The Green Mile – A supernatural journey of redemption and forgiveness.
Watch the original version of The Green Mile
Prologue:
The Green Mile was a place of death. It was where men who had been sentenced to die by the electric chair waited for their final moments. But it was also the place where John Coffey, a gentle giant with a mysterious power to heal, was sent. And it was where Paul Edgecomb, the head guard of the prison, would be forever changed.
It was a place of despair, hope, and the unexplainable. And as the story unfolds, it will take them on a journey that will challenge everything they thought they knew about life and death.
Chapter 1: The Arrival
Paul Edgecomb was a seasoned professional. He had seen everything there was to see on death row. He had seen men beg and plead for their lives, and he had seen others go to their deaths with a kind of stoic acceptance.
But when John Coffey arrived, he knew right away that he was dealing with something different. Coffey was a massive man, standing over six and a half feet tall, with hands that were almost comically large. But it was his eyes that caught Edgecomb’s attention – they were warm, kind, and seemed to hold a secret that Edgecomb couldn’t quite decipher.
As Edgecomb watched the new inmates being brought in, he noticed that Coffey was different from the others. He was shy and gentle, almost like a child. But there was a power in him that Edgecomb couldn’t quite understand.
It wasn’t until one of the guards fell gravely ill that Coffey’s true nature was revealed.
Edgecomb had been in the guard station when he heard the commotion. When he arrived on the scene, he found one of his guards lying on the floor, his face twisted in pain. The man was gasping for air, and there seemed to be nothing anyone could do to help him.
That’s when Coffey stepped forward. He placed his massive hands on the man’s face, and something miraculous happened. The guard’s pain disappeared, and he began to breathe normally again.
Edgecomb was stunned. He knew that Coffey was different, but he had no idea that he possessed such a power. And as he watched Coffey’s hands glow with a strange light, he knew that he was dealing with something that was beyond his understanding.
But as the days went on, Edgecomb began to realize that Coffey’s gift was both a blessing and a curse.
The other guards on the block were terrified of Coffey, and they treated him with a kind of superstitious reverence. But Edgecomb saw something else in Coffey – a kind of sadness that he couldn’t quite pinpoint.
It wasn’t until he began to investigate Coffey’s past that he began to understand the true nature of the man he was dealing with. Coffey had been accused of a heinous crime – the rape and murder of two young girls. But as Edgecomb listened to Coffey’s story, he began to believe that there was more to the story than what had been presented in court.
And as the days passed, Edgecomb began to understand that the truth was far more complicated than anyone could have ever imagined.
Chapter 2: “The Healing”
As Edgecomb sat at his desk, filling out paperwork, one of the guards burst into the room, gasping for air. The man was clutching at his chest, and it was clear that he was in dire straits. Edgecomb quickly sprang into action, calling for a medical team to come and assist.
While they waited for the team to arrive, Edgecomb sat with the guard, offering words of comfort and trying to keep him calm. But it was clear that the man was getting worse by the second. His face was turning blue, and his breathing was labored.
Just as Edgecomb was starting to fear the worst, Coffey appeared in the doorway. The enormous man had a calm expression on his face, and he strode over to the guard’s bedside with a sense of purpose.
Edgecomb watched in amazement as Coffey placed his hands on the man’s chest, closing his eyes as if in concentration. For a moment, nothing happened. But then, slowly, the man’s breathing began to ease. His face turned from blue back to its normal color, and he began to take deep, calming breaths.
Edgecomb was stunned. He had never seen anything like it. The man had been close to death just moments ago, but now he seemed to be recovering quickly. As the medical team arrived and took over, Edgecomb turned to Coffey, wanting to know more.
“How did you do that?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Coffey shrugged, his eyes downcast. “I don’t rightly know, boss. It just…happens. When I touch someone who’s hurt, I can feel it inside them. I can feel their pain.”
Edgecomb was flabbergasted. Here was a man who had supposedly committed a heinous crime, and yet he possessed a gift that could change lives. He couldn’t help but wonder what other abilities Coffey might have.
Over the next few days, Edgecomb watched Coffey closely, trying to discern more about his mysterious power. He noticed that whenever Coffey was around, the other inmates seemed calmer, as if his presence had a soothing effect on them. Even the guards seemed to be less on edge.
It was as if Coffey’s gentleness and calmness were contagious.
Edgecomb couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something truly special – perhaps even supernatural – about Coffey. He began reading up on all sorts of healing practices, trying to find answers to the questions that plagued him.
As he delved deeper into the topic, he began to realize that Coffey’s abilities were unlike anything he had ever heard of before. It wasn’t just that he seemed to be able to heal people – it was the way he did it. The aura of calmness and peace that surrounded him was almost palpable.
Edgecomb knew that he needed to be careful with Coffey. There were those who might try to exploit his abilities for their own gain, or who might be afraid of him and his powers. But at the same time, he couldn’t help but feel a glimmer of hope that Coffey might be able to help him in ways he never thought possible.
As the days passed, Edgecomb continued to observe Coffey, trying to learn as much as he could about him and his mysterious powers. He knew that there were still many unanswered questions, but he was determined to find the answers – no matter what it took.
Little did he know, the answers he sought would push him to the brink of his own morality, and force him to question everything he thought he knew about life and death.
