Deeply Moving and Haunting

Rating: 10/10 (14 December 1999)

I expected The Green Mile to be stupid, preachy, and none-to-subtle. It wasn't subtle, but it worked for me. Pinned me to my damned seat is what it did. I pretty much saw most "surprises" coming, but the movie worked so hard to get there that it didn't bother me. I didn't have a problem with the running time, as I think it was important to develop a genuine familiarity with the characters. My heart was heavy after leaving the theater, but I respect a movie that can affect me like that, in an honest fashion. The movie is perfectly cast from Hanks to William Sadler in the role of the father of the girls. Everyone is good, but I was especially impressed with Sam Rockwell and Michael Jeter. I've only seen Rockwell in one other thing, and that was some stupid drunk-driving after-school-type special I had to watch for health class six years ago. I can remember back then thinking he had talent, and continue to think so, as he made Wharton perversely funny, while still a soul-less b***ard.
I had the misfortune of not seeing Shawshank until it came out on video. That undoubtedly affects the fact that The Green Mile had more of an impact on me the first time. I look forward to seeing if it holds up as well as Shawshank upon further viewing.