The film explores the relationship between Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks), a prison guard on Death Row (E block) at Cold Mountain Penitentiary, and a prisoner John Coffey (Michael Clark Duncan). The film is based on a six part serialised story by Stephen King (1995).
The story deals with trust, love, compassion, and miracles that happen in the most unexpected places by the most unexpected people (contrary to the efficient ‘marketing of miracles’ by some telly evangelists and as depicted so well in the Steve Martin movie, ‘Leap of Faith’). It’s also about the harsh reality of life in the 1930′s Depression era and on Death Row – with beatings, cruelty, psychic pain, executions, murders, and vengeance.
And in the midst of this reality, the film is also about encountering the transcendent in the ordinary circumstances of life, and its impact on the lives of people. It’s a great vehicle for prompting discussions about faith!
There’s so much to discuss! This discussion sheet gives focus to some questions but each section will give rise to new questions! (It’s a long film (3 hours), so don’t go to a late session if you want to include discussion).
Download the pdf discussion guide for the complete resource.
Link : IMDb entry
Link : Hollywood Jesus review
Download: Discussion Guide for The Green Mile
About djwright
