The Green Mile (1999), Director: Frank Darabont, rated R for language, violence

Paul Edgecomb didn't believe in miracles. Until the day he met one.

Film ClipStarring: Tom Hanks, David Morse, Bonnie Hunt, Michael Clarke Duncan, James Cromwell, Michael Jeter, Graham Greene, Doug Hutchison, Sam Rockwell, Barry Pepper, Jeffrey DeMunn, Patricia Clarkson, Harry Dean Stanton, Eve Brent

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"I want it over and done. I do. I'm tired, boss. Tired of bein' on the road, lonely as a sparrow in the rain. Tired of not ever having me a buddy to be with, or tell me where we's coming from or going to, or why. Mostly I'm tired of people being ugly to each other. I'm tired of all the pain I feel and hear in the world everyday. There's too much of it. It's like pieces of glass in my head all the time." - John Coffey

Why watch this? Death row. A perfect place for the unusual to occur.

Plot Summary: In Depression-era Louisiana, a death row prison guard encounters a seemingly gentle giant inmate accused of a horrific crime. This inmate, John Coffey, possesses a mysterious and powerful gift, leading the guard and his colleagues to question his guilt and the nature of justice. The story unfolds through their interactions, revealing supernatural events and exploring themes of compassion and redemption.

Dad's Preview: With many Stephen King books, that eventually makes it to the screen, there is some initial trepidation, as if a horror novelist cannot possibly craft deep stories that are complex and metaphorical. But the simple fact is that Mr. King is a great writer - Period. This prison fantasy drama is an allegorical masterpiece. In even the worst place on earth, a death row ward, there can be small miracles... maybe that is the best place for miracles. The cast is stellar, and I must conclude by recognizing Michael Clarke Duncan - his performance is unforgettable, as John Coffey, a mountain of a man with the heart, and eternal pains, of an angel. 


Castle Rock Entertainment, Darkwoods Productions; Warner Bros.

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