An absolute classic Stephen King adaptation is on TV night

Perfect Boxing Day viewing.

As well as being classic books in their own right, Stephen King’s writing has provided the inspiration for some of the greatest movies of all time. He is the man behind such iconic horror movies as The Shining, Carrie and this year’s IT.

But it’s not just the scary stuff. Stephen King books were also the basis of beloved heartstring-pullers like Stand By Me and The Shawshank Redemption. And a slightly lesser-known King adaption that covers similar subject matter to The Shawshank Redemption is on TV tonight, and is a must-see for any fans of that film if they haven’t already seen it.

The Green Mile stars Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan, and is on More4 at 9pm tonight (or 10pm on More+1). Like The Shawshank Redemption, it’s a moving prison-set drama set over several decades, and also directed by Frank Darabont, but this time with a magical twist. Tom Hanks is as brilliant as he always is as a prison guard who befriends a death row inmate who is convict of a horrible crime, yet appears to also have a mysterious gift.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ki4haFrqSrw

It’s a wonderful film - but also a very long one, clocking in at just over three hours. Which makes it perfect viewing for Boxing Day. Instead of squabbling with you family or trying to play Monopoly, just make a massive turkey sandwich and settle in. And get a box of tissues as well, you’ll need them.

The Green Mile is on More4 at 9pm, (and More4+1 at 10pm)