The Green Mile, a serial novel by Stephen King, was adapted into a film in 1999, directed by Frank Darabont. The movie features a talented ensemble cast, bringing to life the characters of Cold Mountain Penitentiary's E Block, also known as the Green Mile. The story revolves around Paul Edgecomb, the superintendent of the Green Mile, and his team, as they encounter a man with supernatural healing powers, John Coffey, who is wrongly accused of murdering two young girls.
The Main Cast

The main cast of The Green Mile includes Tom Hanks as Paul Edgecomb, the superintendent of the Green Mile, who possesses a strong sense of justice and compassion. David Morse plays Brutus “Brutal” Howell, the head guard of the Green Mile, who is known for his tough exterior and soft interior. Sam Rockwell portrays William Wharton, a wild and unpredictable inmate, while Michael Clarke Duncan brings to life John Coffey, the gentle giant with supernatural healing powers.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast of The Green Mile includes Bonnie Hunt as Jan Edgecomb, Paul’s wife, who is suffering from a terminal illness. James Cromwell plays Warden Hal Moores, the corrupt and cruel warden of Cold Mountain Penitentiary. Michael Jeter portrays Eduard Delacroix, a prisoner who is sentenced to death for murdering a young girl, and Graham Greene plays Arlen Bitterbuck, a Native American inmate who is also on death row. Patricia Clarkson plays Melinda Moores, the warden’s wife, who is suffering from cancer.
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Tom Hanks | Paul Edgecomb |
| David Morse | Brutus "Brutal" Howell |
| Sam Rockwell | William Wharton |
| Michael Clarke Duncan | John Coffey |
| Bonnie Hunt | Jan Edgecomb |
| James Cromwell | Warden Hal Moores |
| Michael Jeter | Eduard Delacroix |
| Graham Greene | Arlen Bitterbuck |
| Patricia Clarkson | Melinda Moores |

Key Points
- The Green Mile cast includes Tom Hanks, David Morse, Sam Rockwell, and Michael Clarke Duncan, among others.
- The film is based on the serial novel by Stephen King and was adapted into a screenplay by Frank Darabont.
- The story takes place in the 1930s at Cold Mountain Penitentiary's E Block, also known as the Green Mile.
- The film explores themes of justice, compassion, and redemption, and features a range of complex characters.
- The Green Mile was a critical and commercial success, earning several Academy Award nominations and winning the Saturn Award for Best Horror Film.
Behind the Scenes

The Green Mile was filmed on location in Tennessee and North Carolina, with a budget of $60 million. The film’s sets were designed to resemble the 1930s, with a focus on creating a realistic and immersive environment. The cast underwent extensive training to prepare for their roles, including learning about the history of the time period and the experiences of prisoners on death row.
Reception and Legacy
The Green Mile received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the performances of the cast, as well as the film’s emotional and thought-provoking story. The film holds a 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 7.1⁄10. The Green Mile has also been recognized for its historical significance, with the film being selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.
What is the Green Mile about?
+The Green Mile is a film about a man with supernatural healing powers, John Coffey, who is wrongly accused of murdering two young girls and is sentenced to death. The story takes place in the 1930s at Cold Mountain Penitentiary’s E Block, also known as the Green Mile.
Who plays the role of Paul Edgecomb in the film?
+Tom Hanks plays the role of Paul Edgecomb, the superintendent of the Green Mile.
What awards did the film receive?
+The Green Mile received several awards, including the Saturn Award for Best Horror Film, and earned four Academy Award nominations.