While The Caine Mutiny is a showcase for its actors, it doesn’t put much else on display.

It makes for a classic courtroom thriller, and comes with a zinger at the end.

Taking a cue from the ’54 version, Friedkin films it simple, with long close-ups and stoic, pitying reaction shots. He knows when to leave something alone and let Sutherland take the wheel. He recognizes great acting when he sees it.

The success of a rock-solid narrative carried out by a host of high-performing actors coupled with a simplistic set and production design reminds audiences that there are wonderful films out there that don’t rely on massive budgets.