Execution Day

Synopsis

Execution Day (original title: Qətl Günü), directed by Hamlet Khanizadeh and released in 1990, is a gripping drama that delves into the moral complexities surrounding justice and capital punishment. Set against a tense backdrop, the film explores the emotional and psychological turmoil experienced by individuals caught in the machinery of legal retribution. Through compelling storytelling and a nuanced portrayal of its characters, Execution Day confronts themes of fate, forgiveness, and the human cost of vengeance. The movie places viewers in the heart of a societal dilemma, raising profound questions that linger long after the credits roll.

Cast

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  Hamlet Khanizadeh

  Patient/ Sadi Afandi/ Poet

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  Eleonora Korisnaitė

  Maya/ Prisoner

• 

  Yashar Nuri

  Mahmud

• 

  Aladdin Abbasov

  Zulfugar

• Ibrahim Aliyev

• Zulfugar Baratzadeh

  Haja Anvar

Reviews

Execution Day has received a range of critical responses, with many praising its thought-provoking subject and strong performances, particularly by Hamlet Khanizadeh. On IMDb, the film holds a respectable rating of 7.2/10, with viewers noting its emotional depth and compelling narrative. Critics from regional film festivals have commended the movie’s unflinching look at capital punishment and the ethical questions it raises, highlighting its contribution to important social debates. However, some reviews point out that the pacing can be uneven, with certain scenes feeling protracted, which may challenge the viewer's engagement. Rotten Tomatoes does not currently list a score for Execution Day, reflecting its limited international exposure despite critical acclaim in its country of origin. Metacritic also lacks aggregated reviews, making it a cult classic that remains largely under the radar. Nevertheless, the film’s direction, screenplay, and dramatic intensity have earned it a dedicated following and positive word-of-mouth, especially among audiences interested in legal and moral dramas.