Mr. Death: The Rise and Fall of Fred A. Leuchter, Jr. (1999)

Mr. Death: The Rise and Fall of Fred A. Leuchter, Jr. is a compelling 1999 American documentary film directed by Errol Morris. The film delves into the life and career of Fred A. Leuchter, Jr., an execution technician with a controversial background.

Leuchter’s journey begins with his upbringing, where his father worked as a corrections officer. His family connections allowed him to witness an execution in an electric chair, which left a lasting impression. Leuchter believed that the electric chairs used in American prisons were unsafe and ineffective, leading him to design modifications that several states adopted.

Despite having no formal qualifications, Leuchter was sought out by various state prisons for advice on execution methods beyond electrocution. He expanded his expertise to gas chambers, hanging, and lethal injection. His fall from grace came when he was asked to investigate Auschwitz by Holocaust revisionist Ernst Zündel. Leuchter’s examination led him to doubt the existence of gas chambers at the camp.

The film weaves together diverse viewpoints, exploring Leuchter’s motivations, ignorance, self-deception, and vanity. Through interviews, archival footage, and Leuchter’s own words, it sheds light on a complex figure whose career took unexpected turns. Mr. Death raises thought-provoking questions about ethics, expertise, and the impact of personal beliefs on professional decisions.