A Near Perfect Film, at least I think so!

Rating: 10/10 (22 December 1999)

Usually before I take the time to write a short review, I read over the previous comments to get a general feel for what has been said already to avoid any repetition. What struck me immediately was the love-it or hate-it view, with hardly anybody sitting on the fence. I really can't understand the ones who hated it, but of course they are entitled to their opinion. I was mesmerized and at the films end said that I had just seen the best picture of 1999. In fact, I would say that this was a near perfect film. Being a Stephen King fan, I read The Green Mile in its original serial installments, and remember marking each installments release date on my calendar, and buying each on its release date. I was very pleased to hear that a film was being made, and that Tom Hanks would play Paul. I even convinced my wife (not a Stephen King Fan) and daughter to read the books prior to last nights viewing. The 3+ hours, I didn't even notice them. The near filled theatre was quiet, and riveted. I did not notice much movement, or talking with the exception of the all to frequent cell phone interruption. The casting and acting, again near perfect. I cannot think of an alternate actor to play any of the parts that would have been better. It was great to see David Morse, Bonnie Hunt and Harry Dean Stanton. Gary Sinise, although with very little screen time, leaves a lasting impression on the Depression era mentality (morality). Like I said at the beginning, a near perfect film with a mix of suspense, humor, and spiritualism. I can already see Billy Crystal doing the "water closet" scene during his best film montage at the Oscar's.