For the Defense
1930, English. Directed by John Cromwell.
Too CLEVER to be STRAIGHT
William Foster is a slick attorney who stays within the law, but specializes in representing crooks and shady characters. He's adept at keeping them out of jail, winning acquittals, and having decisions reversed, thus springing criminals out of prison. He is romantically involved with dancer Irene Manners, who is two-timing him, although she wants to marry him. She kills a man driving while out with her other man, Jack Defoe, who takes the blame. Unfortunately, a ring Foster had just given Irene is found at the crime scene. Foster ends up defending Jack, but when the ring is found, he thinks he is protecting Irene, so pleads guilty to jury tampering.
- Runtime
- 1h 5m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- NR
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Where to watch For the Defense
For the Defense isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can watch it free or rent it or buy it online.
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Cast & crew
Details
- Released
- 19 July 1930
- Country
- United States of America
- Written by
- Jules Furthman, Oliver H.P. Garrett
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News & fan talk
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For the Defense: quick answers
Is For the Defense worth watching?
For the Defense doesn’t have enough ratings for a verdict yet.
How long is For the Defense?
For the Defense runs 65 minutes (1h 5m).
Does For the Defense have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for For the Defense. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
For the Defense parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
For the Defense is rated NR in India. Check the rating guidance before watching with young children.
Which OTT platform is For the Defense on?
For the Defense isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can watch it free or rent it or buy it online. (Checked 10 November 2026.)
What movies are like For the Defense?
If you liked For the Defense, try Fallen Angel, You Only Live Once, Manhattan Melodrama.
Who directed For the Defense?
For the Defense (1930) was directed by John Cromwell and stars William Powell, Kay Francis, Scott Kolk.