The Public Defender Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: The Public Defender
| Movie | The Public Defender |
| Release Year | 1917 |
| Director | Burton L. King |
| Genre | Drama / Crime |
| Runtime | 60 minutes (1h 0m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Public Defender (1917) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a PENDING with a verified audience rating of NR. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Public Defender are led by Frank Keenan . The supporting cast, including Alma Hanlon and Robert Edeson , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
The Public Defender is an upcoming Drama film that has already started generating buzz among fans of the genre. Based on early information about the story and cast, the movie aims to deliver an engaging cinematic experience.
- Highly anticipated Drama release
- Promising premise and concept
- Potential for strong performances from the cast
- Growing audience interest ahead of release
What Doesn't Work
Since The Public Defender has not officially released yet, a full critical evaluation of its storytelling, pacing, and performances is not available.
- Full reviews and ratings pending
- Audience reception yet to be confirmed
- Critical consensus not available until release
Story & Plot Summary: The Public Defender
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1917, The Public Defender is a Drama, Crime film directed by Burton L. King, written by Fred Rath. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Frank Keenan as Robert Murdock.
Ending Explained: The Public Defender
The Public Defender Ending Explained: When bank president Leslie Morrison dips into the till, he seeks to place the blame on bank clerk David Moulton by altering the figures in Moulton's books. Directed by Burton L. King, this 1917 drama film stars Frank Keenan (Robert Murdock), alongside Alma Hanlon as Mary Reed, Robert Edeson as Arthur Nelson, John St. Polis as David Moulton. Rated 0/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Public Defender?
When bank president Leslie Morrison dips into the till, he seeks to place the blame on bank clerk David Moulton by altering the figures in Moulton's books. He lays his plan carefully, but upon leaving the building late one night, Morrison falls into an elevator shaft and is killed. Moulton, the one man known to have been there, is charged with murder and tried by district attorney Robert Murdock. Unable to afford a competent defense, Moulton is convicted and sentenced to die in an electric chair. However, Mary Reed, a stenographer who loves Moulton, appeals as a last resort to the newly elected public defender, Arthur Nelson. Nelson investigates the case and discovers evidence on the very eve of the execution, evidence that will warrant a stay. Rescued from death in the nick of time, Moulton is granted a new trial under the supervision of the public defender and is found innocent.
Burton L. King's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Frank Keenan (Robert Murdock)'s journey. He lays his plan carefully, but upon leaving the building late one night, Morrison falls into an elevator shaft and is killed.
How Does Frank Keenan (Robert Murdock)'s Story End?
- Frank Keenan: Frank Keenan's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Alma Hanlon (Mary Reed): Alma Hanlon's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Robert Edeson (Arthur Nelson): Robert Edeson's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Public Defender Mean?
The ending of The Public Defender brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Frank Keenan's story may not satisfy all audiences.
The Public Defender Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Public Defender Based on a True Story?
Yes, The Public Defender draws from real criminal cases and investigative records. Directed by Burton L. King and starring Frank Keenan, this drama, crime film explores how real events have been adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version of The Public Defender
The film takes creative liberties to strengthen its narrative. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
While inspired by real events, the narrative focuses more on storytelling than strict historical accuracy.
Accuracy Assessment: The Public Defender uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. The film prioritizes thematic storytelling over strict documentary accuracy.
Who Should Watch The Public Defender?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
At just 60 minutes, it's a quick watch.
The Public Defender Parents Guide & Age Rating
1917 AdvisoryWondering about The Public Defender age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Public Defender (1917) is 60 minutes (1h 0m). Directed by Burton L. King, the film runs for 60 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 0.0/10, and global performance metrics, The Public Defender is classified as a Upcoming Analysis. It remains an essential part of the 1917 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Public Defender worth watching?
Our analysis for The Public Defender is currently Pending. We recommend checking the audience response after the opening weekend for a verified "worth watching" recommendation.
Where can I find The Public Defender parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Public Defender identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Public Defender (1917)?
The runtime of The Public Defender (1917) is 60 minutes (approximately 1h 0m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
