Its time for another review on one of Stephen King’s film adaptations to prepare for the upcoming future adaptations such as The Dark Tower and It. The two films will be released in August and September. If you’ve seen a trailer for The Dark Tower, it has been confirmed that all of King’s works are officially canon. (shared universe)
My third review on King’s many film adaptations, is The Green Mile. The film was directed by Frank Darabont, (The Shawshank Redemption, also developed AMC’s The Walking Dead) the cast features Tom Hanks, the late Michael Clarke Duncan, James Cromwell, Sam Rockwell, and Michael Jeter. By the way, check out my non-spoiler reviews for The Shining and Carrie.
The Green Mile was released in December 1999. The Final month of The 20th Century. It received critical acclaim and made over a quarter billion dollars at the box office.
The film went on to be selected as a potential Best Picture nominee at The 72nd Academy Awards along with other nominations including Best Supporting Actor for Duncan’s portrayal as the gifted giant, John Coffey, and Best Adapted Screenplay by Darabont. However none of them won anything.
This article features no SPOILERS whatsoever. You’re allowed to read this, if you haven’t seen the movie.
Tom Hanks, Michael Clarke Duncan, James Cromwell Sam Rockwell and Michael Jeter all did a fantastic job on their performances.
The chemistry between Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan’s characters, Paul Edgecomb and John Coffey was The Highlight of the film.
The Time Period set in the 1930’s of The Great Depression era, is recreated perfectly.
Similar to The Shawshank Redemption, the depiction of prison is pretty harsh, filled with psychopathic inmates lacking redeeming qualities.
Special Effects were gorgeous and they still hold up pretty well.
Cinematography was flawless.
Tom Hanks is reunited with a cast member from Forrest Gump, in an important cameo appearance.
Themes in this film depicts Death, Empathy, Resurrection, Miracles and Immortality.
If you grew up watching Sesame Street, Michael Jeter, A.K.A. Mr. Noodle, cusses on screen. No wonder he has a filthy mouth when the children aren’t around!
A Brutal Death Scene involving one of the inmates. Won’t tell you who it is.
A Huge Plot Twist that sets the course of the story. You’re gonna have to see it for yourself. It is pretty shocking.
Stephen King’s tropes were used effectively and not depicted in a stupid way.
The Ending. I refuse to reveal the contents about it. It’s gonna make you weap your eyes out, like a bowl of chopped onions right next to you.
Negative: I couldn’t any problems with the movie. Like The Shining, this is another flawless King related adaptation.
The Final Verdict: A for APEX!
I thought the film was decent. I didn’t get bored throughout the duration of the whole picture. I strongly recommend this three hour film if you’re a huge Stephen King fan.
R.I.P. Michael Clarke Duncan. Your role in this movie will never be forgotten.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 