K. Maloney Review

A film genre which many a director had a shot at but none could reach this level of style and perfection. The director of this film Frank Darabont sets a high standard for future movie's about the same, if of course any director/producer dares to do such a movie about this genre after the fine job of Darabont. Essentially it is about Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) who has been accused of a double murder, Andy's wife and lover. Life imprisonment follows and this is where this wonderful story begins.


One of the worst things happen to him in prison, he attracts the attention of the local homosexuals and sodomites. However, apart from this, Andy's life is different, he seems to be free from the surrounding turmoil of this ferocious jail. He has the idiosyncrasies of a carefree man. Red(Freeman) is the narrator of the film and comments on Andy's life, "Walks around as if he hadn't a care in the world". Andy and Red share a few words now and again but it takes a while before Red befriends him. When he does a great friendship is born. One that lasts, one that is caring, one that is true, one that the viewer wants to last.


This film has a classic atmosphere of initial foreboding and finally familiarity associated with this type of genre. A film that seemed to be somewhat overlook by many. (in high places that is) Ask anyone that has seen this film and listen carefully to their response, It will be something along the untarnished lines of… " It's a classic", … "Brilliant". The thing with this film, is that no matter how many times you see it, and you see an advertisement that it's going to be on this evening on channel X. Then you will say " ahh good" because it's a film genre that attracts and this one is done so well. The very way in which the film is narrated adds some underlying powerful tone, It is a tone of dogmatism yet it has ease and wisdom. (I know it sounds paradoxical). Though wise, Red seems to lack hope, something which Andy has plenty of, which may (Andy believes) lead to his 'Redemption'. I would confidently say that the greatest respect grows in the audience for Red more than any other prisoner in the film.


For a very short time we see the outside world, a supermarket. It's then that we realize how deep we, the audience, have been pulled down into the prison life. It just shows you how well constructed the film is. The Shawshank Redemption is a true classic. A film for all. A film of great friendship, institutionalization, terror, unparalleled story-telling and immense joy. Go and buy this film. Yes, BUY.

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