‘Excellent’ Biopic Hailed as ‘Essential Viewing’ Is Streaming on BBC iPlayer

Felicity Jones stars in the acclaimed period drama telling the remarkable story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Felicity Jones leads the cast for the 2018 period drama (Image: Focus Features)

A biographical drama about one of the most influential figures in American legal history is currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

On the Basis of Sex, starring Oscar nominee Felicity Jones, follows the extraordinary life and career of the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her fight against gender discrimination.

The 2018 period drama, directed by Mimi Leder, focuses on the challenges Ginsburg faced as a young lawyer at a time when women continued to encounter significant barriers within the legal profession.

The case that could change the law

The film follows Ruth as she attempts to establish herself professionally while confronting discrimination because of her gender.

A turning point comes when she takes on a groundbreaking case alongside her husband and fellow lawyer, Martin. Ruth realises that the case could have far-reaching consequences for the way courts approach discrimination based on sex.

Alongside its central legal story, the film examines broader issues surrounding gender inequality and the development of feminist movements.

Felicity Jones takes the lead role, with Armie Hammer portraying Martin Ginsburg, Ruth’s husband and a tax attorney. Hammer is known for his performances in films including The Social Network and Call Me by Your Name.

Critics were divided, but audiences responded warmly

The film tells Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s story (Image: Getty)

Despite the strength of its subject and cast, On the Basis of Sex received a more mixed critical response.

The film currently holds a 72% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The critics’ consensus praised its inspirational qualities and performances, while suggesting that the film itself was not as groundbreaking as the real-life achievements of its central figure.

Several critics singled out Jones and Hammer for praise but felt the story followed a relatively familiar biopic formula.

Audience reactions, however, were considerably more enthusiastic.

One Rotten Tomatoes viewer described the subject matter and acting as excellent, while acknowledging that some of the directing choices were less successful. Despite those reservations, they called it a must-see story about a real-life hero.

Another viewer said the film left them “cheering and crying” while offering insight into the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s and highlighting how some of the issues explored in the story remain relevant today.

Other viewers were similarly positive. One described it as one of the most enjoyable films they had seen in a long time, while another called it one of the most inspiring movies they had watched, praising the performances and describing the story as “beautifully heart-breaking.”

For audiences interested in historical dramas, legal stories or biographical films, the movie offers a cinematic look at the experiences that helped shape Ginsburg’s remarkable career.

On the Basis of Sex is streaming now on BBC iPlayer.