The Third Degree (1926): cast, story & where to watch
1926 · Film

Released in 1926, The Third Degree is a romance film directed by Michael Curtiz, running about 80 minutes.
What it’s about. Alicia, a circus artist, deserts her husband and child to elope with Underwood, her handsome lover. Fifteen years later, Annie Martin, Alicia's deserted daughter, is a trapeze performer in a sideshow at Coney Island, operated by Mr. and Mrs. Chubb, and has married Howard Jeffries in spite of opposition by his wealthy parents. Jeffries, Sr., hires a man (Underwood) to separate the young couple. Underwood convinces the newlyweds that each is being unfaithful to the other, and consequently, he is threatened by Howard. Driven to fury by Underwood's uncontrollable demands, Alicia shoots him in a quarrel and makes her escape just as Howard enters; despite his innocence, Howard confesses to the crime when subjected to the third degree. Annie, realizing her mother's guilt, claims to be guilty, but Alicia then confesses. Annie is saved from suicide by Howard, and they are united by love.
Who’s in it. The Third Degree stars Dolores Costello as Annie Daly, Louise Dresser as Alicia Daly, Rockliffe Fellowes as Underwood and Jason Robards Sr. as Howard Jeffries Jr., among others.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Third Degree page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Third Degree tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Your Name., Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Cinema Paradiso.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Third Degree (1926)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Third Degree change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Who stars in The Third Degree?
- The Third Degree stars Dolores Costello, Louise Dresser, Rockliffe Fellowes, Jason Robards Sr. and Kate Price.
- When was The Third Degree released?
- The Third Degree was released in 1926, with a runtime of about 80 minutes.
