The writing and directing are basically flawless and casting is perfect. Jack Nicholson’s performance as Colonel Jessup should be rated as one of the top ten of all time. Sorkin’s ability to create a quick paced witty dialogue throughout the movie is nothing short of legendary. With this screenplay it should have been evident that he was destined for the greatness he accomplished with The West Wing. Despite the fact that most people only remember the climactic final courtroom scene, there are many others of the upmost value. When Kaffee comes home drunk after learning about Markinson’s death, Cruise (as Kaffee) is absolutely amazing. “eeehhhhh! Time’s up! What do we have for the losers, judge? Well, for our defendants, it’s a life time at exotic Fort Leavenworth! And, for defense counsel Kaffee, that’s right, it’s a court martial! Yes, Johnny! After falsely accusing a highly decorated Marine officer of conspiracy and perjury, Lieutenant Kaffee will have a long and prosperous career teaching… typewriter maintenance at the Rocco Globbo School for Women! Thank you for playing “Should we or should we not listen to the advice of the galactically stupid!” AFI should have definitely consdier this for their top quotes list. Nevertheless, there are plenty of other great moments involving Kendrick(played by Keifer Sutherland). Kendrick represents the pure Marine mentality which is the direct opposite of Kaffee’s view on basically everything. The conflicts between characters and ideals permeate the entire film. It gives great insight into military culture and I feel leaves it up to the viewer to decide whether they side with Jessup’s view or not. This movie has everything anybody could want: drama, humor, superb acting, great direction, and an incredible script. If you don’t love this movie, stop going to theaters.