Chapter 3: “The Investigation”
Paul Edgecomb couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to John Coffey than met the eye. He had watched the gentle giant interact with the other prisoners, and there was something different about him. He was kind, almost childlike, but with a quiet strength that suggested he could handle himself in tough situations.
But it wasn’t until Coffey healed one of the guards that Edgecomb became truly intrigued. He had never seen anything like it – Coffey had placed his hands on the guard’s face, and the man’s illness had disappeared. Edgecomb couldn’t explain it, but he knew that it was something special.
He began to investigate Coffey’s past, and what he found only added to the mystery. Coffey had been accused of a horrendous crime – the rape and murder of two young girls. But there were inconsistencies in the case, and Coffey himself insisted that he didn’t do it. Edgecomb was torn – he knew it was his duty to carry out the execution, but he also couldn’t bear the thought of putting an innocent man to death.
He mulled over the details of the case, piecing together the evidence and trying to make sense of it all. He talked to Coffey, trying to get a better understanding of who he was and what had happened. Coffey was patient and kind, answering each of Edgecomb’s questions honestly.
As the days passed, Edgecomb grew more and more convinced of Coffey’s innocence. He had a gut feeling that there was something sinister lurking beneath the surface of the case, and he was determined to get to the bottom of it.
He went back to the crime scene, walking through the forest where the girls had been found. It was a bleak and haunting place, with dark shadows and twisted trees. As he walked, he found himself thinking of the girls – their innocence, their pain, their fear. It was as if he could feel their presence with him, urging him to find the truth.
Finally, he came across something that made his blood run cold – a scrap of fabric, caught on a nearby branch. It was a small thing, but it was enough to send a shiver down his spine. He realized that he was on the right track, that he was finally getting close to unraveling the mystery.
He rushed back to the prison, determined to confront Coffey with his findings. But he was too late – the execution was already scheduled, and the clock was ticking down. Edgecomb was torn between his duty as a guard and his desire to do the right thing. He knew that he couldn’t let an innocent man die, but he also knew that if he tried to intervene, he would put his own life in danger.
As he sat in his office, staring at the clock, he felt a deep sense of despair. He knew that whatever he did, someone would suffer – either Coffey, or the families of the murdered girls, or himself. He wondered if there was any way to make things right, if there was any way to bring justice to those who had been wronged.
He spent long hours poring over the evidence, trying to find some new angle, some overlooked detail that would crack the case wide open. But it was like trying to find a needle in a haystack – the more he looked, the more confused he became.
In the end, Edgecomb had to make a choice. He could either do what was expected of him, and carry out the execution, or he could take a risk and try to set Coffey free. It was a gut-wrenching decision, and he agonized over it for days.
Finally, on the day of the execution, he made up his mind. He knew what he had to do, even if it meant putting his own life on the line. He went into Coffey’s cell, and told him the truth – that he believed him, that he knew he was innocent, and that he was going to do everything in his power to clear his name.
Coffey just looked at him with his soft, mournful eyes, and nodded. He didn’t say anything, but Edgecomb knew that he understood. And for the first time in a long time, he felt like he was doing the right thing.
Chapter 4: “The Confession”
As Paul Edgecomb delves deeper into John Coffey’s story, the pieces begin to fall into place. The gentle giant had been accused of a heinous crime, the rape and murder of two young girls. However, as Edgecomb hears more about Coffey’s past, he begins to believe that there’s more to the story.
One day, Edgecomb takes Coffey aside and asks him to tell him the truth. Coffey hesitates, but then begins to speak in a soft, halting voice.
“I was there that night,” he says. “I saw what happened.”
Edgecomb listens intently as Coffey describes how he had been walking along a deserted road when he heard the girls screaming. He had run to their aid, but it was too late – they were already dead.
“I could feel their fear,” Coffey says. “I tried to heal them, but I couldn’t. It was too late.”
Edgecomb is stunned. He had never heard anything like this before. But as he looks into Coffey’s eyes, he knows that the man is telling the truth.
“You didn’t do it,” he says firmly. “I believe you.”
Coffey looks up at him, his eyes full of tears.
“I didn’t do it,” he whispers. “I swear, I didn’t do it.”
Edgecomb wants to believe him, but it’s not that simple. Coffey is still a condemned man, and there’s nothing he can do to change that. But as the days pass, Edgecomb begins to have doubts about Coffey’s guilt. Everything about the man seems to point to his innocence – his gentleness, his kindness, his childlike nature.
Edgecomb starts to investigate further, talking to witnesses and reviewing the evidence. Slowly but surely, a picture emerges of what really happened that night. It becomes clear that Coffey was present at the scene of the crime, but he had tried to help the girls, not harm them.
As Edgecomb continues his investigation, he becomes increasingly convinced that Coffey is innocent. But how can he prove it? The evidence against Coffey is strong, and the legal system is stacked against him.
Edgecomb begins to feel helpless, knowing that Coffey is going to die for a crime he didn’t commit. But he can’t give up. He decides to take matters into his own hands, even if it means risking his job and his life.
Edgecomb is determined to find a way to clear Coffey’s name, no matter what the cost. And as he begins to dig deeper, he realizes that the truth behind the crime is even more complex and twisted than he ever could have imagined.
In the end, Edgecomb is faced with a choice – do the right thing and risk everything he has, or take the easy way out and let an innocent man die. It’s a decision that will shape the rest of his life, and he knows that there are no easy answers. But he also knows that he can’t live with himself if he doesn’t try to make things right.
