But the subtext of the film is seen as a critique of the US jury system amid a climate of suspicion during the anti-communist purges of the “McCarthy era”. It features an ensemble cast including Hollywood legend Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Ed Begley, E. G. Marshall, and Jack Warden. It was directed by legendary Hollywood filmmaker Sidney Lumet, and adapted by Reginald Rose from his teleplay Twelve Angry Men.

The film was nominated for three Acamedy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay. A TV film based on the movie and directed by William Friedkin was released in 1997.

Collider described 12 Angry Men as the “best American film of all time”, and fans have flocked to Rotten Tomatoes to heap praise upon the fim.

One wrote: “Every moment feels strong, important and continuous and you feel like you’re sitting in the room with the jurors.

“The lack of non-diegetic sound lets you feel part of the film and the minimal camera cuts support the same feeling. The cinematography only builds this into the masterpiece it is.”

Another wrote: “This film has permanently changed my perspective on cinema. A masterpiece on every level.”

A third said: “The ensemble cast gives each juror a distinct presence, which makes their shifting arguments feel organic as the pressure rises.

“Even the more theatrical moments fit the film’s origins and era. With its sharp writing and its timeless look at bias and justice, the film still feels urgent and relevant today.”

A fourth added: “Tightly shot and beautifully acted, 12 Angry men stands both as a landmark technical achievement in dramatic filmmaking and a testament to the power of a successful ensemble piece.”

The film has a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer, reflecting the percentage of approved critics who have given it a positive review.

It also has a superb 97% score among general audiences, based on more than 20,000 ratings.

12 Angry Men is available to stream on Amazon Prime with a MGM+ subscription. It’s also available to rent or buy on various platforms, including Apple TV, YouTube, and Sky Store.