Ben Feldman (Bug Out) directs this documentary filled with archival footage and images as well as contemporary interviews with Chili Peppers lead singer Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Jack Irons, and others. The doc’s focus, guitarist Hillel Slovak, has his voice digitally reconstructed to read pages from his diary that are filled with his artwork.
THE RISE OF THE RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS: OUR BROTHER, HILLEL
What’s it rated? R
When? 2026
Where’s it showing? Netflix
For Chili Pepper fans, it’s a remarkable inside look at the formation of this incredible band. It explains how Slovak didn’t play on the first Chili Peppers album because of a previous commitment in the band What is This? Seeing the organic creation of the band unfold in all its messy glory is beautiful and exciting.
For others, it’s simply a compelling exploration of a musical brotherhood, ’80s LA boyhood, and the sad inevitability of addiction. Kiedis, Flea, and Slovak met at Fairfax High School and immediately bonded over music. Their raw exuberance is joyous, and even if you don’t like their music, you’ll appreciate their energy. Kiedis was also addicted to heroin but recovered. Bullet dodged.
The documentary is strengthened by the inclusion of 1988 footage of the band’s European tour captured by a Dutch filmmaker who found the raw footage he thought was lost. Fascinating. (99 min.) ∆
This article appears in April 16-23, 2026.