In 2012, acclaimed documentary filmmaker Werner Herzog released a groundbreaking four-part series entitled On Death Row. The series is dedicated to exploring the stories of four individuals currently on death row in the United States, each episode focusing on one specific murder case.
The first of these cases involves Douglas Feldman – a man convicted of murdering a police officer in 1989. The second follows the Texas Seven – a group of inmates who escaped from prison in 2000 and were subsequently charged with numerous counts of murder and robbery.
Hank Skinner is featured in the third episode – he was convicted of murdering three people, including his girlfriend and her two sons, in 1995. Finally, Linda Carty is profiled in the fourth installment – she was found guilty of kidnapping and murdering a woman to steal her four-day-old child in 2001.
Each installment consists of interviews between Herzog and the inmates, as well as conversations with prosecutors, defence lawyers, family members, and other related parties involved in the respective cases. All combined, On Death Row paints a profound picture that sparks debate about the ethical implications surrounding capital punishment.
If you’re looking to learn more about this complex topic or interested in hearing stories from some of those intimately affected by it then On Death Row is an essential watch for anyone seeking an educational experience into this highly controversial debate.
