Frankie "Darabont" Goes To Hollywood Succesffully Again!

Rating: 8/10 (21 March 2000)

Director Frank Darabont's first picture "The Shawshank Redemption" is one the best prison films of all time. So what do you do for an encore, Mr. Darabont? Well, this isn't a hard sale or should I say cell. You would just make another prison film! And while you are it Frank, Why don't you cast the biggest male star in Hollywood as your lead actor? Remember to give it a catchy title like "The Green Mile" and not something that sounds like the tongue-twisting challenge of "The Shawshank Redemption." Frank, also do not get imprisoned in coming up with the story. Just call your friend Stephen King, invite him for lunch, and borrow some of his prison stories. If you use some of my ideas Frank, I am sure your 2nd prison film which we would call "The Green Mile" will make more green at the box-office than what you beloved Shawshank totaled up. Wow! Frank! I am glad you took my advice. I just saw your "Green Mile" and I thought it was very good. I see that you adapted it from Stephen King's story about a death row giant and his supernatural powers. I see that you once again created a bond between the black and white man in prison by having the prison guard befriend this gentle giant. I am also glad that you hired Tom Hanks to be the lead actor in the film as the prison guard. Told you he was good! However, Frank I did not expect to see very fine supporting performances from fairly unknowned actors such as Michael Clarke Duncan and Doug Hutchinson. Way to go Frank! Looks like you don't always need all my help! Also, it looks like "The Green Mile" did pretty good in the box office. However, Frank the only thing that shocks me about this film is its length. 3 hours and 10 minutes for a film is like a life sentence in cinematic terms! But all in all Frank, I am very proud of your "Green Mile." Frank- Even though you are now enjoying all the greatness of your film, I hope you don't relax too much and hoping that this Frankie Goes to Hollywood again. **** good