Anabolic Video
| Company type | Independent |
|---|---|
| Industry | Pornographic film production |
| Founded | 1991 |
| Defunct | 2013 |
| Headquarters | Chatsworth, California , United States |
| Products | Pornographic films (notably gonzo pornography) |
Anabolic Video was an independent American pornographic movie studio located in Chatsworth, California. Recognized as a trailblazer in the field of gonzo pornography, it stood out as one of the most prominent producers within this niche. The studio discontinued its activities in 2013.
History
Established in 1991, Anabolic and its former affiliate Diabolic Video operated out of Venice, California for approximately ten years. Alongside contemporaries such as Ed Powers, Rodney Moore, and John Stagliano's Evil Angel, the company emerged as a dominant force in gonzo porn production. Gregg Alan led the sales division from 1992 for a period of fifteen years.
During the mid-1990s, Anabolic broadened its scope by incorporating Diabolic Video, which was owned by Gregg Alan. The late 1990s and early 2000s marked a peak era when directors including Vince Vouyer, Erik Everhard, John Strong, Jon Dough, and Lexington Steele crafted highly regarded gonzo films. Diabolic was officially launched as an independent label in 1998. Both studios moved their headquarters to Chatsworth in 2001.
A major talent shift occurred following Vouyer’s exit to Red Light District Video in 2002, leading to further departures in 2004 as Everhard, Steele, and Mike John also joined Red Light, while Dough transitioned to Devil's Film, attracted by director ownership opportunities. By 2006, Anabolic had produced more than 300 titles. The partnership between Anabolic and Diabolic ended in May 2007; Diabolic became independently owned by Gregg Alan and Greg Alves. The company ultimately closed down in 2013.
Film series
Among the studio’s most successful franchises are Anabolic Penetration, Balls Deep, Sweet Cheeks, Nasty Nymphos, The Gangbang Girl, Bring'um Young, Initiations, and World Sex Tour.
Actresses
In 1999, Vivian Valentine suffered a black eye during the production of Rough Sex but reported no regrets about the incident. In June 2004, Alexis Amore signed a groundbreaking contract as both actress and director, committing to star in six films per year and direct eight to ten projects annually, becoming Anabolic’s inaugural "contract girl."
Directors
All directors working with Anabolic operate under exclusive agreements. Prominent current and past directors include Ricky D, Ken Dark, Ivan, Robby Digital, Tony T., Sal Genoa, and Vonn Fink.
Distribution deals
In mid-2006, Anabolic expanded its worldwide reach by adding its entire back catalogue to gamelink.com's video-on-demand (VOD) platform as well as to AEBN's VOD service simultaneously. By March 2007, SugarVOD had also integrated Anabolic’s complete library into its offerings. In November 2007, Anabolic secured a distribution agreement covering 65 Paradise Visuals titles, featuring landmark films from the Golden Age of Porn including Christy Canyon's debut and John Holmes’ final appearance.
Lawsuits
In 2002, Anabolic and Diabolic initiated legal action in Los Angeles against several video distributors such as VIP Services Inc. and Lynton Appelson Inc., accusing them of unauthorized duplication and distribution of DVDs. The complaint sought restitution for illicit profits, punitive damages, and legal fees related to copyright infringement involving at least 25 pirated titles sold to retailers.
In 1997, Harley-Davidson filed a federal lawsuit against the company in Milwaukee over scenes in The Gang Bang Girl 20 that showcased its motorcycles and branded memorabilia. The motorcycle manufacturer claimed the film damaged its reputation and falsely suggested Harley-Davidson’s endorsement.
Criticism
Regan Starr, featured in Rough Sex 2, claimed she experienced physical abuse during the shoot, alleging she was struck and choked despite her requests to cease. Director Khan Tusion challenged her version, maintaining that her portrayal of the incident was inaccurate.
Awards
Anabolic films have received several AVN Awards, reflecting their significant impact and acknowledgment within the industry:
- 1995 AVN Award for Best Anal-Themed Release – Butt Banged Bicycle Babes
- 1996 AVN Award for Best Group Sex Scene – Video – World Sex Tour 1
- 1997 AVN Award for Best Gangbang Tape – Gangbang Girl 17
- 1998 AVN Awards for Best Gangbang Tape – Gangbang Girl 19 and Best Anal Sex Scene – Video – Butt Banged Naughty Nurses
- 2000 AVN Award for Best Specialty Release – BDSM – Rough Sex 1
- 2003 AVN Award for Best All-Sex Release – Bring 'Um Young 9
- 2008 AVN Award for Best Ethnic-Themed Release, Asian – Anabolic Asians 5
- 2009 AVN Award for Best Internal Series – Ass Cream Pies
External links
- (archived)
- American pornographic film studios
- Gonzo pornography
- Film production companies of the United States
- Pornography in Los Angeles
- Entertainment companies based in California
- Companies based in Los Angeles
- Chatsworth, Los Angeles
- Entertainment companies established in 1991
- Mass media companies established in 1991
- 1991 establishments in California
- 2013 disestablishments in California
- American companies established in 1991
- American companies disestablished in 2013
- Companies of the United States by year of establishment