The Accused, a courtroom drama

Jonathan Kaplan's scathing 1988 courtroom drama The Accused remains one of the most insightful and necessary films about sexual violence and victim-blaming.

Jodie Foster steps into the shoes of Sarah Tobias, gang-raped in a bar as patrons cheer her on.

Her aftermath is heartbreaking: she struggles against a legal system desperate to reduce her trauma to a "morality issue".

Foster's raw intensity sustains a film that neither shrinks from horror nor compromises its message. Kelly McGillis is magnificent as the lawyer who brings the truth to light against the prejudice and apathy of a small town.

Kaplan shoots with a claustrophobic realism that immerses us in Sarah's nightmare. We experience her denigration by authorities determined not to see beyond superficial appearances.

Justice is not black and white when society judges the victim, not the crime.

A historical work of deep courage and fury, The Accused confronts the true cost of sexual violence with searing authenticity.

Foster and Kaplan's efforts ensured the dignity of survivors and galvanised social change. A film for the ages.

Jodie Foster won a well-deserved Best Actress Oscar for her unflinching performance.

Kelly McGillis was also nominated for an Oscar for her great supporting performance.

The film grossed $31 million at the box office on a budget of $15 million, making its compelling message resonate with audiences.