Ruth Bader Ginsburg is one of the most important figures in both feminism and law. So a film adaptation of her story was inevitable. And while On the Basis of Sex is by-the-numbers, a contrast to such a radical thinker, it still works. With a solid lead performance and an important subject matter, it’s serviceable, even if RBG deserves more.

The most important element to get right is a strong lead performance, and it does deliver. Felicity Jones definitely brings much of the same spark and confidence as the real-life figure. Some of the best moments are Ginsburg launching into speeches. Jones sells and commands these scenes, both in the film’s context and the audience watching. Armie Hammer as the supportive husband also brings a likable presence whenever on screen. The rest of the supporting cast aren’t especially memorable. Justin Theroux as an ACLU member with internalized sexism is the closest to a stand-out. But this is Jones’ movie first and foremost.

Director Mimi Leder also delivers. At a brisk 2 hours, she’s able to bring plenty of intensity to the court cases and even within Ginsburg’s living room. One strong story element is Ginsburg’s daughter, played by Cailee Spaeny. Both her and her mom often find themselves in debate over different waves and generations of feminism and activism. Leder uses these scenes to deliver plenty of good conversation about these topics and how they’ve evolved.

The real drawback here is the screenplay. Written by the real-life Ginsburg’s nephew, Daniel Stiepelman, the story is very safe and basic. It isn’t a rundown of her entire career, but the first case that made her famous. That is helpful, making the movie more focused. But apart from some interesting discussion about misogyny and modern feminism, the film just goes through the motions. There’s little time exploring Ginsburg and her character, and while the antagonists, played by Sam Waterston and Stephen Root, are indicative of the time period, they’re still one-dimensional. The themes are there, but there could have been so much more to explore the systemic issues women faced and still face today.

But while it doesn’t re-write the handbook, On the Basis of Sex still works. It’s a decent re-telling of a great figure’s life and brings up a lot of decent ideas to chew on after the movie. Also helps that Felicity Jones brings the right gravitas and command to her character. It also manages to be topical, while still timeless. A solid retelling of a wonderful woman.