Until You Are Dead (1963)

Duration: 57:52:00

Year Published: 1963

Sound: sound

Description: Produced by the Channel 2 Special Projects Division for Houston’s KPRC-TV, this television documentary evaluates justifications for and judgments against capital punishment. KPRC News Director Ray Miller focuses on four primary questions: whether the death penalty is morally right, whether it deters crime, whether it is fairly administered, and whether there is any risk that it will be imposed on an innocent party. He speaks with a myriad of individuals on the subject, including top law enforcement and prison officials, politicians, court reporters, sociologists, religious leaders, journalists, and death row inmates themselves. A recurring concern suggested by some and dismissed by others is the presence of racial discrimination in death penalty sentencing. Miller also explains the process of electrocution, the state’s method of execution at the time. To conclude the documentary, the newsman wonders about the likelihood of Texas abolishing the death penalty in the future. While law enforcement and government officials largely voice their continued support of capital punishment, Miller stresses that decision rests with the public. “What is done to the prisoner the counties consign to the state’s executioner is done not in the name of the court, not in the name of the district attorney, not in the name of the sheriff,” he remarks, “it is done in the name and by the authority of the people of Texas, by your authority and in your name.” Please note, this film describes execution methods and other sensitive matters that may not be suitable for all viewers. Viewer discretion advised.