While she’s known as the greatest, the one Meryl Streep performance that towers above all is one that people have largely forgotten about, save for those who might remember a specific Seinfeld episode. As Lindy Chamberlain in A Cry in the Dark, she brings a terrible story of tragedy and injustice to life. Lindy’s young baby was mauled by an animal (yes, a dingo) and while she and her family mourned, she was also arrested, brought to trial, and wrongfully sentenced for the (non-)crime.

What makes the performance a marvel is Streep’s portrayal of Chamberlain’s stoicism: she’s tough and plays against sympathy. There’s no telegraphing of “love me” or “believe me;” it’s that behavior that would convict Chamberlain (again, wrongfully) in the court of public opinion. It’s that rare performance that pushes those who watch away; you have to look deeper to find and believe the truth. It’s a marvel.

Chamberlain was eventually released, after considerable damage was done. As her husband, played so wonderfully by Sam Neill, says “Innocence is very important to innocent people.”

This article is part of a special year-long series of anecdotes, reflections and thoughts about the Academy Awards.