It takes one of the most complex issues of our time (along with Tony Kaye's "Lake of Fire") and treats it with the respect it deserves. It's not a film "of style", who cares? It's a film of people. And to watch Sean Penn do what he does (without being able to use his hands, arms, body, he's shackled most of the movie) is remarkable. It offers no answers, for there are none. Everyone is right & everyone is wrong.
Event though it's very TV movie-ish in its visual aesthetic, Dead Man Walking -- bolstered by an affecting story and two great performances -- never fails to make me cry. And that's saying something because I'm a frigid, emotionally-stunted bitch. The last half hour is well-nigh transcendent.
this is what you'd get when Sarandon and Penn both at top of their game.,an emotional roller coaster that shouldn't be missed !