Into the Abyss

The movie is much more specific than the title suggests. Into the Abyss chronicles a particular case in Texas; a crime ten years ago that lead to murder. The criminals confessed, and they’re interviewed along with many other people associated with the case. The friends of the victims and the friends and family of the culprits are all interviewed in a pretty standard “60 Minutes” fashion. Though the movie is skillfully made and definitely sheds light on larger issues about execution, it doesn't make you very sympathetic for the killers or the victims. But there are family members of the victims whose suffering will never end, and even they have their problems with capital punishment. It’s a serious and worthwhile documentary from Werner Herzog, but it could be saved for home video.