DRAMA ABOUT THE DEMERITS OF DEATH PENALTY
Opinions are polarized on capital punishment. Some say, it is a must for protecting lives in civil society. Other claim it is cruel and basically wrong as a cure for crime. Regardless, the topic is one that will eternally elude unanimity in any debate or discussion. “ ಹಗ್ಗದ ಕೊನೆ ” [‘ Haggada Kone ’, which translates to: ‘ End of (the) Rope ’], a 2014 Kannada film, is an adaptation of a play that renowned playwright, Parvathavani, has penned. The crime drama created waves in critical circles. It received a spate of awards too; and, was screened at numerous international film festivals. The protagonist, Chenna (Naveen Krishna) is convicted of murder; so, he is sentenced to death. His troubled conscience questions and blames his bosom friend (Mohan), father (V Manohar) and teacher (HG Dattatreya) for his pitiable state of woe and misery. In a subconscious reverie though, Chenna meets them tête-à-tête and argues about who is responsible for his actions. The jailor (Suchendra P...