Dead Man Walking (DVD 2001)

Dead Man Walking is an amazing though-provoking film directed by Tim Robbins, based on the book of the same name, which tells the true story of Sister Helen Prejean (Susan Sarandon), who establishes a special relationship with Matthew Poncelet (Sean Penn), a prisoner on death row after being convicted of rape and murder.

Based on her true-story book, the film gives insight into the arguement for and against capital punishment. I first saw it as part of my degree in Criminology as the film examines the issue carefully whilst telling the story of the relationship between the nun and convict. Deservedly the director and actors were nominated for Oscars, Sarandon winning hers, as did Bruce Sprinsteen for his beautiful theme song from the film.

I don't want to go into the story too much for fear of spoiling the plot for those of you who've yet to see it. If you want to see a moving, brilliantly acted film that makes you wonder which side of the fence you should be on, then I highly recommend this.

Susan Sarandon plays a nun who counsels a condemned-to-die convict, played by Sean Penn. I thought Penn was brilliant in his role but it was Sarandon who won the acting Oscar. The movie sets out the pros and cons of the death penalty. A thought provoking movie and made highly watchable by the two leads.

I have been concerned about the death penalty for many years and felt I needed something to help my understanding of the issues involved. I had read about Helen Prejan and her work and thought I would like to watch the film. This film was well acted, and portrayed the issues in an interesting way giving also the views of those who believe in the death penalty.