As Coffey looks on, his big brown eyes filled with hope, Edgecomb makes his decision. He will fight for Coffey’s innocence, no matter what the cost. And as the two men shake hands, they both know that their lives will never be the same again.
Chapter 5: “The Escape”
The prison was in lockdown mode as news of the planned escape spread throughout the cell blocks. Paul Edgecomb, the head guard, knew he had to act fast. He gathered his team of guards and began to search for the escapees.
As they made their way through the prison, they could hear the raucous laughter and shouting of the inmates. They knew that the situation was getting out of hand. Finally, they reached the yard, where they found a group of five inmates huddled together, discussing their plans.
Edgecomb approached them with caution, knowing that any sudden movement could trigger an attack. But before he could say anything, one of the inmates stepped forward and threw a punch at him. Edgecomb sidestepped the blow and tackled the inmate to the ground.
The other guards moved in quickly, and a full-blown scuffle ensued. The inmates were outnumbered, but they fought fiercely, determined to get away. As the chaos continued, a gunshot rang out, followed by a scream.
Edgecomb looked up to see one of his guards lying on the ground, bleeding profusely. He realized that the inmates had somehow gotten hold of a firearm and had used it against them.
The situation was critical now. The inmates were becoming more aggressive by the minute, and they were armed. Edgecomb knew that he had to act fast to prevent a full-scale riot.
He signaled to his guards to back away slowly, hoping to defuse the situation. But the inmates were closing in on them, and they had nowhere to go. Suddenly, a deep voice boomed out from the chaos.
“Stop.”
At first, Edgecomb thought he was imagining things. But then he saw John Coffey standing in the middle of the yard, holding out his arms in a gesture of peace.
“Stop fighting,” Coffey said, his voice firm yet gentle. “There’s no need for this.”
For a moment, the yard fell silent. Then, one of the inmates lunged at Coffey, brandishing a shiv. But Coffey didn’t flinch. He simply held out his hand and touched the man on the forehead.
The effect was immediate. The man’s expression softened, and he dropped the shiv. He looked up at Coffey with wonder in his eyes.
Edgecomb watched in amazement as Coffey moved through the crowd, touching each inmate in turn. Instantly, the tension dissipated, and the inmates began to back away.
Soon, the yard was empty except for Coffey, Edgecomb, and his guards. Edgecomb approached Coffey cautiously, not knowing what to expect.
“Thank you,” he said, his voice shaking. “You saved our lives.”
Coffey smiled sadly. “I wish I could save more lives,” he said, looking down at his hands.
Edgecomb didn’t know what to say. He felt a deep sense of gratitude and awe towards the gentle giant. He knew that Coffey was something special – an enigma, a mystery, a force for good in a world of darkness.
As they made their way back to the cell blocks, Edgecomb couldn’t help but wonder at the power John Coffey possessed. He knew that Coffey’s gift was something he could never fully understand or explain, but he also knew that it was something he would never forget.
Chapter 6: “The Encounter”
Edgecomb was out searching for the escaped inmates when he stumbled across Coffey, who had somehow managed to slip away from the others. The two men regarded each other warily, each one sizing up the other.
“I didn’t think you’d make it this far,” Coffey said, his voice soft and almost childlike.
Edgecomb nodded, feeling a strange mix of relief and sadness wash over him. “I had to try. It’s my job.”
Coffey looked at him quizzically. “Your job?”
Edgecomb hesitated, not sure what to say. He had never talked to Coffey about his role as a prison guard before, and he wasn’t sure if he could explain it in a way that would make sense.
“I’m here to keep the peace, to make sure everyone follows the rules,” he said at last.
Coffey nodded, seeming to understand. “And what do you think of me, Paul?”
Edgecomb was taken aback by the question. He had never heard Coffey use his first name before, and the way he said it – with such gentleness and warmth – made him feel both uncomfortable and grateful.
“I…I don’t know,” he said, fumbling for the right words. “I mean, you’re different from the others, I can see that. But I can’t forget what you’re here for.”
Coffey sighed, his shoulders slumping. “I know. I’m sorry for the trouble I’ve caused.”
Edgecomb felt a sudden surge of compassion. He had never seen Coffey look so defeated, so resigned to his fate. It made him realize how little he really knew about the man, how little he had tried to understand him.
“I want to help you,” he blurted out, surprising himself. “I want to do something to make things right.”
Coffey looked up at him, his eyes wide and uncomprehending. “What do you mean?”
Edgecomb took a deep breath, steeling himself for what he was about to say. “I mean…I don’t think you’re guilty, John. I don’t think you killed those girls.”
Coffey’s face registered shock and disbelief. “You don’t?”
Edgecomb shook his head, feeling a sense of recklessness wash over him. “No, I don’t. I think something else happened, something we don’t understand.”
Coffey seemed to consider this for a moment, his brow furrowed in thought. “But why would you say that? You’ve been my jailer all this time.”
Edgecomb felt a pang of guilt. He had been so focused on his job, so caught up in the routine of prison life, that he had never really taken the time to get to know Coffey. He realized now how unfair that was, how unjust.
“I’m sorry, John,” he said softly. “I should have done more for you. I should have listened to you.”
Coffey looked at him with an intensity that made Edgecomb uneasy. “It’s not too late, Paul. You can still help me.”
