The Sin Eater (1997 TV Short) User Reviews

A double commentary on English religion and cuisine.

[Buzz Vinard · 9/10 · 24 October 2001]

I got to see this one on Sci-Fi's "Exposure" series. The Sin Eater is a man destined by ancient English religious custom to eat a meal on the coffin of the recently deceased, thereby consuming the sins of the dead and ensuring safe passage to heaven, rather than hell. Soon after the death of Kate's husband, the Sin Eater arrives to consume the dead man's sins, via a plate of really gross-looking English food. Kate is unfamiliar with this custom and meets the Sin Eater privately, convincing him to try consuming the sins of the living, namely her own. He reluctantly agrees and instead of boiled mutton and potatoes, Kate prepares Thai food as the sin transport. The Sin Eater is enchanted both by the delicious food and Kate's "delicious sins". It was a fun story and a well-acted and directed film. I'm sure opportunities to see it will be limited, but it's worth pausing for if you get the chance.