Johnny Flynton

Johnny Flynton is a 2002 American short film directed and co-written by Lexi Alexander. Johnny Flynton is good at one thing: boxing. He's not too bright, and there's clearly some issues in his past, but what's worse, when he's boxing, his temper flares up. His wife, Samantha, tells him she's pregnant. Meanwhile, he's got an exhibition match with local boy Artie Duane. Johnny lets him get a few punches in to look good, but when Artie starts taking cheap shots, Johnny can't stand by and overreacts. He runs home, where he's in high spirits, but that proves his downfall. The film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film.

Directed by Lexi Alexander, Johnny Flynton leans on a strong ensemble — Dash Mihok, Michele Matheson, James Beck — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2002.