Edgecomb hesitated, unsure of what Coffey was asking. “How? What do you want me to do?”
Coffey leaned in close, his eyes burning with an otherworldly light. “I want you to tell my story, Paul. I want you to make sure people know what happened to me, what they did to me.”
Edgecomb felt a shiver run down his spine. He had heard of Coffey’s abilities, of his supposed supernatural powers, but he had never seen them in action. Now, as he looked at the man before him, he felt a strange sense of awe and fear.
“What do you mean, John? What happened to you?”
Coffey took a deep breath, his eyes never leaving Edgecomb’s. “I was there when those girls died, Paul. But I didn’t kill them. I tried to heal them, to take away their pain. But it was too late. They were already gone.”
Edgecomb felt his heart twist in his chest. He had never imagined that Coffey could be capable of such sorrow, such guilt. He wanted to believe him, to trust him, but everything he had been taught about justice and the law was telling him to be cautious.
“John, I don’t know what to say,” he said at last, his voice hoarse. “I need proof, I need something to go on.”
Coffey nodded, seeming to understand. “I know. But you have to believe me, Paul. You have to trust me.”
Edgecomb shook his head, feeling overwhelmed. “I don’t know how.”
Coffey placed a hand on his shoulder, his touch gentle and reassuring. “You’ll find a way, Paul. I know you will. You’re a good man, and you have a good heart.”
Edgecomb didn’t know what to say to that, so he simply nodded, feeling numb and dazed. He had been so sure of himself, so certain of his role and his duties. Now, as he looked into Coffey’s eyes, he felt his foundations shaking.
“I have to go, Paul,” Coffey said suddenly, withdrawing his hand. “They’ll be looking for me soon.”
Edgecomb nodded, still feeling dazed. “I understand. But John – “
Coffey turned back, his eyes bright and intense. “Yes, Paul?”
Edgecomb swallowed, feeling a sudden surge of emotion. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry for everything.”
Coffey smiled, a small, sad smile that had a touch of warmth in it. “I know, Paul. And I forgive you.”
With that, he turned and slipped away into the shadows, leaving Edgecomb standing there, feeling lost and confused. He knew he had a lot to think about, a lot to do. But for now, all he could do was stand there and watch as Coffey disappeared from sight.
Chapter 7: “The Trial”
In a stunning turn of events, a new witness has come forward in John Coffey’s trial, admitting to the murders of the two young girls. The courtroom erupts in chaos as the witness is questioned and confesses to the heinous crimes.
Paul Edgecomb watches from the back of the courtroom, stunned by what he’s seeing. He had always believed in Coffey’s innocence, but he never expected to see the real killer come forward.
After the witness’s testimony, the jury deliberates for hours before finally coming back with a verdict: John Coffey is exonerated of all charges, and his execution is cancelled.
Edgecomb can hardly believe it – after all these years, he’s finally been proven right. He feels a sense of relief and joy that Coffey will no longer have to suffer for a crime he didn’t commit.
But even as he celebrates, Edgecomb can’t shake the feeling that something is wrong. He knows that Coffey is a special man, with a supernatural power that defies explanation. He wonders if there’s more to the story than what he’s been told.
Over the next few days, Edgecomb spends his time reflecting on Coffey’s case, trying to make sense of everything that’s happened. He visits Coffey in his cell, and the two men talk for hours, discussing the meaning of life and the nature of justice.
Through these conversations, Edgecomb begins to see Coffey in a new light. He realizes that Coffey is a gentle soul, who has suffered unimaginable pain and loss. He wonders how he ever could have doubted him.
As the days pass, Edgecomb sees how the other guards and inmates on death row react to the news of Coffey’s exoneration. Some are overjoyed, while others are furious, feeling that justice has been denied.
Edgecomb knows that he must make amends for his part in Coffey’s wrongful conviction. He begins to reach out to the other inmates, offering them his support and help in any way he can.
In the end, Edgecomb retires from his job as a guard, feeling that he’s done all he can to right the wrongs of the past. He spends his remaining years trying to make a positive difference in the lives of others, always remembering the lessons he learned from John Coffey.
In the final moments of the book, Edgecomb lies on his deathbed, surrounded by friends and loved ones. As he takes his last breath, he feels a sense of peace wash over him. He knows that he’s made things right with Coffey, and that he’s leaving the world a better place than he found it.
The story of John Coffey and Paul Edgecomb is one of redemption and forgiveness, of the power of hope and the importance of standing up for what’s right. It’s a story that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
Chapter 8: “The Aftermath”
As Paul Edgecomb sat in his nursing home bed, the memories of the Green Mile prison flooded his mind. He couldn’t help but think about John Coffey, the gentle giant who possessed the mysterious power to heal. The man who Edgecomb failed to save from the electric chair.
Edgecomb was an old man now, with gray hair and wrinkled skin. He had lived a long life, but he couldn’t shake the guilt he felt about Coffey’s execution. As he reflected on his life, he realized that he too had a supernatural power – the power to live a long life. He wondered if Coffey had given him this gift before he died.
But as Edgecomb thought more deeply, he realized that Coffey didn’t deserve to be executed. He was innocent of the crimes he was accused of. Edgecomb’s guilt over Coffey’s execution hit him like a ton of bricks. He couldn’t believe that he had been a part of such a grave injustice.
