Directed by Werner Herzog
Tell me about the squirrels so begins Werner Herzogs latest documentary Into The Abyss as he speaks to a prison chaplain about inmates on death row, giving the audience a look at his often quirky line of expansive questioning. Its a sort of bewildering trademark moment of sheer curiosity from the acclaimed director.
tells the sordid tale of a triple homicide, examining the human psyche to ask why people kill and why capital punishment exists. Conroe, Texas is the setting where, in 2001, Sandra Stotler, her son Adam and his friend Jeremy Richardson were murdered because the killers apparently wanted the red Camaro parked in the Stotler garage.After having the car in their possession for less than 72 hours, two teens were arrested, tried and convicted. Jason Burkett got a life sentence while Michael Perry was sentenced to death.
Fast forward nine years later: Herzog speaks with Perry, eight days before his lethal injection, and Burkett, who isnt eligible for parole until 2041.Several others appear on camera, including Perrys father who is currently serving a life sentence, and family members of the victims.
The film isnt as imaginative or spellbinding as many of Herzogs movies but its raw emotions offer some captivating results. Featuring a subtle yet ominous musical score, coupled with truly powerful insights, Into The Abyss offers a rare glimpse inside the darkest depths of the human soul that few directors can ever hope to accomplish.
