Honeybee

American independent filmmaker Melvin James makes his feature debut with the low-budget sports drama Honeybee. Soap opera actress Senait Ashenafi stars as Brianna Dukes, an upper middle-class college student who decides to drop out of school and become a professional boxer despite the fact that she is a complete novice. Her upwardly mobile father Larry Dukes strongly disapproves of her decision. However, Brianna finds support from her trainer Pablo Rodriquez and starts boxing under the name "Honeybee." Eventually she has to prove herself in the big match against her rival, champion lesbian fighter Rhonda "Lady D" Andrews.

Directed by Melvin James, Honeybee leans on a strong ensemble — Senait Ashenafi, James Avery, Chrystale Wilson — 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 drama titles of 2001.