Shawshank Redemption- Prison Film is Redeemed by Quality ****

Rating: 10/10 (26 January 2011)

An outstanding film dealing with prisons as seen by several prisoners. Many social problems are discussed here. The picture earned a well-deserved best picture Oscar nomination. It certainly should have tied with the winner, the equally good "Forrest Gump."
Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman etched unforgettable performances as prisoners charged with murder. The film shows what prison life is all about. Subjects dealing with prison survival, brutality, corruption and ultimate redemption are well shown.
As the corrupt, insane warden invoking religion to justify his actions, Mr. Gunton gives a worthy performance.
This is a film of rare power. James Whitmore was equally memorable as a prisoner who was unable to adjust to the outside after his parole following a 50 year stint. This shows that people who have been incarcerated for such a long period, need some sort of readjustment training before they rejoin society. For Whitmore, freedom meant ultimate doom.
Politics is also depicted in a negative way in this gritty film. This is a memorable viewing experience for audiences.