Watch Studio One: The Defender

Studio One is an anthology series that was broadcasted on CBS Television Network for over a decade from the mid-1940s to the mid-1950s. The show was famous for airing plays that covered various genres such as drama, comedy, mystery, and even science fiction. One of the most critically acclaimed episodes from Studio One was The Defender, which premiered on May 18, 1954.

The Defender tells the story of a struggling lawyer named Lawrence Preston (played by Ralph Bellamy) who is hired to defend a young man named Arthur Adamson (played by William Shatner) accused of murder. The episode is a courtroom drama and was groundbreaking in its depiction of the legal system. The story was written by Reginald Rose, who later went on to write the classic film 12 Angry Men.

The episode begins with Preston being approached by Adamson's father, who asks him to defend his son. Although Preston is reluctant to take on the case, he ultimately agrees after realizing that this is his chance to prove himself as a competent lawyer. As the story unfolds, viewers see the hardships Preston faces while working on the case. The police and prosecution are convinced of Adamson's guilt, and the media has already found him guilty in the court of public opinion.

The Defender is a quintessential example of television's 'golden age.' The episode's plot is well-crafted, and the dialogue is sharp and poignant. The story is supported by exceptional acting, with Ralph Bellamy delivering a powerful performance as a lawyer who is determined to give his best, even when the odds are against him. The viewer can feel the tension and challenges Preston faces as he takes on Adamson's case.

Throughout the episode, viewers are shown how the legal system works, with the judge, prosecutor, and defense counsel playing their respective roles. The Defender took a unique approach to showing the reality of a criminal trial, and its influence is still felt in courtroom dramas today. The episode is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on society.

The Defender is also notable for featuring William Shatner in one of his earliest roles. Shatner's performance as the accused Arthur Adamson is impressive, and he holds his own against the seasoned cast. The Defender gave Shatner national exposure, and he would later go on to become a pop culture icon as Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek.

In terms of production values, The Defender is a masterpiece. The episode was shot live, which added an extra level of excitement and tension for both the cast and crew. The sets and costumes are authentic and add to the realism of the drama. The black and white cinematography adds a sense of gravitas to the story.

In conclusion, The Defender is a powerful episode from the Studio One anthology series that is still regarded as a landmark in television history. Its impact can be felt in every courtroom drama that followed. The episode's strength lies in its ability to tell a compelling story while also tackling themes such as the legal system, the media's role in shaping public opinion, and societal prejudices. The Defender is a must-watch for anyone interested in television history, drama, and storytelling at its finest.