Is The Defender (Studio One) Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Defender (Studio One) is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 101 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Defender (Studio One) Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1957, The Defender (Studio One) enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on The pilot for the television series, "The Defenders. Under the direction of Robert Mulligan, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Ralph Bellamy, Martin Balsam, Steve McQueen. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, The Defender (Studio One) offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, The Defender (Studio One) is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 7.2/10, the reception has been generally positive. For fans of Drama, TV Movie, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Cast of The Defender (Studio One)
- Ralph Bellamy – Walter Preston
- Martin Balsam – Francis Toohey
- Steve McQueen – Joseph Gordon
- Vivian Nathan – Mrs. Gordon
- William Shatner – Kenneth Preston
Top Highlights
Ralph BellamyWalter Preston
Martin BalsamFrancis Toohey
Steve McQueenJoseph Gordon
Vivian NathanMrs. Gordon
William ShatnerKenneth Preston
Ian WolfeJudge Marsala
David J. StewartDr. Victor Wallach
Russell HardieFirst Guard
Iggie WolfingtonCourt Clerk
Arthur StorchSeymour Miller
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.2/10, and global collection metrics, The Defender (Studio One) stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1957 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Defender (Studio One) movie hit or flop?
The Defender (Studio One) is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.2/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama, TV Movie movies.
Is The Defender (Studio One) worth watching?
Yes, The Defender (Studio One) is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama, TV Movie cinema.
What genre is The Defender (Studio One)?
The Defender (Studio One) is a Drama, TV Movie movie that The pilot for the television series, "The Defenders." The story of Walter and Kenneth Pearson, a father-and-son legal team. Broadcast as two segments ...
