“The Green Mile” – Full Summary: Justice, Pain, and Miracles in Every Frame
“The Green Mile”, directed by Frank Darabont in 1999, is a dramatic film enriched with fantasy elements based on the novel by Stephen King. The story is set in the 1930s American South, in the death row block of Cold Mountain Penitentiary. The main characters include Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks) and the mysterious inmate John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan).
Beginning: Shadows of the Past
The film begins in 1999, in a retirement home where elderly Paul Edgecomb (Dabbs Greer) lives. As he reflects on his past, he begins to recount the events of 1935, when he worked as a death row guard at Cold Mountain Prison. The block was nicknamed “The Green Mile” because of the green linoleum floor.
Life in Prison and the Guards
Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks) is the head guard of death row at Cold Mountain. He is joined by fellow officers Brutus "Brutal" Howell (David Morse), Dean Stanton (Barry Pepper), and Harry Terwilliger (Jeffrey DeMunn). They try to treat prisoners fairly and humanely.
However, Percy Wetmore (Doug Hutchison), a cruel guard with connections to the governor, abuses his authority and mistreats inmates, particularly Eduard Delacroix (Michael Jeter) and his pet mouse, Mr. Jingles.
A New Inmate: John Coffey
In the summer of 1935, a huge yet gentle African-American man named John Coffey is brought to the Green Mile. He has been sentenced for the rape and murder of two white girls. Coffey’s innocent demeanor, fear of the dark, and childlike behavior make Paul question his guilt.
Mr. Jingles and Delacroix
Eduard Delacroix keeps a pet mouse, Mr. Jingles, which becomes beloved by the guards and inmates. During Delacroix’s execution, Percy deliberately neglects to wet the sponge used for conducting electricity, causing a horrific death that deeply traumatizes the other guards.
Coffey’s Supernatural Powers
One night, Coffey cures Paul’s severe urinary infection by holding his hand and drawing the illness out of him. Later, Coffey even brings Mr. Jingles back to life after Percy kills the mouse. These events convince Paul that Coffey possesses miraculous healing powers.
The True Criminal: “Wild Bill” Wharton
William “Wild Bill” Wharton (Sam Rockwell), another inmate, behaves violently and erratically. Through his powers, Coffey reveals to Paul and the others that it was actually Wharton who committed the murders for which Coffey was convicted. Coffey had found the girls and was mistakenly blamed.
Healing Melinda Moores
The prison warden’s wife, Melinda Moores (Patricia Clarkson), is suffering from a brain tumor. Paul and his colleagues secretly take Coffey to the Moores’ home, where he miraculously heals her. During this, Coffey also transmits the tumor’s illness to Percy, causing him to shoot and kill Wharton before falling into a catatonic state.
Coffey’s Execution and Its Aftermath
Exhausted by the pain and suffering of others, Coffey expresses his wish to die. Although Paul and the other guards know he is innocent, they grant his request and carry out the execution. This event leaves a profound impact on all of them.
Paul’s Long Life and Memories
Coffey passes on a part of his powers to Paul and Mr. Jingles, allowing them to live extraordinarily long lives. At 104 years old, Paul is still alive, reflecting on the past, the injustice of Coffey’s fate, and the weight of memory.
Conclusion and Reflections
“The Green Mile” is a powerful exploration of humanity, compassion, and justice. Combining supernatural elements with deep moral questions, it forces viewers to confront themes of conscience and forgiveness. The performances by Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan add emotional depth to this unforgettable film.
Questions to Ponder
-
What do Coffey’s supernatural powers symbolize, and how do they affect others?
-
How does the film portray justice and humanity?
-
How do you interpret Paul’s long life as a consequence of his past?
Let’s reflect and discuss this remarkable story.