The Green Mile Plot Synopsis
The Green Mile is a prison fantasy drama released in 1999, showcasing Stephen King’s vivid imagination. This thought-provoking film is set in 1935 at Cold Mountain Penitentiary in Louisiana, where an enigmatically massive convict named John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan) arrives, sparking a series of events that captivate the audience. The climax of the film is particularly powerful, leaving viewers emotionally moved. Let’s explore what makes The Green Mile ending so special and unforgettable.
John Coffey: A Remarkable Character
The arrival of John Coffey at Cold Mountain Penitentiary initially paints him as dangerous and cruel. However, Coffey quickly defies expectations by winning over the hearts of the death row prison guards and even a fellow inmate. Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks), the head guard of the death row, gradually realizes that Coffey is far from ordinary.
Paul Edgecomb’s Perception of Coffey
John Coffey’s conviction for the rape and brutal murder of two young girls suggests a heinous crime. Yet, Coffey’s caring and miraculous personality contradicts his atrocious act. He possesses an extraordinary ability to heal people and alleviate their pain. Coffey’s healing touch cures Paul’s bladder infection, breathes new life into a fellow prisoner’s pet mouse (Mr. Jingles), and dispenses justice to those deserving it. Paul comes to understand that Coffey harbors a reverence for goodness and possesses a deep desire to eradicate evil. In Paul’s eyes, an evil man could not possess such god-given powers. Thus, Coffey becomes akin to a divine figure.
Coffey’s View of His Execution
Despite his calm exterior, Coffey is constantly consumed by his own thoughts. However, his fears do not revolve around his impending execution. On “The Green Mile” – as the death row is nicknamed in the movie – Coffey remains composed. During the execution, he only requests that Paul refrain from covering his head, expressing his fear of darkness. Moments before his death, Coffey displays a broad smile, apologizing to the families of the victims for a crime he did not commit.
A Biblical Undertone
Close observation reveals parallels between the unjust execution of John Coffey and Jesus’ crucifixion. The initials “J.C.” further allude to this connection. Coffey, weary from witnessing human suffering and agony, embarks on a mission to reform humanity, only to realize the limitations of his endeavors. He embodies a biblical figure – a man as broken and feeble as depicted in scripture. His lack of resistance during execution echoes the concept of dying for the sins of others. Lastly, his heartfelt apology seeks to bring peace to those affected before his passing. Thus, John Coffey’s fate was not predestined; he chose it himself.
Coffey’s Gift to Paul: Boon or Bane?
John Coffey bestows his healing powers onto Paul, although the exact implications are not explicitly stated. It is likely that Paul plays a significant role in Coffey’s extended life. Framed scenes reveal Paul at the age of 108, still accompanied by Mr. Jingles. While Paul perceives his prolonged lifespan as a painful consequence of his involvement in Coffey’s execution, it is widely believed that Coffey blessed him with longevity. Paul’s inherent kindness ensures that his extended life influences many more people positively, aligning with Coffey’s ultimate wish for good deeds to prevail among humanity.
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