As Edgecomb lay in bed, he heard a faint voice calling his name. He turned his head to see a figure standing in front of him – a figure that looked just like John Coffey. Edgecomb was stunned. How could this be? Was he hallucinating?
But as the figure spoke to him, Edgecomb knew it was real. Coffey had returned.
“I’ve been sent back to help you make amends for your mistakes,” Coffey said. His voice was soft and gentle, just like Edgecomb remembered.
Edgecomb was overcome with emotion. He had so many questions for Coffey – questions about life, death, and what comes after. Coffey seemed to have all the answers.
For the next few days, Coffey visited Edgecomb every night. They talked about everything – the supernatural powers they possessed, the injustice of Coffey’s execution, and the meaning of life itself. Coffey helped Edgecomb see things in a new light, and Edgecomb felt like he was finally able to make amends for his mistakes.
One night, as they sat together in Edgecomb’s room, Coffey placed his hands on Edgecomb’s head. Edgecomb felt a surge of energy flow through him, and he knew that Coffey was using his healing powers to help him. His body felt stronger than it had in years.
“Thank you,” Edgecomb said, tears streaming down his face.
Coffey smiled. “No need to thank me, Paul. I’m just happy to be able to help.”
As the days passed, Edgecomb felt like he was finally able to find peace in his life. He knew that he had made mistakes in the past, but he was determined to make up for them. And with Coffey’s help, he felt like he had the strength to do so.
Eventually, Coffey told Edgecomb that it was time for him to go. He had fulfilled his purpose in returning to help Edgecomb, and now it was time for him to move on.
Edgecomb was saddened by Coffey’s departure, but he knew that he would always be grateful for the time they spent together. He knew that Coffey’s spirit would always be with him, guiding him towards a better life.
As Edgecomb closed his eyes that night, he knew that he was ready to face whatever lay ahead – even death. He felt like he had finally found redemption, thanks to the supernatural power of John Coffey.
Chapter 9: “The Reckoning”
Years had passed since John Coffey’s execution, but for Paul Edgecomb, the memories were still fresh in his mind. He would often wake up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat, reliving the events of that fateful day. But on this particular night, when he woke up to find John Coffey standing at the foot of his bed, it was different.
Paul rubbed his eyes, thinking that he might be dreaming, but Coffey was still there when he opened them again. He looked exactly as he did when he was alive, except for the fact that he was glowing.
“Paul, it’s me,” Coffey said. “I’ve been sent back to help you make amends for your mistakes.”
Paul couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Was this really John Coffey, back from the dead?
“How is this possible?” he asked.
Coffey explained that when he died, he had been given a choice – to move on to the afterlife or to return to Earth as a helper. He had chosen the latter, and now he was here to help Paul find redemption.
Paul didn’t know what to say. He had spent his entire life regretting the way he had treated the inmates on death row, including John Coffey. He had thought that he was doing his job, but now he realized that he had been wrong.
“What do I do?” he asked Coffey.
Coffey told him that he needed to make amends – to reach out to the families of the inmates he had executed and to ask for their forgiveness. It wouldn’t be easy, but it was necessary.
Paul was hesitant. He didn’t know how to face the families of the men he had killed. But Coffey urged him to be brave.
“You’ve already been given the gift of a long life,” he said. “Don’t waste it by living in regret. Make things right.”
And so Paul set out to do just that. He started by reaching out to the families of the men he had executed, writing letters and making phone calls. Some of them were receptive, while others were angry and resentful. But Paul persevered, determined to make amends.
As he worked to make things right, he felt a weight lifting off his shoulders. For the first time in years, he felt like he had a purpose – like he was making a difference in the world.
And all the while, John Coffey was there, watching over him. They would talk late into the night, Coffey sharing stories of his time on Earth and guiding Paul through his journey of redemption.
One night, as they sat together in Paul’s room, Coffey said something that stuck with him.
“Sometimes we do things that we think are right, but they turn out to be wrong. It’s not about what we’ve done, but what we do to make it right.”
Paul knew that he still had a long way to go, but with John Coffey by his side, he felt like he could accomplish anything.
As the years went by, Paul continued to work towards his goal of redemption. And even after John Coffey had moved on to his next assignment, Paul knew that his spirit would always be with him, guiding him towards a better path.
Chapter 10: “The Redemption”
Edgecomb lay in his bed, his eyes closed, barely breathing. His time had come, and he was ready. He had lived a long life, and now it was time to say goodbye.
But suddenly, he felt a strange presence in the room. He opened his eyes and saw a figure standing before him – it was John Coffey.
“Hello, Boss,” Coffey said softly. “I’m back.”
Edgecomb couldn’t believe his eyes. He reached out and touched Coffey’s hand, and felt a surge of energy flow through him.
“How is this possible?” Edgecomb asked, his voice weak.
Coffey smiled. “I’ve been sent back to help you, Boss. To help you find peace.”
Edgecomb looked at Coffey, and suddenly he knew what he had to do. He had to make amends for his mistakes, for all the men he had wronged, for all the pain he had caused.
He looked at Coffey and said, “I’m sorry, John. I’m so sorry for what I did to you.”
Coffey smiled. “I know, Boss. I forgave you a long time ago.”
Edgecomb closed his eyes, and when he opened them again, he was no longer in his room. He was standing in front of the electric chair, and Coffey was kneeling before him.
