Search - Larry Flynt: The Right to Be Left Alone on DVD

The truth only hurts neo-cons

David Land | Central Florida | 08/08/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"An astonishing indictment of corporate control over our media. The so-called "conservatives" who have taken away our free speech (and civil liberties) are complete hypocrites, as revealed over and over again. Why are they so afraid of sex? I think it's a control issue, definitely not normal. After all, without sex, no continuation of the species. That's why the sex drive is so very compelling; just look at the entire animal kingdom. By being outrageous, Larry Flynt keeps hammering away at the abuse of our First Amendment rights. His products may be over the top, but he definitely makes his point. I want this documentary available in colleges and repeated often on cable TV."

Biographical Portrayal With A Positive Slant

Chris Luallen | Nashville, Tennessee | 09/02/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This biographical documentary chronicles the career of Larry Flynt, from his days as a small time adult business owner in Ohio to wealthy porn kingpin and publisher of America's most controversial magazine.

It begins with some excellent archival footage of Flynt battling the "Ohio Citizens For Decency" back in the 70's. From there Hustler magazine goes nationwide and establishes a lucrative market niche by being the first men's magazine to "show pink". In the 80's Hustler drew the ire of sex-negative feminists and religious fanatics, like Jerry Falwell, through it's outrageous covers, photo shoots and political satire.

Other subjects covered include the death of Flynt's wife, Althea, due to drugs, the near fatal shooting of Flynt by a white supremacist and Flynt's imprisonment in a pyschiatric ward following his refusal to reveal a source to the FBI.

How much you like this doc will probably depend on how much you like Flynt. The doc is very much geared to portray Flynt as a heroic figure, particularly in his bold struggle for upholding the First Amendment. Despite his shortcomings, I generally agree with this assessment of Flynt as a brave and mostly admirable figure. But those who dislike Flynt will likely see this film as biased and unobjective. Personally, I found it worth watching."