Watch At the Death House Door

At the Death House Door is a gripping and emotional documentary from IFC that tells the true story of Carroll Pickett, a former death house chaplain at the Walls Unit in Huntsville, Texas. The show premiered in 2008 and was directed by Steve James and Peter Gilbert. The documentary follows Pickett as he reflects on his career and speaks out against the death penalty after witnessing over 95 executions.

Narrated by Pickett himself, At the Death House Door begins with him retelling the story of the first execution he witnessed in 1982. He vividly describes the cold, sterile environment of the death chamber and details the final moments of the inmate's life. Pickett explains that this experience transformed him from a supporter of capital punishment to an opponent, and he spent the next 15 years of his career trying to provide comfort and spiritual guidance to death row inmates in their final hours.

The central focus of the documentary is the case of Carlos De Luna, a man who was executed in 1989 for the murder of a gas station attendant. Pickett was the chaplain present at De Luna's execution and the show delves into the details of the case, including the botched police investigation and the evidence that points to De Luna's possible innocence. Pickett admits that he had doubts about De Luna's guilt even at the time of his execution and has since become adamant that he was unjustly put to death.

As we follow Carroll Pickett's story, we also learn about the role of the media in reporting on the death penalty and the flawed justice system that often leads to wrongful convictions. Journalist Maurice Possley joins the documentary to share his research into the De Luna case and the various inconsistencies and errors that suggest a miscarriage of justice. The filmmakers also interview family members of the victim and explore their feelings about the execution, as well as the impact it had on their lives.

At the Death House Door is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that provides a compassionate and insightful look into the complex issues surrounding capital punishment. Through Carroll Pickett's personal story and the examination of the De Luna case, the show raises important questions about the morality and effectiveness of the death penalty. It also sheds light on the emotional impact of state-sanctioned murder, both for the inmates and their loved ones, and highlights the potential for error and injustice within the system.

The show's use of archival footage and photographs, along with interviews with key individuals involved in the case, creates a comprehensive and engaging account of the events surrounding De Luna's execution. The documentary also features a haunting original soundtrack by composer Joshua Abrams, which adds to the overall emotional impact of the story.

At the Death House Door is not an easy watch, but it is a necessary one. By portraying the human and ethical implications of the death penalty, the documentary urges viewers to think deeply about the value of human life and the role of punishment in society. It is a poignant testimony to the illusory nature of the justice system and the enduring power of hope and compassion.