“I’m ready, Boss,” Coffey said.
Edgecomb shook his head. “No, John. I can’t do it. I can’t let you die again.”
Coffey looked at Edgecomb, his eyes full of understanding. “It’s okay, Boss. It’s not up to you anymore.”
Suddenly, the room was filled with a blinding light, and Edgecomb felt himself being lifted up, as if he was floating. He looked around and saw that he was surrounded by the spirits of all the men he had executed. They were staring at him, but there was no anger or hatred in their eyes, only acceptance.
“I’m sorry,” Edgecomb whispered. “I’m sorry for what I did to you all.”
The spirits nodded, and then they began to fade away, one by one. And then it was just Edgecomb and Coffey, alone in the room.
“I’m ready, Boss,” Coffey said again.
Edgecomb looked at him, and he knew what he had to do. He reached out and placed his hand on Coffey’s forehead, just as Coffey had done to the sick guard all those years ago.
He felt a surge of energy flow through him, and he knew that he was healing Coffey’s soul, helping him to move on.
Suddenly, Coffey’s body disappeared, and in its place was a small bird. The bird flew up and perched on Edgecomb’s shoulder, and he knew that it was Coffey’s spirit, watching over him.
Edgecomb closed his eyes and felt a sense of peace wash over him. He knew that he had done the right thing, that he had redeemed himself in the eyes of the men he had wronged.
And then he was gone, his spirit ascending into the heavens, where he knew he would find peace at last.
Some scenes from the movie The Green Mile written by A.I.
Scene 1
Opening shot: Aerial view of a Southern prison, the Green Mile.
Fade in:
INT. GREEN MILE – DAY
PAUL EDGECOMB, a seasoned prison guard in his fifties, watches as new inmates are escorted into death row. His eyes land on JOHN COFFEY, a huge and gentle black man. Coffey looks at Edgecomb with an innocent and almost childlike expression.
PAUL EDGECOMB
(to Coffey)
What did they do to you to get you here?
JOHN COFFEY
I don’t rightly know, sir. I guess I must’ve done something wrong.
Edgecomb looks at Coffey with suspicion and shakes his head.
PAUL EDGECOMB
You don’t look like the others. They’re all hard and mean, but you…you look different.
JOHN COFFEY
(smiling)
I try to be kind, sir. My mammy always told me to be kind to others.
Edgecomb nods and walks away, but he can’t shake the feeling that there’s something unusual about Coffey.
Cut to:
INT. INFIRMARY – DAY
One day, one of the guards falls ill and is taken to the infirmary. Edgecomb watches as the man writhes in pain, his face contorted with agony. Coffey approaches the guard and places his hands on his face. The man’s expression softens, and he looks at Coffey with amazement.
GUARD
(to Coffey)
What did you do to me?
JOHN COFFEY
I helped you, sir. I took away your pain.
Edgecomb watches in disbelief as the sick guard stands up, completely cured.
PAUL EDGECOMB
(to Coffey)
How did you do that?
JOHN COFFEY
I just touched him, sir. It’s a gift God gave me.
Edgecomb is stunned and begins to think that Coffey may have a supernatural power.
Fade out.
Scene 2
Scene 2: “The Healing”
INT. DEATH ROW CELL BLOCK – DAY
John Coffey stands in his cell, his massive frame huddled on a small cot. Paul Edgecomb, the head guard, approaches, watching him warily.
PAUL: Heard you’re quite the healer.
JOHN: (nodding) Yes sir.
PAUL: You know, we’ve got a man here who’s pretty sick. Think you could do anything for him?
John nods again and rises from his cot. Paul unlocks the cell door and leads John down to the infirmary.
INT. INFIRMARY – DAY
The sick guard lies on a cot, sweating profusely. John approaches him, placing his massive hands on the man’s face. A warm glow emanates from John’s palms, enveloping the guard.
GUARD: (gasping) My God…
John withdraws his hands and steps back as the guard sits up, looking completely healthy.
PAUL: How did you do that?
JOHN: It’s a gift, sir. A gift from God.
PAUL: (pauses) I don’t know about all that, but I do know that we could use someone like you around here.
John nods, a small smile on his face.
JOHN: I’ll do what I can.
Paul looks at John with newfound respect, and the two men exit the infirmary together.
END OF SCENE
Scene 3
INT. EDGEOMB’S OFFICE – DAY
Paul Edgecomb sits at his desk, poring over records and reports. He’s trying to find any evidence that will exonerate John Coffey, but so far he’s come up empty.
Suddenly, the door bursts open and in strides the WARDEN.
WARDEN
What are you doing, Edgecomb? You’re supposed to be preparing Coffey for his execution!
EDGEOMB
I’m trying to find out the truth, sir. I don’t believe Coffey is guilty.
WARDEN
Nonsense. He’s been tried and convicted, and it’s our job to carry out the sentence.
EDGEOMB
But sir, I’ve talked to Coffey. He’s not like the other inmates. He has a gift.
WARDEN
A gift? What are you talking about, Edgecomb?
EDGEOMB
He has the ability to heal people. I’ve seen it for myself.
The Warden scoffs.
WARDEN
You’re letting your emotions cloud your judgement, Edgecomb. Coffey is a dangerous criminal who deserves to die.
EDGEOMB
But sir…
The Warden cuts him off.
