Fifty Years Ago, A Dark Cinema - By Carine Hartman

Written By: Carine Hartman

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In Carine Hartman's short story "Fifty Years Ago, A Dark Cinema," the reader is transported to a time of youthful discovery and cinematic enchantment. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Hartman captures a poignant moment in a dark cinema, weaving a narrative rich with nostalgia and self-realization. The story reflects on a personal journey ignited by the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and the transformative power of film.

About the Work

Hartman's narrative is suffused with vivid imagery and a nostalgic tone, capturing the essence of a pivotal cinematic experience. Through her evocative prose, she delves into the impact of an iconic film character, highlighting themes of liberation and self-acceptance. Her story is a heartfelt tribute to the allure of the unconventional and the awakening of a young soul to a broader world of diversity and acceptance.

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Original Submission by Carine Hartman

Fifty years ago, a dark cinema in Hillbrow and red lips explode across the screen.

I’m a tender 18, used to only hairdressers in town being moffies, and not prepared for Dr Frank-N-Furter’s sequined high heels stomping down a lift; throwing the cage open with an “I’m just a sweet Transvestite”.

I fell in love that night with a caped man with blue eyeshadow who just wickedly, wickedly seduces you.

And I knew he was going to be banned because, like me, the Censor Board didn’t know what those red lips started…

I saw Rocky Horror Picture Show three times in two weeks – just to live a mad, crazy world I so badly wanted to be part of.

Time Warp didn’t do it for me; Meatloaf didn’t either: I lived to see my caped crusader: Tim Curry.

And for that I thank you, Tim.

You were never evil Pennywise. You were always just evil Frank-N-Furter, believing you make our world a better place.

You sure made my world a better place. You yanked me out of my small-town girl mentality; taught me black humour – but above all: acceptance of those not quite like me.

May you rest now…

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar invites writers from around the world to share their unique voices and stories. Showcasing a diverse range of talent, the competition embraces a variety of genres, offering a platform for established and emerging writers to express their creativity and engage with a global audience.

We extend our gratitude to Carine Hartman for her evocative submission, "Fifty Years Ago, A Dark Cinema," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your narrative resonates with the transformative power of cinema and the enduring impact of art on personal growth and acceptance. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.