The Green Mile (1999)
A supernatural tale set on death row in a Southern prison, where gentle giant John Coffey possesses the mysterious power to heal people's ailments. When the cell block's head guard, Paul Edgecomb, recognizes Coffey's miraculous gift, he tries desperately to help stave off the condemned man's execution.
Details
Budget
$60,000,000
Rating
9/10 (17908 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Castle Rock Entertainment, Darkwoods Productions
About The Green Mile
Set in a Depression-era Southern prison, "The Green Mile" blends fantasy, drama, and crime elements. It centers on Paul Edgecomb, a death row supervisor, and John Coffey, a physically imposing but gentle inmate with supernatural healing abilities. The narrative explores themes of justice, morality, and the human capacity for compassion in a harsh environment.
The film's long runtime supports a slow pace, allowing for character development and the exploration of its various subgenres. The story's blend of prison drama with magic realism creates a distinct tone, differentiating it from typical tales set in correctional facilities. The movie's atmosphere and the interactions between the guards and inmates, particularly Coffey, drive the plot forward.
Why you might be searching for The Green Mile
People often search for "The Green Mile" due to its memorable character John Coffey, the supernatural healing element on death row, and Tom Hanks' role as a compassionate prison guard.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer describes the film as a masterpiece, noting its blend of prison flick, supernatural mystery, and drama, adapted from a Stephen King novel.
Read the full reviewA review highlights the dynamic between the decent head guard played by Tom Hanks and the abusive prison officer, Percy, particularly in their interactions with the inmate Coffey.
Read the full reviewA reviewer found the story, with its focus on "fake miracles" and empathetic prison guards, not to their taste, preferring more traditional fantasy.
Read the full reviewOne critique points out the film's significant length, suggesting that while powerful and moving, it can test the viewer's patience.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "The Green Mile" for free with ads on Tubi TV. It is also available to rent or buy on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home. For those who prefer physical media, the movie can be purchased on DVD or Blu-ray.
No, "The Green Mile" is not based on a true story. It is a 1999 American fantasy drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont, based on the 1996 novel by Stephen King.
At the end of "The Green Mile," Paul Edgecomb, now 108 years old, recounts John Coffey's story to his friend Elaine. He reveals that after John's execution, he and Brutus transferred to juvenile corrections. Paul also shares that Mr. Jingles, Del's mouse, is still alive due to John's powers. Paul views his own extended life, and the mouse's, as a divine punishment for allowing John, an innocent man with miraculous healing abilities, to die, lamenting the long years he has lived after outliving all his loved ones.
Yes, "The Green Mile" is generally considered worth watching, receiving positive reviews from critics. It has an approval rating of 78% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising Frank Darabont's direction and writing, emotional weight, and strong performances from Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan. Some critics noted its length but found it to be an absorbing and emotionally powerful experience.