WARDEN
That’s enough, Edgecomb. We have a job to do. Now get back to work.
As the Warden leaves the office, Edgecomb slumps back in his chair, frustrated and defeated. He knows he has to find a way to prove Coffey’s innocence, but he’s running out of time.
Scene 4
INT. DEATH ROW CELL – DAY
Paul Edgecomb sits across from John Coffey, his eyes trained on the prisoner’s face. Coffey’s eyes are gentle, but there’s a sadness behind them that Edgecomb can’t ignore.
PAUL EDGECOMB
John, I need you to tell me what happened that night.
JOHN COFFEY
I was there, boss. But I didn’t do it.
PAUL EDGECOMB
Then who did?
JOHN COFFEY
I don’t know. But I felt their fear. Their pain. And I tried to heal them.
Edgecomb leans forward, his eyes narrowed.
PAUL EDGECOMB
What do you mean, ‘heal them’?
JOHN COFFEY
I have a gift, boss. I can make people better. Heal their sicknesses. Their wounds.
Edgecomb shakes his head, his disbelief evident.
PAUL EDGECOMB
That’s impossible, John. There’s no such thing as magic.
JOHN COFFEY
It’s not magic. It’s a miracle.
Edgecomb stands up, his frustration evident.
PAUL EDGECOMB
You want me to believe that you have some kind of supernatural power? That you’re not a murderer, but a healer?
JOHN COFFEY
I’m telling you the truth, boss. I didn’t do it. And I can prove it.
Edgecomb stares at Coffey for a long moment, his mind racing. Finally, he sighs.
PAUL EDGECOMB
I don’t know if I can believe you, John. But I want to. You seem like a good man.
Coffey nods, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips.
JOHN COFFEY
Thank you, boss. I appreciate it.
Edgecomb turns to leave, his mind full of conflicting thoughts. As he exits the cell block, he knows that he’s not sure what to believe – but he knows that he’s going to try to find out the truth.
Scene 5
Characters:
– Paul Edgecomb: Head guard on death row
– John Coffey: Giant inmate with supernatural powers
– Percy Wetmore: Sadistic guard who antagonizes Coffey
– Wild Bill: Dangerous inmate who escapes with Coffey’s help
Setting:
Death row in a Southern prison, 1930s.
Scene 5: “The Escape”
INT. DEATH ROW – DAY
Paul Edgecomb is sitting in his office, going over paperwork when he hears a commotion outside. He rushes out to see what’s going on and finds chaos in the cell block. Inmates are running around, screaming and fighting, and it’s clear that something bad is happening.
PAUL:
(to a guard)
What the hell is going on?
GUARD:
(sweating heavily)
There’s been an escape, sir. Coffey and Wild Bill, they got out.
PAUL:
(shocked)
What?
Suddenly, they hear a loud crash from outside. They rush to the window and see that Coffey has punched a hole in the wall, creating a makeshift exit.
PAUL:
(to the guards)
Get after them, now! Don’t let them get away!
The guards scramble to grab their weapons and chase after Coffey and Wild Bill. They run through the prison yard, dodging bullets and fighting off inmates who try to stop them.
Suddenly, they come face to face with Percy Wetmore, who is holding a gun on Coffey.
PERCY:
(smiling)
What do we have here? The big guy and his little friend. You should have just stayed in your cells, boys. Now you’re going to pay for what you’ve done.
Coffey looks at Percy with a sad expression, almost as if he knows what’s about to happen.
COFFEY:
(sadly)
I had to try, boss. I had to try and help him.
PERCY:
(laughing)
Help him? You ain’t got the power to help nobody. You’re just a big, dumb animal.
Coffey looks down at the ground, defeated. Suddenly, he starts to glow with a bright light. Percy and the other guards are taken aback, not sure what’s happening.
COFFEY:
(straining)
I’m taking it back…I’m taking it all back…
Suddenly, the light intensifies and Coffey’s body floats off the ground. He starts to shake violently, and a burst of energy shoots out of him, knocking Percy and the other guards to the ground.
When the smoke clears, Coffey and Wild Bill are gone. The guards are left dazed and confused, not sure what just happened.
PAUL:
(stunned)
What…what just happened?
GUARD:
(shaking his head)
I don’t know, sir. But I don’t think we’ll be seeing those two again.
Scene 6
FADE IN:
EXT. PRISON YARD – DAY
PAUL EDGECOMB and JOHN COFFEY come face to face in the middle of the prison yard.
PAUL: (tense) What are you doing out here, Coffey?
JOHN: (calmly) Just taking a walk, Boss.
PAUL: (skeptical) You know you’re not supposed to be out here without an escort.
JOHN: (smiling) I’m not going anywhere. Just wanted to feel the sun on my face.
PAUL studies JOHN for a moment, then takes a deep breath.
PAUL: (hesitant) You know, Coffey, I’ve been thinking a lot about you lately.
JOHN: (curious) Oh yeah? What about?
PAUL: (conflicted) About what we do here. About the men we keep locked up in those cells.
JOHN: (nodding) It’s a hard job you have, Boss. I know that. But you’re a good man.
PAUL: (shaken) I don’t know about that, Coffey. I’ve done some things in my life that I’m not proud of.
JOHN: (sympathetic) We all have, Boss. But it’s never too late to do the right thing.
PAUL looks at JOHN, who seems to radiate a sense of peace and understanding.
