Dead Man Walking (1995)

Dead Man Walking (Robbins, 1995) is a crime drama that follows the gut-wrenching journey of convicted murderer Matthew Poncelet on death row, whose attempts at being spared result in the formation of a close bond with Sister Helen Prejean, a nun who believes that death is not the answer. The film focuses on the point-of-view of Helen whose religious values allow her to see a different side of Matthew, one that can accept repentance for his sins.

The realistic nature of the film allows the audience to understand and empathise with the positions of both Matthew and Helen, without making them ‘pick a side’. The death penalty is always a difficult subject to explore as most people have their own individual view on whether it is right or wrong, and some may struggle to understand the views that counteract their own. This film gets the balance just right. Matthew is not portrayed as innocent or weak, but instead simply as a human. A human with an upbringing in a sexist and racist culture where women and black people are the scum of the earth. Helen does not dismiss this fact but instead uses it to help her develop an understanding of the reasons Matthew is the person he is and what brought him to the prison cell, fighting for his life. This does not, however make the crime less horrific and the need for a punishment unnecessary, but it questions the need for this form of punishment, one that can be considered so inhumane.

One quote that specifically resonated with me was the line that Matthew states right before the end of the film. He says – “I never had no real love myself. I never loved a woman or anybody else or myself, just never could…Thank you for loving me.” Robbins turns the film on its head and shows the importance of religion in Matthews life. Religion in this sense being Sister Helen Prejean, a calm and collected believer who knows that somewhere inside everyone is compassion. The inclusion of the victims’ families in the film is an important factor as it allows a variety of opinions to be explored.

The final scene is one that will stick with me forever due to its harsh atmosphere. The length of the scene and the small amount of cuts draws the viewers discomfort out for even longer. The audience are positioned in Helen’s shoes, whether they like it or not, which I think is a true demonstration of Robbins’ directing talents. It is important as a director to consider both sides of an argument, especially when the subject matter is one so gritty and sensitive, so that an honest depiction is given. This is also important as the film was adapted from a non-fiction text, therefore the story is one that is real and raw.

After my first watch of the film I felt as though I was left unsatisfied, but now on second watch I feel as though Robbins ended the film the only way it was ever going to. Matthew was never going to convert to religion even if he turned to it on his last few day and he was never going to fall madly in love with Helen even though she gave him hope in his darkest hours. He was always going to accept his fate for whatever that may be through the guidance of Sister Helen and the love of his family. The use of a two-shot that separates Helen and Matthew becomes important, as gradually the 'visible' barriers between them begin to disappear, although in reality they are still there, and they begin to understand each other.

Both Sarandon and Penn are exceptional in their portrayals of two very different characters. Sarandon acts as though she deeply understands the character’s ambitions and thoughts, which is the reason for the connection the audience have with Helen. We are made to understand why she is guiding Matthew, even though he is full of guilt and distrust to the world, she wants him to see people as humans and not ‘animals’. Although many may ask why Helen is helping Matthew, the answer is simple - she wants the word of the Lord to be understood by everyone. Whether that be the strong Catholic prison guard whose motto is “an eye-for-and eye”, or if it be the poor young children that she cares for or most importantly the convicted criminal on death row sentenced for both rape and murder - "every person deserves respect".

I think it is clear to say that Robbins does not stand for the death penalty, however he can understand the need for justice that those have who agree with its use. The film may change people or it may not, but I don’t think that was his aim. I believe his aim was to help audiences understand the power of love through the house that is religion.