Of Flesh and Blood 1990
"A black-and-white noir retelling of porn star John Holmes' sordid descent into drugs, mayhem and murder."
Director Jeff Mentges trades rock stardom for celluloid grit in *Of Flesh and Blood*, a stark 1990 noir drama that plunges into the dark underbelly of late-'80s Los Angeles.
Director: Jeff Mentges
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Of Flesh and Blood (1990) about?
*Of Flesh and Blood* dives into the lurid underworld of late-'80s Hollywood through the lens of a fictionalized John Holmes story. The film explores his self-destructive spiral fueled by addiction, violence, and the hollow promises of fame.
Who directed Of Flesh and Blood?
Director Jeff Mentges, a former frontman for the infamous DC punk band No Trend, made his cinematic debut with this raw, black-and-white noir.
Who stars in Of Flesh and Blood?
The film features Al Breon in a leading role, supported by Dick Bangham, Joe Lee, John F. Simmons, and Steven Lorber.
Is Of Flesh and Blood (1990) worth watching?
With its unpolished aesthetic and unflinching themes, *Of Flesh and Blood* is a cult gem for fans of indie noir. While not mainstream polished, its gritty authenticity and low-budget charm make it a fascinating watch for genre enthusiasts.
How long is Of Flesh and Blood?
The film runs for 90 minutes.
About Of Flesh and Blood (1990) — A Noir Retelling of John Holmes' Darkest Days
Director Jeff Mentges trades rock stardom for celluloid grit in *Of Flesh and Blood*, a stark 1990 noir drama that plunges into the dark underbelly of late-'80s Los Angeles. Shot in eerie black-and-white on a shoestring $15K budget, the film weaves a fictionalized tale of John Holmes' self-destruction, blending real-life decadence with cinematic menace. The atmosphere crackles with neon shadows, simmering tension, and a raw, documentary-like edge as it follows Holmes' spiral into drugs, violence, and infamy. With a cast plucked from the director's own circle—including former No Trend bandmates and the beloved Al Breon in a standout role—*Of Flesh and Blood* captures a moment where underground energy met unfiltered chaos.
This cult curiosity isn't just a biographical sketch; it's a haunting character study of fame's rot, wrapped in the gritty aesthetics of vintage noir. The film's DIY aesthetic amplifies its themes of isolation and moral decay, making it a time capsule of an era when art and excess collided. For fans of raw, unpolished cinema that thrives on authenticity, *Of Flesh and Blood* delivers a visceral experience that lingers long after the credits roll.