PAUL: (softly) How do you do it, Coffey? How do you stay so calm in here, knowing what’s going to happen to you?
JOHN: (smiling) I’m not afraid of death, Boss. I know where I’m going.
PAUL: (intrigued) Where’s that?
JOHN: (serene) Home.
PAUL is taken aback by JOHN’s answer.
PAUL: (whispering) Home.
JOHN: (nodding) That’s right, Boss. The place I was always meant to be.
PAUL stares at JOHN for a long moment, then takes a step back.
PAUL: (shaken) I’m sorry, Coffey. I shouldn’t have bothered you.
JOHN: (smiling) It’s no bother, Boss. Anytime you want to talk, I’m here.
PAUL nods, then turns and walks away. JOHN watches him go, then looks up at the sky, a peaceful expression on his face.
FADE OUT.
Scene 7
INT. COURTHOUSE – DAY
JOHN COFFEY sits in the courtroom, his eyes downcast. PAUL EDGECOMB, the head guard, watches from the back of the room.
The JUDGE clears his throat and addresses the jury.
JUDGE:
Ladies and gentlemen, we have heard testimony from the witnesses and the defense. It is now up to you to decide whether John Coffey is guilty or not guilty of the crimes he has been accused of.
The jury files out of the room, and John looks up at Paul.
JOHN:
You believe me, don’t you, boss?
PAUL:
I do believe you, John.
John smiles faintly, then looks away. Paul’s eyes well up with tears.
Later, the jury returns with their verdict: not guilty. John is a free man.
Outside the courthouse, a crowd has gathered. John hesitates, then steps out into the sunshine. He is surrounded by reporters and well-wishers.
REPORTER 1:
Mr. Coffey, how does it feel to be a free man?
JOHN:
It feels… it feels like a miracle.
REPORTER 2:
Do you have any plans for the future?
John turns to Paul, who nods at him.
JOHN:
I do have plans. I’m gonna go see my friend Mr. Jingles.
The reporters push in closer, but Paul steps between them and John.
PAUL:
That’s all for now, folks. Let the man breathe.
Paul leads John away from the crowd, and they get into a car.
JOHN:
Thank you, boss. Thank you for believing in me.
PAUL:
I always did, John. I always knew there was something special about you.
John leans his head back against the seat and closes his eyes, a faint smile on his lips.
FADE OUT.
Scene 8
INT. NURSING HOME – NIGHT
We find an old PAUL EDGECOMB sitting on his bed in a dimly lit room. He is lost in thought and seems to be struggling with something. Suddenly, he startles and sits upright as if he’s seen a ghost.
PAUL (whispering to himself)
Am I dreaming or is this real?
The figure of a man appears behind Paul. It’s JOHN COFFEY, looking exactly as he did when Paul last saw him.
JOHN
Paul, I’ve come to bring you redemption.
PAUL
(stunned)
John, is it really you?
JOHN
(smiling gently)
Yes, Paul. I’ve been sent back to help you make amends for your mistakes.
Paul stares at John in disbelief, unsure if he’s losing his mind or if this is really happening.
PAUL
(voice quivering)
What do you mean? How can you help me?
JOHN
(sitting down next to Paul)
You’ve lived a long life, Paul, but you’re not at peace. I’m here to help you find that peace, to guide you towards redemption.
PAUL
(tears in his eyes)
I don’t know if I can be redeemed. I’ve done terrible things.
JOHN
(grasping Paul’s hand)
Everyone deserves a chance at redemption, Paul. Let me help you find yours.
Paul and John sit in silence for a moment, both lost in thought. Finally, Paul speaks up.
PAUL
What do I need to do?
JOHN
(looking at him with compassion)
It won’t be easy, Paul. You’ll have to confront your mistakes, face them head-on.
PAUL
(shakily)
I’m ready. I have to make things right.
JOHN
(nodding)
I’m glad to hear that, Paul. Let’s get started.
The room fades to black as John and Paul begin their journey towards redemption.
Scene 9
INT. NURSING HOME – NIGHT
Paul Edgecomb, an old man in his 90s, lies in his bed, staring at the ceiling. Suddenly, he sits up, his eyes wide open. In front of him stands John Coffey, the man he had executed decades ago.
PAUL
John? Is that really you?
JOHN COFFEY
(smiling)
It’s me, boss. I’m back.
Paul looks at John in amazement, and then bursts into tears. John moves closer to him and places his hand on Paul’s forehead.
JOHN COFFEY
(calmly)
It’s okay, boss. I’m not here to hurt you. I’m here to help you.
Paul looks up at John, his eyes filled with confusion.
PAUL
What do you mean?
JOHN COFFEY
(pointing to the window)
Look outside, boss.
Paul turns his head and looks out the window. He sees a group of people gathered outside, holding candles and singing hymns.
JOHN COFFEY (CONT’D)
They’re here for you, boss. They want you to make things right.
Paul looks back at John, his eyes welling up with tears.
PAUL
What can I do?
JOHN COFFEY
You can tell the truth, boss. You can tell them what really happened.
Paul nods slowly, his eyes filled with determination.
PAUL
I will.
John smiles at Paul and then fades away into the darkness. Paul lies back down on his bed, his mind racing with thoughts.
PAUL (V.O.)
It was time to make things right. Time to tell the truth. Time to seek redemption.
The scene fades to black.
