Condemned to Death

Synopsis

In the gripping 1932 film Condemned to Death, Arthur Wontner stars as the embattled protagonist who finds himself caught in a web of deceit, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. The story unfolds in a tense atmosphere where a man is wrongfully accused of a crime he did not commit, leading to a race against time as he struggles to clear his name before the noose tightens around his neck. With powerful performances and a tightly woven narrative, the film explores themes of justice, retribution, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. Viewers are taken on an emotional journey that questions the integrity of the legal system and the severity of capital punishment, culminating in a thought-provoking conclusion that resonates with audiences to this day. Wontner’s portrayal of a man pushed to the brink ensures that Condemned to Death remains a haunting examination of guilt, innocence, and fate.

Cast

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  Arthur Wontner

  Sir Charles Wallington

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  Gillian Lind

  Kate Banting

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  Gordon Harker

  Sam Knudge

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  Cyril Raymond

  Jim Wrench

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  Jane Welsh

  Sonia Wallington

• Norah Howard

  Gwen Banting

Reviews

Despite its intriguing premise, Condemned to Death has garnered mixed reviews from critics since its release. On IMDb, it holds a modest rating of 5.0/10, indicating a divided audience response. Critics from The Film Encyclopedia noted that while the film’s storyline is compelling, it is hampered by a 'lack of tight pacing and occasionally stilted dialogue,' which detracts from the urgency of the narrative. However, some users on Rotten Tomatoes have praised Wontner’s performance, saying he brings 'a certain gravitas to the character that elevates the material.' The British Board of Film Classification commended the film for its moral quandaries, stating that it 'successfully confronts the viewer with the complexities of justice.' Yet, other reviews have criticized the film for its dated filmmaking techniques, with Metacritic users rating it lower than expected, arguing that it feels 'more like a product of its time than a timeless classic.' In summary, while the film's thematic elements hold interest, its execution leaves much to be desired. The dichotomy of opinions illustrates that Condemned to Death is a film that may appeal to genre enthusiasts but may fall short for more casual viewers.