Even though ‘The Convicts’ went largely unnoticed when it was released in theaters in 1994, Frank Darabont’s prison drama (‘The Green Mile’) has gradually become an absolute classic and is now one of the greatest films of all time. Responsible for this is not only the atmospheric, extremely compelling production, but also Tim Robbins in the lead role, who eventually catapulted himself into Hollywood’s A-League with his portrayal of Andy Dufresne.
“The Condemned”, based on Stephen King’s novella “Spring Awakening: Pin-up”, published in this country in the short story collection “Spring, Summer, Autumn and Death”, could have been a completely different movie. Because before Tim Robbins got the lead role in the masterpiece, another name was already being considered for the role of Andy Dufresne: “Top Gun” star Tom Cruise! Naturally, this would have made ‘The Condemned’ a hit at the box office, but could it really keep up with Tim Robbins’ delicate performance? Who knows…
That Tom Cruise waived “The Condemned” was loud because he was simply not interested in collaborating with the then relatively unknown Frank Darabont – although he really liked the script. For Cruise, a starring role in the prison epic would only have been possible if Rob Reiner directed it. In addition to directing Stand By Me, an equally critically acclaimed King adaptation, he also collaborated with Cruise on the gripping legal thriller A Matter of Honor (1992).
In the end, Frank Darabont also insisted on retaining creative control and finally put his modified screenplay into practice. He took a risk in doing so – not least because he was barely able to pay his rent at the time. But Darabont actually wanted to direct ‘The Condemned’ himself, because it was his absolute dream project. Even though the drama disappointed at the box office, Darabont went on to become one of the most sought-after directors of his time. He later staged two more King templates with “The Green Mile” and “Der Nebel”.