JAKARTA - News about the launch of the latest documentary titled The Rise of the Red Hot Chili Peppers on the Netflix platform triggered a direct reaction from the members of the California-based band.
Previously, Netflix announced that the documentary directed by Ben Feldman was scheduled to premiere on March 20.
The film is designed to trace the early footsteps of the formation of the Red Hot Chili Peppers (RHCP) and highlight the profound influence of their original guitarist, Hillel Slovak, who died in 1988 from an overdose.
Even though they appeared as sources, Anthony Kiedis et al. firmly stated that they were not creatively involved in this film project.
Through a statement uploaded on the official Instagram account, RHCP clarified their position so that there would be no misunderstanding in the eyes of fans.
They objected to the film being marketed as an "official documentary" about the band's journey in its entirety.
"About a year ago, we were asked to be interviewed for a documentary about Hillel Slovak. He was a founding member of the group, a great guitarist, and a friend. We agreed to be interviewed because of our love and respect for Hillel and his memories," the band wrote.
Furthermore, RHCP emphasized the fundamental difference between involvement as a source and creative control holder.
"This documentary is now advertised as a Red Hot Chili Peppers documentary, but it actually isn't. We have absolutely no creative input in it. We haven't even made an official Red Hot Chili Peppers documentary to date," they said.
Despite withdrawing from the production side, the band, which is now back with John Frusciante, still provides moral support for the screening of this film. They hope the public can get to know Slovak better, who is considered the early life of RHCP music.
"The main subject of this Netflix special is Hillel Slovak, and we hope this will spark public interest in his works," the statement added.
Hillel Slovak's figure does have a deep emotional place for Anthony Kiedis. In an interview with NME earlier, the vocalist revealed how big his influence was even though he had been gone for decades.
"Hillel Slovak's energy never really faded. I wish Hillel hadn't missed that first recording. He was the creator of this band. It was his baby. However, Hillel remains in our hearts, whether it's 30, 40, 50, or even 100 years later," said Kiedis.
The documentary The Rise of the Red Hot Chili Peppers itself promises a narrative about the teenage friendship that shapes the identity of a band that will later make history.
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