The Green Mile Ending Explained
The 1999 fantasy drama based on Stephen King's novel The Green Mile has been capturing audiences for decades thanks to its emotional story and deep, challenging themes—but what does the Oscar-nominated film's ending really mean? The Green Mile concerns the 1935-set story of death row prison guard Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks) as he meets and is forever changed by the mild-mannered John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan), a physically imposing Black man sentenced to death for the rape and murder of two white girls.
Over the course of the film, directed and written by Frank Darabont, it not only becomes clear that Coffey is innocent, but that he possesses a range of supernatural abilities. The most notable of these is the ability to heal living things—although the film also implies that Coffey is capable of more. Like many Stephen King adaptations, The Green Mile balances its supernatural plot elements with deeper themes and ideas.
Related: The Green Mile: The Actors Who Almost Replaced Sam Rockwell & Tom Hanks
The Green Mile's ending ultimately sees Coffey executed for the crimes he didn't commit. However, before he dies, he passes some of his abilities on to Paul, forever changing the guard's life. It's a bittersweet conclusion, but it also leaves one or two burning questions that require closer inspection.
As The Green Mile reveals that Coffey is innocent of the crime he was convicted for, his execution makes a sad ending for the character. However, despite his powers and his substantial size, Coffey makes no real attempt to resist his fate. Although some Stephen King endings are generally unsatisfying, The Green Mile's conclusion is as touching as it is heartbreaking, as it sees Coffey accepting his cruel fate.
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