Clemency Review: A Dark Look at Today's Death Row System

Although quite difficult to stomach at times, Chinonye Chukwu’s Clemency is one hell of a film, with powerhouse performances that will undoubtedly bring you to your knees. Dark and desperate, yet hopeful and inspiring, Clemency tells the story of Warden Bernardine Williams (Alfre Woodard) as she goes through the emotional turmoil of running death row for years, as Anthony Woods (Aldis Hodge), faces the death penalty. As the film progresses, we see how her position begins to take a toll on her personal life and sanity. 

The role of Bernadine Williams is one that is so powerful, only a woman of Alfre Woodard’s energy could bring truth to. With Oscar worthy performances from all characters, Clemency immediately grabs the audience with such passion and ferocity, refusing to let go until the final frames. Seldom do we see a film with such guts, a film that pulls no punches, yet leaves you feeling like you’ve had the wind knocked out of you for the past two hours. With that being said, this is not your Sunday afternoon, feel good film. Be prepared to feel a slight pit in your stomach throughout the film, as the subject matter itself is quite dark, the performances however bring an entirely new level of reality and humanity to the roles. This being Chukwu’s second feature film to direct, she has thankfully missed the “Sophomore Slump” period of her career. Clemency, could in fact, be the film that brings her to the forefront for the next generation of filmmakers. 

The only critique seems to be the occasional recurring themes of Bernadine’s alcohol use and rocky marriage. Though justified considering her line of work and current situation, the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism set against her failing marriage can come across as tired at times. With this in mind, Clemency still has the potential to be a main Oscar Contender this season. Chinonye Chukwu’s prison drama, Clemency, hits theaters December 27th, 2019. 

WATCH THE TRAILER BELOW

This review would not be possible without the help of the 2019 AFI Film Festival presented by Audi. 

OVERALL: 41/50 (82%)

CINEMATOGRAPHY: 7/10

ACTING: 10/10

DIRECTION: 9/10

SET DESIGN: 8/10

EDITING: 7/10

CAST

ALFRE WOODARD - WARDEN BERNADINE WILLIAMS

WENDELL PIERCE - JONATHAN WILLIAMS

ALDIS HODGE - ANTHONY WOODS

RICHARD SCHIFF - MARTY LUMETTA