Summary - Really Great 4.5

Prison guards working on death row have to prepare for the upcoming execution of an inmate who has been convicted of the brutal slaying and rape of two little girls. The Green Mile, as the death row is known in this film, sees a variety of characters inhabit its cells, and patrols its hall. This movie goes beyond the complex debate of capital punishment, and delves into race relations, guilt, forgiveness, evil, and kindness, the ability to faith heal those who are hurting, without become too preachy.

Tom Hanks delivers a fine performance as the lead guard, charged with no only keeping law and order on the Green Mile, but making sure execution plans are followed correctly. In the midst of all of these, he also assumes the role of protector, advocate, and counselor for many of the inmates. Michael Clarke Duncan does a wonderful job of portraying John Coffey, a man accused of child murder, and rape, who is physically intimidating, yet is also gentle and kind. His sheer physical size makes others fear him, but his unique “gift” makes him even more mysterious.

We develop affection for some of the prisoners, and hatred for others. We see compassion from many of the guards, and contempt for one who abuses his power. In addition, all along is the constant reminded that each of them knows what waits at the end of the hall.

Watched on DVD.

Acting - Perfect 5.0

Great performances help convey the story.

Film - Great 4.0

Nicely filmed, especilly in the Mile, which gives you the feeling of isolation, and confinement. We feel a million miles form the outside world, in a cold, and antiquated hallway, awaiting the final days.

The only negative I had about the filmaking was some periods of uneven pacing. At times it was a bit slow.

Edge - Risqué 2.5

Some violence, and language.

Vivid images of an execution, along with some beatings. It's prison.

Reality - Glib 1.5

3 Comments

• Wick Mar 3, 2011 10:13PM

  Regarding BigdaddyDave’s Review
  I haven’t seen Green Mile, so can’t make an informed comparison. That said, I gave Shawshank a Perfect, so it could do no worse than tie.

• BigdaddyDave Feb 26, 2011 10:18PM

  Wow, great question! I’d have to give the edge to Shawshank, based only on the mystical faith healing portion of Green Mile. Certainly they both boast great ensemble casts, includinhg likeable convicts. But in the end, Id have to go Shawshank. How about you?

• Wick Feb 26, 2011 2:46PM

  Regarding BigdaddyDave’s Review
  Solid review BigD. How do you think this compares to The Shawshank Redemption?

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