One of the greatest movies in film history.

Rating: 10/10 (17 June 2003)

The Shawshank Redemption is probably the most widely loved movie in all of Western culture. It's fleshed out characters give it the uncanny ability to deeply touch most of the people who watch it. We relate to Freeman's character who has lost hope in society. Robbins' is the friend who redeems us and gives hope back. Gunton, who plays Warden Norton, is one of the most overlooked villains of all time. He makes the greatest villain because he is the most realistic and relatable. He isn't a crazy murderer, he is a corrupt religious official. I believe this movie gets better when you have already seen it and know what happens. Seeing the wardern get what's coming to him is consistently satisfying. And of course, the famous beach scene leaves me on a high every time. 11/10