Pierrepoint: The Last Hangman (2005)

7/10

Mesmerising and dark film that looks closer at capital punishment. Not for everyone

Pierrepoint is a film about the life and times of Albert Pierrepoint - Britain's most prolific hangman.


Capital punished was abolished in UK in 1964 before this date one of the prolific hangman was Pierrepoint. This film takes us through different points in his life focusing on his profession.

The cinematography in this film is done to not shy away from very realistic portrayal of executions based on true events and for this I don't recommend this film for the weak hearted. Scenes in this film can be explicit and can make you cringe. Even though there's not guts or gore, this movie can still make you feel uncomfortable but not revolted.

The colour does give this film an interesting appeal that supports the theme of the movie, which is very cleverly editted. The colour treatment given to this film is very dull and desaturdated emphasizing the theme of death and punishment.
Timothy Spall gives such an incredibly bold performance as Pierrepoint, carrying the film and the emotions so powerfully.

This film really revolves around on how Pierrepoint can be seen as both a hero and a villain in his possession. Bringing up many themes and ideologies that should be thought about.

I really recommend people to take a look at this film, but I do warn people about the explicit scenes of the film. I also suggest people to read up a bit on Albert Pierrepoint before proceeding to watch the film for a better understanding of the film.