Why is art necessary? Is it purely for escapism? Sometimes, but art, in any form, does something much more profound: it offers people a community where they can be seen and heard for who they truly are. While that might sound quaint, it is sincerely the reason people worldwide fight to keep art alive in any way they can. A space to find one’s true self is at the heart of director Allison Sloan Berg’s Time Warp, which, yes, does revolve around The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
The documentary takes place in the small town of Rock Springs, Wyoming. Kenny Starling moved there to take over a defunct theater. Given the performer’s history and love for shadow casting, it only makes sense for Starling and his Starling Company to stage a performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The issue is that Rock Springs is not as progressive as other parts of the United States, and the handful of high school students who are out experience harassment and bullying. However, Starling is giving these people and their allies a way to express themselves, however they see fit. Unfortunately, much like the high school bullies who roam the halls, there are those in Rock Springs who feel the show is inappropriate or some form of a politically charged performance. These folks take to the city council to air their grievances. Throughout it all, Kenny Starling leads with patience and love, but is that enough for the Starling Company to be allowed to put on their Rocky Horror love letter?
“…much like the high school bullies who roam the halls, there are those in Rock Springs who feel the show is inappropriate…”
Time Warp is not a look back, but an in-the-moment journey. Berg takes a page out of Starling’s book and directs with compassion toward her subject. In an interview with two young residents near train tracks, the director asks, “Who in this world is your support system?” The two interviewees point to each other, even as their own families, try as they might, don’t fully understand them. Once the 112-minute runtime ends, that support system will have grown, and there is absolute joy in watching that happen.
Time Warp is inspiring, eye-opening, sweet, and even a little educational. But what makes it a perfect film, a must-see, is the sense of community that evolves throughout the rehearsal process. Anyone feeling lost, confused, or afraid can take solace in Berg’s documentary and know that they belong somewhere. A line from the show/movie becomes the mantra of the shadow cast production: “Don’t dream it. Be it.” I cannot think of any better takeaway from this profoundly moving masterpiece.
"…[a] profoundly moving masterpiece."
