The Green Mile

Details

Based on Stephen King's acclaimed serialised novel, The Green Mile reunites director Frank Darabont with prison drama following the enormous success of The Shawshank Redemption. Whilst both films share a prison setting and a deeply human story, The Green Mile heads in a far more supernatural direction, blending emotional drama with fantasy and mystery. The title refers to the stretch of faded green linoleum leading to the electric chair - the final walk every condemned prisoner must eventually take.

Set during the Great Depression, Paul Edgecomb oversees Death Row at Cold Mountain Penitentiary alongside a close-knit team of prison officers. Their routine is disrupted by the arrival of John Coffey, a physically imposing inmate convicted of the brutal murder of two young girls. Despite his terrifying appearance, Coffey displays a gentle nature that seems completely at odds with the horrific crimes for which he has been condemned. As Paul spends more time with him, he begins to question whether appearances really can be trusted.

Life on the Green Mile becomes increasingly tense following the arrival of the sadistic William Wharton and the presence of the thoroughly unpleasant Percy Wetmore, whose abuse of both prisoners and fellow officers threatens to push everyone to breaking point. Yet amidst the darkness, Paul witnesses a series of extraordinary events surrounding John Coffey that challenge everything he believes. As whispers of miracles begin to spread through the prison, Paul finds himself wrestling with questions of justice, faith and whether the legal system has made a terrible mistake.

Picture & Sound

The transfer is extremely impressive considering the film's considerable running time. Colours are warm and natural throughout, with the gloomy prison interiors retaining plenty of shadow detail whilst the brighter exterior scenes remain crisp and vibrant. Compression artefacts are kept to a minimum and, despite squeezing such a lengthy feature onto the disc, Warner has produced a consistently pleasing presentation. It's not quite reference quality, but it's certainly a very respectable effort.

This isn't a film that relies upon constant explosions or aggressive surround effects, but the Dolby Digital soundtrack is wonderfully atmospheric. Thomas Newman's haunting musical score fills the room beautifully, dialogue remains crystal clear and the occasional dramatic moments - particularly the electric chair sequences - make excellent use of the surround speakers and LFE channel without ever becoming gimmicky. It's a subtle soundtrack, but an extremely effective one.

Overall

The Green Mile isn't simply another prison drama. It's an emotional character piece that asks difficult questions about justice, compassion and redemption whilst gently weaving supernatural elements into what is otherwise a remarkably grounded story. Clocking in at over three hours it may sound daunting, but thanks to Frank Darabont's measured direction the film rarely feels overlong, with each scene helping to build an emotional connection to both the prisoners and their guards.

Tom Hanks is excellent as Paul Edgecomb, but the real revelation is Michael Clarke Duncan. Bringing warmth, innocence and quiet dignity to John Coffey, he delivers a remarkable performance that deservedly earned him an Academy Award nomination. He's supported by an equally impressive cast, with Doug Hutchison making Percy Wetmore one of the most thoroughly detestable characters you're ever likely to encounter, whilst Sam Rockwell injects an unsettling unpredictability into William Wharton.

Warner's DVD may be a little light on extras considering the stature of the film, but the presentation itself is excellent and allows the film's superb performances and moving story to shine through. Whilst some viewers may find the blend of prison drama and supernatural fantasy an unusual combination, the two complement each other surprisingly well. Alongside The Shawshank Redemption, this stands as one of the finest Stephen King adaptations ever brought to the screen and remains an unforgettable piece of cinema. Just don't expect to come away with dry eyes.

Special features

• Walking the Mile - Behind the Scenes Featurette
• Production Notes
• Theatrical Trailer