The People vs. Larry Flynt

In 1953, a young Larry Flynt is discovered peddling moonshine in Kentucky. This marks the beginning of his tumultuous journey in search of success and notoriety.

Fast forward to the early 1970s, Flynt, alongside his brother Jimmy, runs the Hustler Go-Go club in Cincinnati. Despite initial financial struggles, they look for innovative ways to turn around their fortune.

In a bold move, Larry Flynt decides to launch a newsletter featuring nude images of the club's entertainers. This marks the inception of Hustler magazine, which paves the way for his future endeavors.

In 1975, Hustler magazine publishes scandalous photos of former First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis. This risky decision attracts significant attention and boosts the magazine's sales drastically.

While experiencing newfound success, Flynt encounters Althea Leasure, a stripper in one of his clubs. Their romantic relationship blossoms, and Althea becomes a pivotal figure in Flynt's life.

As Flynt's fame climbs, he becomes a target for anti-pornography activists. His provocative statements during public debates challenge societal norms and spur controversy.

In 1975, Flynt faces a court ruling against him in Cincinnati for smut-peddling. Although this setback is disheartening, he is released shortly after due to a legal technicality.

Ruth Carter Stapleton, a devout Christian, reaches out to Flynt, urging him to embrace faith. Her message resonates, prompting Flynt to contemplate the role of religion in his life and work.

By 1978, a tragic shooting during a court session in Georgia leaves Flynt paralyzed from the waist down. This moment marks a significant turning point in his life, leading to despair and addiction.

Following the shooting, Flynt relocates to Beverly Hills, where he grapples with severe depression and substance abuse. Meanwhile, Althea also succumbs to addiction to pain medications.

In 1983, after undergoing back surgery, Flynt experiences a revival of spirit. He returns to reclaim control of Hustler magazine, which had been under the management of Althea and Jimmy.

Flynt finds himself entangled in another legal scandal involving leaked videos tied to the John DeLorean case. His outrageous courtroom antics, including wearing a flag as a diaper, further tarnish his reputation.

During this tumultuous time, Flynt publishes a parody featuring preacher Jerry Falwell, igniting a libel lawsuit. In a surprising twist, he countersues for copyright infringement, setting the stage for a trial.

After the tragic death of Althea in 1987, Flynt turns his energy to appealing the libel case to the Supreme Court. He pushes his attorney Isaacman to fight for justice, despite the overwhelming odds.

In 1988, Flynt achieves a monumental victory as the Supreme Court unanimously overturns the previous verdict against him. However, this success also leaves him grappling with the haunting memories of Althea.