Watch Manners of Dying

Manners of Dying is a 2004 Canadian film directed by Jeremy Peter Allen and starring Roy Dupuis, Serge Houde, and Tony Robinow. The film is based on the novel by acclaimed Canadian author, Yann Martel. The story follows the last eight days of a man's life, named Braverman (Roy Dupuis). Braverman is a death row inmate who has been sentenced to death for the brutal murder of a young girl. He is set to be executed by way of lethal injection, and the film is a reflection on his final moments.

The movie primarily revolves around the relationship between Braverman and his executioner, known only as The Technician (Serge Houde). The Technician is a cold and calculating man who has conducted hundreds of executions over the course of his career. He is always professional and detached, never allowing himself to become emotionally involved in the process. Braverman is different, however. He is a talkative and philosophical man who is desperate to connect with someone before his time is up.

Over the course of the film, Braverman tells The Technician a series of stories, each one a reflection on life, death, and morality. Through these stories, we begin to understand the events that led to Braverman's incarceration, and the guilt that he harbors over his crimes.

At the same time, we begin to see cracks in The Technician's stoic demeanor. He begins to question the morality of his job, and whether or not it is right to take someone's life, regardless of their crimes. The relationship between the two men is complex and fraught, and the film is a powerful meditation on mortality and the human condition.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way it plays with time. The majority of the movie takes place in the execution chamber, but there are frequent flashbacks to the events that led up to Braverman's incarceration. These flashbacks are often surreal and dreamlike, blurring the line between reality and memory.

The film is a slow burn, relying heavily on philosophical dialogue and character development to carry the story. This may not be to everyone's taste, but those who appreciate this kind of introspective storytelling will find much to enjoy here.

The performances in the film are excellent. Roy Dupuis plays Braverman with a mix of charm and sadness, making him a sympathetic and complex character despite the heinous nature of his crimes. Serge Houde is equally impressive as The Technician, playing him with just the right amount of detachment and curiosity.

Overall, Manners of Dying is a powerful and thought-provoking film that deals with weighty themes in a nuanced and sensitive way. While it may not be for everyone, those who are willing to engage with its slow pace and philosophical musings will find it to be a moving and meaningful experience.