Moving, strong drama

Rating: 7/10 (3 June 2010)

This moving, strong drama is well paced by Frank Darabont, who knows how to do this stuff (see "The Shawshank Redemption"). His direction along with the familiar score from composer Thomas Newman gives one the strong feeling of "deja-vu" at times. The original story was from the pen of Stephen King once again.
Acting in this film may well be its strongest point. Tom Hanks masters yet another role as the practical warden of Cold Mountain Penitentiary. Excellent support come from Bonnie Hunt, James Cromwell, Michael Jeter, Graham Greene and many others. David Morse is especially memorable as Hanks' workmate Brutal. The darling of Hollywood now though is Michael Clarke Duncan, after his strong, emotional portrayal of the giant John Coffey who seems so out of place on death row.
Yes the film could be called formulaic, following as it does a reasonably obvious path; and I really didn't like the behavior of certain characters that I thought were above certain responses. All this aside, this is a most enjoyable, entertaining outing from Darabont that touches the heart once again.
Saturday, March 18, 2000 - Village Crown Gold Class