The Executioner's Song (1982): cast, story & where to watch
1982 · Film · ★ 5.9

Released in 1982, The Executioner's Song is a drama, crime and tv movie film directed by Lawrence Schiller, running about 135 minutes. “The story of two people who fell in love.....and kept on falling.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. In this fact-based made-for TV film, Gary Gilmore, an Indiana man who just finished serving a lengthy stay in prison, tries to start anew by moving to Utah. Before long, Gary begins an ill-advised romance with the troubled Nicole Baker, a teenage single mother. As their relationship quickly deteriorates, Gary goes on a murderous rampage, leaving two dead. During his trial, he demands capital punishment; a media circus ensues and outsiders look to profit from his story.
Who’s in it. The Executioner's Song stars Tommy Lee Jones as Gary Mark Gilmore, Christine Lahti as Brenda Nicol, Rosanna Arquette as Nicole Baker and Eli Wallach as Vern Damico, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.9/10, The Executioner's Song has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Executioner's Song page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Executioner's Song tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Executioner's Song (1982)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Executioner's Song change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Executioner's Song worth watching?
- The Executioner's Song holds an audience score of 5.9 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama, crime and tv movie. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Executioner's Song?
- The Executioner's Song stars Tommy Lee Jones, Christine Lahti, Rosanna Arquette, Eli Wallach and Steven Keats.
- When was The Executioner's Song released?
- The Executioner's Song was released in 1982, with a runtime of about 135 minutes.
