The Green Mile (1999), directed by Frank Darabont and based on the novel by Stephen King, is a deeply emotional tale set on death row in a Southern prison during the 1930s. Blending themes of justice, compassion, and the supernatural, the film remains a heartbreaking and unforgettable cinematic experience.
Do you remember the characters, the miracles, and the powerful moments that made The Green Mile a classic? Take this 10-question trivia quiz and test your knowledge of this soul-stirring story. Only those who truly walked the Mile will ace this one.
The Green Mile Trivia Questions & Answers
Here are the correct answers to each question, along with detailed explanations that explore the emotional depth and spiritual power of The Green Mile (1999):
1) Who directed the film The Green Mile (1999)?
Correct Answer: Frank Darabont
Frank Darabont, known for his mastery in adapting Stephen King’s works, directed The Green Mile after the success of The Shawshank Redemption. His ability to blend supernatural elements with deeply human themes created a haunting yet hopeful atmosphere that has made the film endure for decades.
2) Which actor plays the role of John Coffey?
Correct Answer: Michael Clarke Duncan
Michael Clarke Duncan delivered a career-defining performance as John Coffey, a gentle giant with a miraculous gift. His portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination and remains one of the most emotionally affecting roles in modern cinema, conveying both physical power and deep, soulful sadness.
3) What is the profession of Paul Edgecomb in the film?
Correct Answer: Prison guard
Tom Hanks plays Paul Edgecomb, the head guard on death row at Cold Mountain Penitentiary. His role is central to the story, as he slowly uncovers the truth about Coffey’s innocence and miraculous abilities. Paul’s compassionate leadership provides a moral anchor in a harsh and unjust world.
4) Why is John Coffey on death row?
Correct Answer: He is convicted of murdering two girls
Coffey is found holding the bodies of two murdered young girls and is wrongfully convicted of their deaths. His towering presence and the racial prejudice of the time seal his fate quickly in the eyes of the law. The tragedy is amplified as the truth about his innocence and healing powers comes to light.
5) What supernatural ability does John Coffey possess?
Correct Answer: He can heal others
Coffey demonstrates the power to heal illness and pain by absorbing the affliction into himself. He cures Paul’s urinary infection, revives Mr. Jingles, and even transfers a disease into another character as an act of divine retribution. His gift is portrayed as both miraculous and burdensome.
6) Which character deliberately kills a mouse in the film?
Correct Answer: Percy Wetmore
Percy Wetmore, the cruel and arrogant prison guard, intentionally crushes Mr. Jingles under his boot out of spite. This act of cruelty contrasts sharply with the compassion shown by other characters and solidifies Percy as one of the most despicable figures in the story.
7) What is the name of the mouse that becomes a favorite among inmates and guards?
Correct Answer: Mr. Jingles
Mr. Jingles is a mouse that befriends inmate Eduard Delacroix and becomes beloved by both the prisoners and guards. His presence adds a layer of innocence and comfort to the grim setting, and his supernatural survival becomes a symbol of the unexplained magic present on the Green Mile.
8) Which inmate is responsible for the actual crime John Coffey was accused of?
Correct Answer: William ‘Wild Bill’ Wharton
The true killer is William “Wild Bill” Wharton, a violent and unpredictable prisoner who later admits through a supernatural vision shared with Paul that he raped and murdered the two girls. This revelation confirms Coffey’s innocence, though it tragically comes too late to stop his execution.
9) How does Coffey demonstrate his innocence to Paul?
Correct Answer: By showing him a vision
Coffey transfers a vision to Paul by holding his hand, allowing him to see the true events of the girls’ deaths. This supernatural communication is key to Paul’s realization that Coffey is not only innocent but divinely gifted. It’s a turning point in the film’s spiritual arc.
10) What does Paul say about John Coffey in the end?
Correct Answer: “He killed them with their love”
This line reflects Paul’s sorrowful understanding of Coffey’s tragedy. Coffey didn’t just suffer injustice; he bore the pain and love of others so deeply that it ultimately destroyed him. Paul’s words encapsulate the emotional weight of the story and the Christ-like metaphor woven through Coffey’s character.
