A supernatural tale set on death row in a Southern prison, where gentle giant John Coffey possesses the mysterious power to heal people's ailments. When the cell block's head guard, Paul Edgecomb, recognizes Coffey's miraculous gift, he tries desperately to help stave off the condemned man's execution.
Nominated for 4 Oscars. 15 wins & 37 nominations total
Top Critics Reviews
fresh:
In its own old-fashioned way, Frank Darabont's style of picture making is well matched to King-size yarn spinning.
– Lisa Schwarzbaum,
Entertainment Weekly,
1 Jan 2000
rotten:
Three long hours of wind, an exercise in titanic self-importance intent on passing off klunky rhetoric as poignant drama.
– Rick Groen,
Globe and Mail,
25 Apr 2003
rotten:
The supernatural elements carry an undeniable emotional charge, but the solution to the underlying murder mystery is disappointingly tidy and trite.
– Derek Adams,
Time Out,
24 Jun 2006
rotten:
To more than a few viewers, this one will feel like a life sentence.
– Richard Corliss,
TIME Magazine,
24 Aug 2008
fresh:
Much of the three-hour movie takes place in the prison, but the resonant characterization, expansive plotting, and judicious use of exterior locations and flashbacks turn the walls into windows.