Not bad, but a little too desperate to please

Rating: 7/10 (27 December 1999)

The Green Mile was fortunate to have such an outstanding cast, because the material wasn't top grade. It wasn't bad, mind you, but it was the typical wow, gee whiz, aren't we going to be a movie that will win Best Picture schmaltz that all the good directors occasionally release in a moment of Oscar avarice and weakness.
The story was definitely engaging, but it was also trite and overly convenient. Events seemed forced so as to allow for future events. At times it felt like effect was driving cause and not the other way around.
Still, the cast is without exception, *phenomenal*. They take a mediocre script and even at times directing, and really turn it up a notch.
The result: an above average film that's slightly pretentious, but does ultimately deliver much of what it promises. Definitely worth the trip! :)