Free film: At the Death House Door

Special Preview Screening Party to Watch and Discuss IFC's New Documentary by the makers of Hoops Dreams

A personal and intimate look at the death penalty in the state of Texas through the eyes of Pastor Carroll Pickett, who served 15 years as the death house chaplain to the infamous "Walls" prison unit in Huntsville. During Pickett's remarkable career journey, he presided over 95 executions, including the world’s first lethal injection. After each execution, Pickett recorded an audiotape account of his trip to the death chamber.

The film also focuses on the story of Carlos De Luna, a convict Pickett counseled and whose execution troubled Pickett more than any other. He firmly believed De Luna was innocent, and the film tracks the investigative efforts of a team of Chicago Tribune reporters who have turned up evidence that strongly suggests he was.

(2008, 95 mins.) From award-winning directors Steve James ("Hoop Dreams") and Peter Gilbert ("Vietnam: Long Time Coming"). -More film info-

The film is free and open to the public. Free food will also be provided.

Sponsored by Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty. At the Death House Door premiers on IFC on May 29 at 9:00pm EST.

Community advocates, students, legislators, and religious leaders are meeting at screening events across the country throughout the month of May to converse about these issues as part of IFC's campaign to encourage dialogue.