"Condemned" makes a lucid statement regarding social prejudices surrounding mental illness and their impact on criminal justice. The film, through its skillful cinematography and variant pacing, portrays the confining and distorting effects of abuse on a developing personality. Director Aclan Bates clearly has a strong rapport with his actors. The dialogue is a profound distillate, thanks to Aclan and Leslie Bates. The sound editing is powerful, mirroring the psychological entrapment of Issac, the prisoner, well-conceived and deftly executed by Shane Godwin, who ought to receive top billing. Tore Birkedahl as Pierro is very well cast and finds his voice in this role. Other actors give an emotional performance, particularly Nick Roberts as Issac's Father. The only character I found unconvincing was the Priest, played by Phil Hawn, who appears to limit the scope of his interpretation to a stereotype.
Significant topics are often heavy-handed, and "Condemned" could have easily fallen into such a trap. Instead, the material is treated with adroit sensitivity, distinguishing meaning from meaningfulness. I recommend this film, an indication of long and solid careers for many of the talents involved.
Significant topics are often heavy-handed, and "Condemned" could have easily fallen into such a trap. Instead, the material is treated with adroit sensitivity, distinguishing meaning from meaningfulness. I recommend this film, an indication of long and solid careers for many of the talents involved.
