Incendiary: The Willingham Case

Watch Incendiary: The Willingham Case

"Sometimes the truth goes up in flames"
  • 2011
  • 1 hr 39 min
  • 7.3  (112)

Incendiary: The Willingham Case is a documentary film from 2011 that explores the controversial case of Cameron Todd Willingham, a man who was executed for allegedly setting a fire that killed his three young children in 1991. Directed by Steve Mims and Joe Bailey Jr., the film provides a thorough examination of the evidence and outcomes of the case, as well as the legal and ethical implications of the use of the death penalty.

The film begins by introducing viewers to the Willingham case itself, chronicling the fire that took place in Corsicana, Texas on December 23, 1991. In a large home that had been converted into four separate apartments, a fire broke out in one of the units, killing Willingham's three children who were sleeping inside. Willingham, who had escaped the blaze, was accused of igniting the fire in order to cover up child abuse.

From here, the film delves into the specifics of the case, including the questionable evidence used against Willingham during his trial. Throughout the film, viewers are presented with a number of experts and witnesses who testify to the flaws in the prosecution's argument. For instance, a renowned fire investigator named John Lentini points out the lack of significant burn patterns that would have been present if the fire was intentionally set. Additionally, arson investigators from the Texas State Fire Marshal's Office were criticized for using outdated methods and failing to consider alternative explanations for the fire.

As the film progresses, it also explores the broader implications of the Willingham case. For instance, viewers are presented with troubling statistics about the use of the death penalty in Texas, including the fact that the state executes more prisoners than any other state in the U.S. In addition, the film tackles the question of wrongful convictions, offering examples of other cases in which individuals were exonerated after being wrongly accused of crimes.

Throughout the film, there is a consistent focus on the ethical implications of the use of the death penalty. Numerous legal experts and advocates weigh in on the issue, describing some of the flaws inherent in the justice system, such as implicit biases, lack of access to proper legal representation, and the potential for corrupt practices. The film also shines a light on the emotional toll that executing someone can take on all parties involved, from the inmates' families to the witnesses and jurors involved in the case.

Overall, Incendiary: The Willingham Case is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that raises important questions about the death penalty, the justice system, and the importance of objective decision-making in legal proceedings. The film presents a persuasive case for the idea that Willingham was wrongly accused and executed, and invites viewers to consider the broader implications of this type of miscarriage of justice.

Incendiary: The Willingham Case is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.

Incendiary: The Willingham Case
Description
Where to Watch Incendiary: The Willingham Case
Incendiary: The Willingham Case is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Apple TV. Some platforms allow you to rent Incendiary: The Willingham Case for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2011
  • Runtime
    1 hr 39 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.3  (112)