Sigh

Rating: Null/10 (23 August 2000)

I cannot believe some people rank this movie higher than The Shawshank Redemption. Allow me to briefly compare the two. (Yes, comparison is totally warranted, seeing as there are written by the same author and presented in a similar manner)
The Green Mile has an "inspiring" story which it tells in a truly ordinary manner. It plays heavily on such nonsense as "miracles," and the star-power of Tom Hanks. There is no inner meaning to the Mile beyond what is presented on screen. Is there good filmmaking, yes, but it's just so superficial. The water runs no deeper than the events that occur, no matter how fond you are of the idea of fate and wonderful things.
Shawshank, on the other hand has an "ordinary" story told in a truly remarkable manner; it is not an egocentric recap of Andy's adventures in prison, but about how he has inspired Red's life in the way he deals with his situation. The movie reflects so deeply in the conflicts of human life; the idea of purpose, worth, and taking control of one's destiny. This is where the Mile so grossly misses the mark. What are we to do with its story?