Poison, the legendary glam metal band from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, is getting the Netflix spotlight with a brand-new documentary film set for release on December 5. The streaming giant confirmed that this highly anticipated movie will dive deep into the band’s rise from small-town dreamers to arena rock icons. Fans and music lovers alike can now look forward to reliving the electric moments that made Poison one of the most influential rock bands of the 80s and 90s.
Formed in 1983, Poison became a household name with their wild style, catchy hooks, and raw energy. Their frontman, Bret Michaels, quickly became a symbol of glam metal, with his unmistakable voice and onstage charisma. Alongside him were guitarist C.C. DeVille, bassist Bobby Dall, and drummer Rikki Rockett—each contributing to the band’s unique sound and enduring legacy. Over the decades, Poison has sold over 50 million records worldwide and remains a beloved name in rock history.
The documentary, titled “Talk Dirty to Me: The Poison Story”, is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Alison Ellwood, known for her work on music documentaries like “History of the Eagles” and “Laurel Canyon.” With her proven ability to blend archival footage, personal interviews, and historical context, Ellwood aims to capture the true essence of Poison’s journey—from their scrappy beginnings to global stardom and everything in between.
The production is being handled by Netflix Originals in collaboration with Gunpowder & Sky, with executive producers Bret Michaels, Heather Parry, and Van Toffler. Filming took place across multiple locations including Los Angeles, Nashville, and their hometown of Mechanicsburg. The team dug deep into Poison’s archives, unearthing rare backstage footage, home videos, and intimate moments that fans have never seen before.
Aside from the personal stories, the documentary will also revisit the band’s biggest hits and the stories behind them. Featured tracks include “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” “Nothin’ but a Good Time,” “Talk Dirty to Me,” “Fallen Angel,” and “Something to Believe In.” Each song will be accompanied by anecdotes from the band and commentary from music critics and other rock legends who witnessed Poison’s rise firsthand.
One of the most touching parts of the documentary highlights the creation and success of “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 in late 1988 and stayed there until early 1989. The song, written by Michaels, reflected a personal heartbreak and proved that glam metal bands could deliver emotional ballads that resonated across genres. It became an anthem of the era and is still beloved today.
The film also doesn’t shy away from the band’s struggles—addiction, internal feuds, the evolving music scene, and the challenge of staying relevant in the grunge-dominated 90s. But through it all, Poison endured, fueled by their bond and their passion for making music. The documentary promises an honest and inspiring look at how they navigated fame and personal challenges.
Fans can expect guest appearances and interviews with other rock legends like Slash, Nikki Sixx, and Dee Snider, who share their insights on Poison’s impact on the glam metal scene. There will also be personal reflections from family members and close friends who witnessed the highs and lows of the band’s journey.
“Talk Dirty to Me: The Poison Story” is more than just a music documentary—it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the power of staying true to your roots. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the band’s music, this Netflix release is set to be a thrilling ride through one of rock’s most colorful and enduring stories. Mark your calendar for December 5—it’s time to relive the wild ride of Poison.
