Life After Flash

Life After Flash is a remarkable 2017 documentary that explores the life of Sam J. Jones since his iconic performance as Flash Gordon in the classic 1980 film. This illuminating feature goes beyond a typical behind-the-scenes glimpse, offering a deeply personal profile that’s both engaging and evocative. The film is an intimate look at his life, the iconic role he played, the indelible influence it had, and how the aftershocks of Flash Gordon's pop-culture impact continue to reverberate in his life today.

Directed by Lisa Downs, the film delves into the diverse experiences of Sam J. Jones, offering audiences an authentic view of the man beyond the mask of Flash Gordon. It’s an intriguing story of redemption and transformation that shines a spotlight on the realms of fandom, fame, and the surreal experience of being immortalized as a cult icon.

The documentary opens with an overview of Jones' early life and his meteoric rise to fame after being cast as Flash Gordon. Here, we learn about the young and charismatic actor getting his big break seemingly overnight. However, the documentary doesn't shy away from the trials and tribulations that came along his way. It delves into the difficulties he faced due to the controversial production of the Flash Gordon film, his fall from Hollywood grace, and his subsequent disappearance from the limelight.

The most compelling part of this feature is perhaps its exploration of how Jones rebuilt his life following the challenging times. He candidly shares about his ventures outside of acting, his life outside Hollywood, and how he embraced his role as a cultural icon to carve out a unique niche in popular culture. His resilience, perseverance, and humility add an inspirational dimension to the narrative, making it not just a study of a fallen star, but also a testament to personal evolution and resilience.

Life After Flash also brings in some of Flash Gordon's co-stars and other significant figures from the world of popular culture to share their insights and memories. Among them are Melody Anderson, who portrayed Dale Arden in the 1980 film, and Brian Blessed, the actor who played Prince Vultan. Another amazing addition to the mix is Flash Gordon super fan, Brian May, the world-renown guitarist of the rock band Queen who wrote much of the iconic Flash Gordon film score. The diverse perspectives contribute to a detailed and multifaceted portrayal of Jones as a person and the enduring cult status of Flash Gordon.

The documentary is not only a tribute to the classic movie, but also an examination of its undeniably enduring influence on the world of science fiction and popular culture. It provides a captivating look into not only Jones' life and career, but also the comic strip origins of Flash Gordon, the process of adapting it into a feature film, and the surprising ways in which the character continues to resonate in the collective cultural memory. With its blend of interviews, never-before-seen footage, and insightful commentary, Life After Flash paints an affectionate portrait of a beloved superhero and his equally super predecessor.

The film punctuates its narrative with humorous anecdotal asides and amusing celebrity interactions at the fan conventions Jones now frequents, perfectly capturing the unique place he holds in the hearts and minds of the fans. Running through it all is the personal journey of Jones: his career ups and downs, his shift away from acting into other work, and his ultimate reconciliation with his Flash Gordon legacy.

As it unfolds, Life After Flash paints a surprisingly moving portrait of a man who has had to grapple with the mixed blessings of instant fame and subsequent obscurity, demonstrating a warm and sincere appreciation for its subject. Above all, the documentary stands as a celebration of the enduring appeal of Flash Gordon and the man who brought him to life so unmistakably on the big screen.

In conclusion, Life After Flash is a rich, finely crafted documentary capturing the saga of an actor and an iconic film. It's an absorbing deep dive into the world of cult classic cinema, replete with behind-the-scenes anecdotes, introspective reflections and odes to the fandom. It’s a recommended watch for fans of Flash Gordon, lovers of the science fiction genre, and anyone with an interest in unique, personal stories from the world of Hollywood.