast between Brad’s conservative upbringing and the castle’s outlandish culture is stark, setting the stage for his internal conflict.

Brad’s discomfort is apparent as he navigates the party. He feels out of place, overwhelmed by the explicit displays of sexuality and the disregard for social etiquette. He is shocked by the gender-bending and sexual freedom that is so openly embraced. He is a fish out of water, a representative of conventional morality in a world where such concepts hold no sway.

Awakening and Confrontation

The events that unfold within the castle provide an environment for exploring sexual awakening, the film’s central theme, especially in the character of Brad Majors. As Brad navigates the castle and interacts with the castle’s inhabitants, he finds himself increasingly drawn into the world of sensuality and liberation. He is both bewildered and intrigued by the sexual freedom that is on display.

One of the most critical scenes in this transformation is Brad’s encounter with Frank-N-Furter, which results in an experience that challenges his established ideas of sex and gender. This confrontation is not merely physical; it is a psychological test. The castle, and Frank-N-Furter, push Brad to the limits of his comfort zone. The experience leads Brad to consider his own desires, opening him up to a world he had never imagined.

The Intertwined Relationships

The development of Brad’s relationships within the castle environment is a vital component of his metamorphosis. His connection with Janet, is severely tested.

As Brad and Janet are exposed to the decadent lifestyles and new experiences, their once-solid relationship begins to fray. The secrets, temptations, and betrayals that follow threaten the foundation of their commitment.

Social Commentary

The character of Brad Majors offers a powerful form of social commentary. The film makes strong statements by positioning a character that embodies traditional values and expectations. The Rocky Horror Picture Show uses Brad as a tool to challenge the very foundations of his existence.

Brad’s experience in the castle reflects the societal constraints of the time, particularly regarding sexuality and gender roles. His initial discomfort and gradual acceptance of the castle’s unconventional lifestyle speak volumes about how the film portrays traditional norms.

Brad Majors, then, becomes a vehicle for the film’s satire. His transformation allows the filmmakers to challenge the notions of innocence and societal expectations and question the validity of rigid boundaries.

Humor and Satire

Throughout the film, Brad often plays the part of the comic relief. His befuddled expressions, his awkward interactions, and his desperate attempts to maintain control in a chaotic environment provide moments of levity.

The film’s humor is a key element of its message. Brad’s reactions allow the film to poke fun at social norms, particularly the uptight, conservative values he initially represents. The juxtaposition of Brad’s innocence with the decadent events happening around him creates a comedic dynamic that reinforces the film’s satirical tone.

The End and Aftermath

By the film’s conclusion, Brad is no longer the same man who drove up to the castle seeking help. He has changed. His transformation is complete. He’s seen the light. The sexual awakening experienced will shape the remainder of his life.

The character of Brad leaves a lasting impact, and his trajectory continues to be explored and analyzed. The power of Brad’s experiences resonates with audiences and has cemented his place in film history.

The Legacy of Brad Majors

Brad Majors, within The Rocky Horror Picture Show, transcends the status of a simple character. He becomes a symbol of vulnerability, a reminder that personal growth and transformation can be both terrifying and liberating.

Brad continues to resonate with audiences because he is essentially an “everyman,” a person who is confronted with situations outside his comfort zone. His journey is an exploration of self-discovery. His ultimate fate is a testament to the transformative power of confronting one’s innermost fears and desires. His story is one of liberation, a testament to the film’s enduring legacy. Through Brad Majors, The Rocky Horror Picture Show invites its audience to embrace their identities and question the structures that define our lives.