Simply spell-bound after watching such a great film filled with supreme life messages and ideals. Although the kind of screenplay that's needed for this film is quite risky to execute and to keep a minimum success guarantee commercially, the output is a very very high quality version of any fantasy social drama that has come till date. Personally I feel this is the best fantasy/mysterical genre film I've ever seen.
Performance wise I was disheartened after learning that Duncan didn't receive the Academy award for this and also for the film not receiving the Best Picture at the Academy awards. Soul touching performances by both Duncan and Tom. Also all the other officers in the Mile performed very naturally.
The biggest positive that I felt in the film is that although the film is for 3 hrs, the screenplay is so interesting that we hardly feel the film is long at all. The main twist in the film comes when we realize that Duncan possesses supernatural powers.
Technically, this film is a class. Needless to mention about Cinematography and music. They have done their work brilliantly.
The film has supreme, deep and minute layers that can be understood and appreciated if the audience keely observes the story and follows it. Lots of technical detailing that connects to the story's theme and the story's progress perfectly. When that is recognized, one will have great respect for the film.
Personally, I found the film both entertaining and thought provoking. So this film will cater to all the audience, the commercial ones, as it has many things for that like comedy and some amount of action. It will also entertain the non-commercial audience giving thought provoking messages and ideas.
The Green Mile is a MUST WATCH especially for those who would like to learn about Film making, crafting a story and writing a story stacked with layers perfectly.
Rating- 10/10 (A seriously worth film for this rating)
Stephen King has always been one of my favourite authors, but admittedly his stories can be very hard to put to screen. It's just the way he writes and the things he can write about.
But this movie captured it superbly. Incredibly moving, but gritty in classic King fashion. I've even read the book and compared the two, it's still an excellent adaptation.
I would highly reccomend this movie, even to those who are not familiar with Stephen King or his books.
Duncan does an excellent portrayal as John Coffey, and plays the role with grace and respect.
And any fans of Tom Hanks will adore his riveting performance as well. Aces on all sides, great casting.
Book or movie, I will usually suggest the book first, but in this case, you can pick up either one first and still be satisfied with the other.